Personal experiences of individuals who are recovering from a drug or alcohol dependency and are involved in social-based recovery groups

Abstract

Research on addiction recovery often focuses on traditional and well-established groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous or SMART Recovery. Recently, another type of recovery group has emerged within communities. These groups are based around social activities and have not been studied in the literature. This study qualitatively identified individuals’ experiences within these groups. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 10 abstinent members of social-based groups, who had previously experienced drug or alcohol dependence. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was employed on the transcripts to try and understand the individuals’ experiences of being involved in these groups. Four themes emerged from the participants’ experiences: (a) group’s role in their recovery, (b) personal choice and flexibility in recovery experience, (c) group as an inclusive family unit, and (d) active involvement in the recovery group. These findings are discussed in relation to previous literature, and the value of these groups for recovering individuals is highlighted.

Keywords:

• Qualitative research
• recovery
• social networks
• peer networks
• mutual aid groups

Additional information

Funding

This is a Knowledge Economy Skills Scholarships supported research project. Knowledge Economy Skills Scholarships is a pan-Wales higher level skills initiative led by Bangor University on behalf of the HE sector in Wales. It is part funded by the Welsh Government's European Social Fund convergence programme for West Wales and the Valleys. The project was also supported by CAIS – a charity in North Wales that supports individuals with addictions. The funding body did not have a role in the study design, testing, data analysis or writing of the manuscript.