A Retrospective Look at Long-Term Adolescent Recovery: Clinicians Talk to Researchers

Abstract

The purpose of the present article is to identify factors associated with long-term recovery for adolescents. A group of 14 young adults were given semistructured in-depth (one to two hour) interviews. The subjects had been in recovery for two to 16 years. Length of stay in treatment, involvement with self-help groups, psychotropic medication, family support, peer support, spirituality, and other factors were identified as helpful for long-term recovery. A major limitation of this inquiry is that it does not meet minimum standards for research. It is hoped, however, that this inquiry can inform directions for further research.

Keywords:

• adolescent
• outcomes
• recovery
• substance abuse