Editorial

The second 2021 issue of Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly, highlights a dedicated special section on the Native American Alcohol Use Disorder experience. Our guest editor, Dr. Suzan McVicker, an expert in Native American research, opens the section with an editorial. Articles from Blume, Egan, Smith, McVicker and Pourier, and their respective colleagues, elaborate unique aspects of AUD and recovery in contrast to Western perspectives.

Following the special topic section are two articles that address psychological issues influencing AUD recovery. The article by Shupp focuses on the relationship of suicidality and surrender, the latter of which is crucial for successful long-term recovery. Findings from research by Brown and colleagues support “that self-esteem, and correlates of self-esteem, may represent a bundle of intrapersonal psychosocial variables that should be considered as essential constructs within recovery-related research, therapeutic technique, and treatment outcome expectancies”.

Our final section focuses on women’s issues, including gender specific treatment approaches and special considerations for formerly incarcerated women and women in abusive marriages. Welsh, and colleagues, conclude from the results of a pilot study that young adult women may benefit from same-age Women’s Recovery Groups. Housing and associated relationships following incarceration are presented as a multi-level model by Soto-Nevarez and colleagues. Ager, et al report the impact of AUD in married men on their spouses. While there were no significant differences in general mental health of the spouses, a significantly higher level of alcohol-related distress was observed in women.

The ATQ addresses advances in treatment and recovery, as well as features reports and experiences of special populations and professionals working in the field. As always, we welcome your comments and suggestions.