Idiosyncratic patterns of drinking in long-term successful controlled drinkers

Abstract

A historical summary is given of the clinical application of assessment and treatment procedures emanating from the new model of problem drinking that was emerging in the 1970s contemporaneously with the opening of the Windsor Clinic in Liverpool. Learning from the sometimes unexpected long-term outcomes of treated clients has provided invaluable feedback for this service. Controlled drinking is a goal choice selected by most clients at treatment entry but is a long-term successful drinking status found less commonly than abstinence. A sample of 10 clients who have been successful in maintaining controlled drinking after treatment for an average of 5 years is described. Common strategies that these individuals have adopted – including an initial period of abstinence, maintaining regular attendance at the agency, alcohol consumption levels considerably less than recommended limits and avoiding distilled spirits and solitary drinking – appear to be important.

• Alcohol treatment
• controlled drinking
• long-term outcome