Why Do Those With Long-Term Substance Use Disorders Stop Abusing Substances?
Many people successfully recover from substance use disorders. Understanding the factors that contribute towards people deciding to stop using substances can help guide treatment and design interventions.
A recent study has explored the reasoning and decisions that people have made to quit substance use after a long-term substance use disorder. Eighteen participants, who reported a historical period of a problematic substance followed by an extensive period of abstinence, took part in the study.
During the interview they were asked about:
- Their thoughts on substance use when first thinking about quitting compared to now
- To what extent was it your own decision to quit and how much would you emphasize being forced to quit because of detrimental health conditions?
The explanations that participants gave as to why they made the decision to quit included:
- Experiencing harmful situations that acted as warning signs
- Pressure and concern from family members including recognising the risk of permanent disconnection
- Being able to envision a better life and feelings of hope
- Having an awareness of support options and persisting with treatment
Participants frequently admitted it was more challenging to seek help than to admit to having a problem.
Overall these results highlight the importance of advertising treatment options and encouraging family involvement. The researchers suggest that patients and practitioners will benefit from a better understanding of users’ deep motivations for seeking treatment rather than simply trying to meet the treatment programme’s goals.