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Published: 16 September 2025

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Aim: To explore the influence of gender and time in addiction recovery on engagement in meaningful activities and the reduction of harmful behaviours among the recovery population in Sweden. 

Methods: Participants were recruited through social media, recovery and treatment services, and snowballing, resulting in a sample of 110 individuals who consider themselves in addiction recovery for more than 3 months. Bivariate analyses were used to explore gender differences in relation to personal characteristics and current utilization of recovery support. The relationship with time in recovery was examined for three recovery stages (early (5 years)) in relation to meaningful engagement and detrimental activities. The Strengths and Barriers Recovery Scale (SABRS) was used to calculate changes in recovery-related well-being. Specifically, we assessed the overall difference between reported strengths and barriers - referred to as the “SABRS change score” - and compared these by gender and stage of recovery. 

Results: The data indicate variations in recovery experiences across genders and stages of recovery, with women reporting more strengths in recovery and a greater change in recovery strengths from active addiction to recovery. The findings affirm the progressive character of recovery, illustrating how prolonged periods in recovery correlate with decreased negative activities (barriers) and increased meaningful activities (recovery strengths). 

Conclusions: These findings provide significant insights into recovery pathways in Sweden. As well as providing empirical support for defining addiction recovery as a process over time that is associated with enhanced well-being and increased (community) engagement and citizenship, recovery support services that sustain recovery in the long-term will result in reduced harmful behaviours and increases in meaningful activities.

(Complete Research: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/14550725251357221)

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Published: 10 September 2025

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As Alcoholics Anonymous celebrates its 90th anniversary this year, questions surrounding the effectiveness of AA continue to shape discussions about alcohol recovery methods. Since its founding in Ohio in 1935, the fellowship has grown into a worldwide movement with millions of active members, yet its approach remains both influential and controversial in modern addiction treatment.

The Foundation of Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous operates on the principle that members must self-identify as “alcoholics” and commit to total abstinence from alcohol. The programme centres around the famous 12 steps, which guide participants through a journey of acceptance and personal transformation. All meetings are guided by AA’s 12 traditions and texts such as the “Big Book”, encouraging self-awareness, spiritual growth, and connection with fellow members.

The fundamental anonymity principle that defines AA makes it impossible to quantify exact recovery rates, creating ongoing debates about the effectiveness of AA in scientific and medical communities.

Contrasting Approaches: Alcoholism vs Alcohol Use Disorder

One of the most significant tensions surrounding Alcoholics Anonymous relates to how it conceptualises drinking problems. AA’s approach treats “alcoholism” as a lifelong condition affecting people who are categorically different from other drinkers. As the Big Book states, “the delusion that we are like other people, or presently may be, has to be smashed.”

This perspective contrasts sharply with contemporary scientific understanding. Modern medical classifications use terms like “alcohol use disorder,” recognising drinking problems as existing on a continuum rather than as distinct categories. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) distinguishes between mild, moderate, and severe alcohol use disorders, acknowledging that many people with drinking issues fall far from traditional “alcoholic” stereotypes.

The Powerlessness Principle and Its Implications

Central to Alcoholics Anonymous is the first step: “We admitted we were powerless over alcohol — that our lives had become unmanageable.” This concept of powerlessness defines AA’s approach but conflicts with contemporary addiction science, which recognises that control over alcohol consumption can vary significantly depending on context, environment, and circumstances.

Modern treatment approaches, particularly motivational interviewing, regard ambivalence about change as normal rather than viewing reluctance to accept powerlessness as “denial.” This represents a fundamental difference in how the effectiveness of AA is measured against evidence-based therapeutic interventions.

The Abstinence Debate

Perhaps the most contentious aspect of Alcoholics Anonymous is its unwavering commitment to total abstinence. Whilst lifelong sobriety remains AA’s cornerstone, decades of research demonstrate that many people achieve recovery through controlled drinking approaches. This evidence challenges the universal applicability of AA’s methods and raises questions about the effectiveness of AA for individuals with less severe drinking problems.

Studies consistently show that controlled drinking can be a viable outcome for many people, particularly those with milder alcohol use disorders. However, widespread scepticism towards this approach persists, largely attributed to the long-standing dominance of “alcoholism” models promoted by organisations like Alcoholics Anonymous.

Identity and Stigma: The Double-Edged Sword

The requirement for members to identify as “alcoholics” creates complex dynamics around stigma and self-perception. Whilst some AA members successfully challenge stigma by fostering an “alcoholic identity” as a mark of strength and recovery commitment, this experience isn’t universal. Research indicates that mandatory self-labelling can become a barrier for some individuals, questioning the effectiveness of AA for diverse populations.

The broader concern relates to people who may never consider themselves “alcoholics” despite having significant drinking problems. This particularly affects individuals whose alcohol use doesn’t match common stereotypes of “alcoholism,” potentially preventing them from recognising problems or seeking appropriate help.

Scientific Evidence on Alcoholics Anonymous Effectiveness

The most comprehensive analysis of Alcoholics Anonymous came from a 2020 Cochrane review examining 27 studies involving 10,565 participants. The review compared 12-step facilitation treatment and AA engagement against other therapeutic approaches, finding that AA “may be at least as effective as other treatments” for most outcomes.

Notably, the review found that 12-step facilitation was associated with higher rates of continuous abstinence (periods of uninterrupted sobriety). However, this didn’t necessarily translate to more total abstinent days over 12-month follow-up periods, raising questions about the effectiveness of AA beyond its primary abstinence-focused metrics.

Critics, including addiction researchers Stanton Peele and Professor Nick Heather, challenged both the study’s limitations and interpretations. They suggested that the focus on continuous abstinence might be problematic, potentially contributing to the “abstinence violation effect,” where belief in necessary total abstinence can trigger heavier drinking following any alcohol consumption.

How Alcoholics Anonymous Works When It Does

Research into the mechanisms behind Alcoholics Anonymous success identifies several factors that align with broader recovery principles. These include the development of recovery capital through social, personal, and cultural resources, which enhance motivation and self-efficacy whilst forming new social networks and recovery-focused identity.

Alcoholics Anonymous effectively helps members transition from social networks that may have facilitated drinking to ones explicitly focused on sobriety. The fellowship provides meaning and purpose conducive to psychological wellbeing, with some members benefiting specifically from spirituality-based aspects of the programme.

Social network transformation represents a critical factor in recovery success, and Alcoholics Anonymous membership offers one pathway to achieve this, though not the only one.

Modern Challenges and Limitations

Ninety years on, Alcoholics Anonymous remains a dominant force in recovery landscapes, significantly shaping public understanding of alcohol problems through its “alcoholism” paradigm. However, its approach clearly isn’t suitable for everyone, particularly those with less severe issues, individuals uninterested in abstinence, or those uncomfortable with spiritual elements or self-labelling requirements.

The effectiveness of AA becomes questionable when considering the broader spectrum of alcohol problems. Many heavy drinkers use “alcoholism” stereotypes to contrast against their own drinking patterns, potentially preventing problem recognition through a process called “othering.”

Future Considerations

Questions arise about whether Alcoholics Anonymous bears responsibility for considering these broader implications. AA’s tenth tradition states: “Alcoholics Anonymous has no opinion on outside issues; hence the AA name ought never be drawn into public controversy.” This suggests that responsibility for addressing limitations of “alcoholism” models may lie with professionals, policymakers, and media rather than AA itself.

Alcoholics Anonymous highlights one valuable recovery route for a subset of people experiencing alcohol-related harm, but alternatives are essential. Alcohol problems extend well beyond those fitting within the “alcoholism” paradigm, requiring diverse approaches to meet varied needs.

Conclusion

As Alcoholics Anonymous marks its 90th anniversary, its influence on addiction recovery remains undeniable. Whilst research supports the effectiveness of AA for many members, particularly in achieving continuous abstinence, significant questions remain about its universal applicability.

The tension between AA’s “alcoholism” model and contemporary alcohol use disorder concepts reflects broader challenges in addiction treatment. Recognising these limitations shouldn’t be considered criticism of Alcoholics Anonymous but acknowledgement that comprehensive alcohol problem addressing requires multiple approaches.

For individuals whose needs align with AA’s philosophy and methods, the fellowship continues providing valuable support and community. However, expanding understanding of recovery options ensures that people across the spectrum of alcohol problems can access appropriate, evidence-based support tailored to their specific circumstances and goals. (Source: WRD NEWS)

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Published: 05 September 2025

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The opioid crisis continues to devastate communities across Canada and beyond, with recent research highlighting alarming treatment retention failures that underscore why prevention must be our primary defence. A comprehensive study examining opioid agonist therapy amongst First Nations people in Ontario reveals shocking statistics that every family, educator, and community leader must understand.

The Stark Reality of Opioid Addiction Treatment

New research tracking nearly 18,000 treatment episodes reveals a disturbing truth: prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to opioid addiction. The study found that:

• Half of all individuals discontinued their life-saving medication within just 42-71 days
• Over 70% of people failed to maintain treatment for a full year
• Treatment success rates have actually declined over time

These statistics aren’t just numbers—they represent thousands of lives disrupted, families torn apart, and communities struggling with addiction’s devastating impact.

Why Opioid Addiction Prevention Must Be Our Priority

The research demonstrates that even with the best medical interventions available, maintaining recovery from opioid addiction remains extraordinarily challenging. This reality makes opioid addiction prevention absolutely crucial for protecting our young people and communities.

The Treatment Retention Crisis

The study revealed several factors that made treatment failure more likely:

• Living with multiple health conditions
• Previous exposure to opioids
• Social isolation and lack of community support
• Geographic barriers to accessing ongoing care

These findings highlight how complex opioid addiction becomes once established, reinforcing why we must focus our efforts on stopping addiction before it starts.

Building Strong Opioid Addiction Prevention Strategies

Effective prevention requires understanding the pathways that lead to opioid addiction and implementing comprehensive strategies to block them:

Education and Awareness

• Comprehensive drug education programmes in schools
• Community awareness campaigns about prescription opioid risks
• Training for healthcare providers on responsible prescribing practices

Community-Based Prevention

• Youth engagement programmes that provide positive alternatives
• Family support networks that identify risk factors early
• Workplace education about opioid misuse dangers

Policy and Environmental Changes

• Stricter controls on opioid prescribing and monitoring
• Enhanced security measures for prescription medications
• Community policies that reduce access to illegal opioids

The Economic and Social Case for Prevention:

The research findings make a compelling economic argument for investing in opioid addiction prevention rather than treatment alone. When treatment success rates remain disappointingly low despite significant healthcare investment, prevention becomes not just morally imperative but financially prudent.

Communities that invest in robust prevention programmes see:

• Reduced healthcare costs over time
• Lower crime rates associated with drug-seeking behaviour
• Stronger family units and social cohesion
• Better educational and employment outcomes for young people

A Prevention-First Approach:

The sobering treatment retention statistics from this research should serve as a wake-up call for policymakers, educators, and community leaders. We cannot afford to wait until addiction has taken hold—we must act decisively to prevent it.

Prevention is worth a pound of cure, and when it comes to opioid addiction, this couldn’t be more true. Every young person we protect from initial opioid exposure is a life potentially saved from the devastating cycle of addiction and treatment failure.

The time for action is now. We must strengthen our prevention efforts, support our communities, and ensure that prevention remains our primary defence against the ongoing opioid crisis.

(Source: JAMA Network)

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Published: 13 August 2025

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Nearly 80 per cent of South Australians back proposed South Australia alcohol reforms designed to reduce family violence and protect vulnerable communities from escalating alcohol-related harm.

Strong Public Mandate for Legislative Change

Polling commissioned by the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE) reveals overwhelming public support for stronger regulations on alcohol sales and home delivery services. The comprehensive survey reinforces calls for the South Australian Government to prioritise community safety through decisive legislative action.

Furthermore, the data demonstrates that residents want robust measures to regulate online alcohol sales and home delivery systems. Consequently, this public sentiment strengthens the case for implementing the proposed Liquor Licensing (Miscellaneous) Amendment Bill 2025.

Clear Community Priorities Emerge

The polling data reveals compelling statistics about public attitudes towards alcohol harm prevention measures:

• 77.4 per cent believe government should prioritise harm reduction over alcohol industry profits when drafting liquor legislation
• More than two-thirds (68.8 per cent) support limiting alcohol home delivery to between 10am and 10pm as a violence prevention measure
• Almost three-quarters (73.5 per cent) endorse a mandatory two-hour safety pause between online alcohol orders and home delivery

Expert Commentary on Reform Necessity

FARE CEO Ayla Chorley emphasised the critical nature of these proposed changes. “Here is a clear example where government can make simple changes to keep women and children safe,” she stated. Moreover, the polling demonstrates that South Australians want their government to implement these essential South Australia alcohol reforms to reduce alcohol-related harm.

Additionally, Chorley highlighted the groundbreaking nature of the proposed legislation. “The proposed legislation is the first of its kind in Australia and an opportunity for the South Australian Government to lead the way in reducing gendered violence,” she explained.

Evidence-Based Approach to Public Safety

The draft legislation incorporates several evidence-based alcohol harm prevention measures, including:

• Implementation of a two-hour mandatory safety pause between ordering and delivery
• Restricting delivery times to 10.00am – 10.00pm daily
• Establishing harm reduction as the paramount objective in liquor legislation

Importantly, these reforms follow National Cabinet’s response to the Rapid Review of Prevention Approaches to End Gender-Based Violence. The review specifically identified alcohol as a key factor in escalating domestic and family violence incidents.

National Leadership Opportunity

All First Ministers have agreed to review state and territory liquor laws to prioritise violence prevention against women and children. Therefore, South Australia has the opportunity to lead national efforts in implementing meaningful legislative change.

The proliferation of largely unregulated online alcohol sales and rapid delivery services has significantly amplified harm risks. Consequently, South Australia alcohol reforms represent a crucial step towards addressing these emerging challenges.

Compelling Statistical Evidence

The urgency of reform becomes clear when examining domestic violence statistics. Alcohol involvement appears in one in three intimate partner violence incidents and one in four family violence incidents. These figures underscore the critical importance of implementing comprehensive alcohol harm prevention measures.

“We can’t wait any longer for meaningful legislative change to protect women and children in our community,” Chorley emphasised. Additionally, she acknowledged potential industry resistance whilst expressing optimism about government action.

Research Methodology and Credibility

The polling research was conducted online by Pure Profile between 9 and 22 May 2025. The study surveyed 1,013 people aged over 18 residing throughout metropolitan and regional South Australia. Importantly, the sample maintains representativeness across age, gender, and location demographics.

Future Impact and Implementation

Chorley expressed confidence that strong public support will galvanise government action on liquor law changes. “Passing these laws will set the standard for jurisdictions right across Australia and make a real difference in the lives of countless women and children,” she concluded.

The proposed South Australia alcohol reforms represent a significant opportunity to establish national leadership in violence prevention whilst protecting vulnerable community members from escalating alcohol-related harm.

(Source: WRDNews)