Consumer Evaluation of Dual Focus Mutual Aid

Abstract

Double Trouble in Recovery (DTR) is a “dual focus,” 12 step-based mutual aid program tailored to assist recovery from co-occurring substance use and psychiatric disorders. Objective To determine consumers’ perceptions of DTR’s usefulness for their recoveries and the relationships between perceived DTR usefulness and self-help processes, self-efficacy to cope with problems in recovery, and changes in behaviors conducive to dual recovery. Methods Consumers attending DTR groups, located within a psychiatric day-treatment program, completed anonymous surveys 8 months (N=19) and 20 months (N=61) after DTR was implemented. Results DTR participants rated DTR favorably and length of DTR attendance was significantly associated with increased self-efficacy for recovery and positive changes in recovery-oriented behaviors. Perceived DTR usefulness was significantly associated with greater engagement in three specific self-help processes and increased self-efficacy for recovery; notably, these associations were independent of consumers’ overall satisfaction with the treatment program. Conclusion This study is the first to document consumers’ perceived usefulness of DTR in relation to indicators of recovery. Overall, the study provides additional evidence for the benefits of implementing consumer-led dual focus groups in treatment programs.

Risk factors for medication non-adherence among psychiatric patients with substance misuse histories

“…For patients with both psychiatric illness and current substance misuse, a practical approach to increasing social support is to encourage participation in “dual focus” self-help groups that provide support for recovery from both problems. Recent research has shown that such dual focus group participation can reduce both substance misuse and increase adherence to psychiatric medication (Magura et al, 2002; Magura, Rosenblum, Villano, Vogel, Fong, & Betzler, 2008a; Magura, Villano, Rosenblum, Vogel, & Betzler, 2008b). Thus, participation in such groups should be encouraged by mental health and addiction treatment clinicians who work with patients with co-occurring disorders.…”

Dual-Focus Mutual Aid for Co-Occurring Disorders: A Quasi-Experimental Outcome Evaluation Study

“…The apparent effectiveness of DTR for all participants, both those in the Post-DTR cohort and other CDTP patients, was studied with survey methods and is being reported separately (49).…”

GPs’ views and perspectives on patient non-adherence to treatment in primary care prior to suicide

“…This was also confirmed in this study. Strengthening services for comorbidity and dual diagnosis may improve the engagement of patients, particularly young patients, with primary and secondary care and could contribute to suicide prevention (Magura 2008;Magura et al, 2008) These findings indicate that integrated services involving better communication and collaborative care between primary care, substance misuse and mental health services may benefit patients at risk of suicide. Research suggests that broad spectrum diagnosis and concurrent therapy will lead to more positive outcomes for patients with comorbid conditions.…”