Effectiveness of a peer‐support community in addiction recovery: participation as intervention

Abstract

The main purpose of the study was to determine whether a peer-

“Once you’ve been there, you’re always recovering”: exploring experiences, outcomes, and benefits of substance misuse recovery

“…This finding is unsurprising, given that peer support features heavily in policy recommendations relating to substance misuse, and the integral role of peers and support networks has been heavily evidenced (e.g. Boisvert, Martin, Grosek and Clarie 2008;Laudet and Humphries 2013). Mutual aid is recognised as one of the most popular peer support programmes for individuals with substance use problems (ACMD, 2013;Tonigan, Bogenschutz and Miller 2006), and evidence shows that the peer support found in mutual aid and recovery communities can be particularly effective in supporting the development of social capital (White, 2007).…”

Where Did She Go? The Transformation of Self-Esteem, Self-Identity, and Mental Well-Being among Women Who Have Experienced Intimate Partner Violence

“…Showing women, by example, that it is possible to shed the old identity of victim and gain strength through transformation and support would offer positive role models for women grappling with the paralysis that often accompanies IPV. For example, consider programs that integrate those living with or leaving IPV with women with past lived experience who can help women to understand the process of change and support this change in a nurturing environment; a relationship similar to peer support models for those with addictions and mental health problems (Boisvert, Martin, Grosek, & Clarie, 2008;Campbell, Sullivan, & Davidson, 1995;Davidson, Bellamy, Guy, & Miller, 2012;Davidson, Chinman, Sells, & Rowe, 2006;Mead, Hilton, & Curtis, 2001).…”

Psychosocial Occupational Therapy Interventions for Substance-Use Disorders: A Narrative Review

“…Seven involved clients seeking treatment through a type of residential program (e.g., supportive housing community, halfway house, recovery center; Boisvert, 2004;Boisvert, Martin, Grosek, & Clarie, 2008;Darko-Mensah, 2011;Martin, Bliven, & Boisvert, 2008;Peloquin, 2010;Ussher, McCusker, Morrow, & Donaghy, 2000;White, 2007), while the other three treatment settings involved an outpatient psychiatric facility (Cardinale, Malacari, Broggi, Savignano, & Fisher, 2014), an inpatient forensic psychiatric ward (Stevens, Redfearn, & Tse, 2003), and a prison (Tayer, 2004). Study size varied (n ¼ 1 to 75), along with length, frequency, and duration of intervention.…”

“…All studies focused on identifying life skill needs of participants to remain abstinent from their substance of choice, providing individuals with personal tools to prevent relapse (Boisvert, 2004;Boisvert et al, 2008;Cardinale et al, 2014;Darko-Mensah, 2011;Martin et al, 2008;Peloquin, 2010;Stevens et al, 2003;Tayer, 2004;Ussher et al, 2000;White, 2007). Of these, three reported additional treatment therapies (e.g., 12-step programs, individual counseling, and mental health services) being provided to clients at the stated facility, while simultaneously receiving occupational therapy treatment (Boisvert, 2004;Boisvert et al, 2008;Peloquin, 2010).…”