Psychosocial interventions for patients with alcohol use disorder: A systematic review

Abstract

Purpose: The aims of this study were to identify the psychosocial interventions for patients with alcohol use disorder and to assess the effects of those interventions. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, KoreaMed, KMBASE, RISS, KISS, Science ON, and DBpia to identify studies reported in English or Korean from 2012 to 2021. Results: From the 4,051 studies extracted, 14 studies were selected for review. The majority of the psychosocial interventions were focused on cognitive therapy or cognitive-behavior therapy. Most of the studies reported that the interventions made positive effects on alcohol consumptions. In addition, the psychosocial interventions for patients with alcohol use disorder were effective on coping, support, alcohol avoidance behavior, and hostility bias. Most of the studies reporting positive effects of psychosocial intervention programs applied computers, mobile phones, or similar electronic devices. Conclusion: The findings of this systematic review suggest that the use of computers or mobile devices in psychosocial intervention programs will be effective. It can be said that this systematic review reflects the current trends involving the development of information and communication technology. This systematic review can provide basic data for establishing evidence and suggesting future directions for psychosocial interventions for patients with alcohol use disorder.