Social recovery in substance use disorder: A metasynthesis of qualitative studies

Abstract

Issues In substance use disorder, connection to social communities plays a significant role in the recovery process. The aim here has been to identify and synthesise the qualitative research examining the process of social recovery from a first‐person perspective and how social communities assist in this process. Approach Metasynthesis using the following databases: CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, SocIndex and Web of Science. The search returned 6913 original articles, of which 18 met the following criteria: examining the experience of social recovery from a first‐person perspective and how social communities support this process, age of 18+, recovery of at least 12 months, in an English‐language peer‐reviewed journal. Review protocol registration: PROSPERO (CRD42020190159). Key Findings The persons in recovery emphasised communities that they perceived as being safe and non‐stigmatising. These are qualities that contributed to positive self‐change, and these communities were perceived as suitable arenas in which to confront responsibility and trust. Additionally, participants found that their relationship skills were improving due to the new social bonds forged in these communities. A sense of citizenship was gained along with a regaining of social dignity through voluntary work and giving back to society. Implications The pivotal role of the social community identified in this review underscores the importance of recognising and supporting persons in recovery's needs when connecting with such communities Conclusion We propose a four‐stage model to guide research into social recovery from a first‐person perspective and how social communities support this process.

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“…However, a study investigating the 5-year reliability of reported alcohol consumption found that alcohol consumption may actually be more accurately recalled retrospectively compared with presently. 21 Other surveyed-based retrospective studies support the methods of this study and the reliability of retrospective recall of substance use. 22,23 Because of the sensitive nature of questions about relapsing and SUD treatment, it is also possible that our data represent an underreporting of the actual records.…”

“…Our findings are limited by the retrospective nature of this study, which increases the risk of recall bias from our participants. However, a study investigating the 5-year reliability of reported alcohol consumption found that alcohol consumption may actually be more accurately recalled retrospectively compared with presently 21 . Other surveyed-based retrospective studies support the methods of this study and the reliability of retrospective recall of substance use 22,23 .…”

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“…Madde kullanım bozukluğunda, olumlu toplumsal bağların iyileşme üzerinde önemli rol oynadığı belirtilmektedir. Arınma sürecindeki bireylerde, düşük damgalanma hissi ve yüksek güvenlik hissi toplumsal aidiyet ile ilişkilendirilmiştir (37). DS grubunda, düşük toplumsal aidiyet, riskli davranışlarda bulunan akranlara sahip olma ve/veya ebeveynlerden yetersiz destek alma gibi ek olumsuz psikososyal faktörlerin maddeyi deneme veya sorunlu kullanım üzerinde daha fazla etkili olabileceği öne sürülmüştür (38).…”