Thus, in part, the benefits of help we identified alcoholism are due to self-selection and motivation to obtain help, as well as to obtaining help per se. We also focused on individuals who had already recognized their alcohol-related problems and initiated a search for help. Accordingly, our findings on lower remission and higher relapse rates among individuals who do not obtain help quickly may not generalize to individuals who have alcohol-related problems but have not sought help.
Online Support Groups

In a meta-analysis of alcoholism treatment outcome studies, average short-term abstinence rates were 21% for untreated individuals in waiting-list, no-treatment or placebo conditions, compared to 43% for treated individuals 2,7. Twelve-step program Similarly, Weisner, Matzger & Kaskutas 8 found that treated alcohol-dependent individuals had higher 1-year non-problem use outcomes (40% versus 23%) than did untreated individuals. Overall, these studies suggest that, especially among individuals who recognize their alcohol problems, treated individuals achieve higher remission rates than do untreated individuals.
Age Demographics and Trends
- We certainly need to learn more about what factors protect such people from relapse, and what factors predispose them to returning to addictive use.
- Before experiencing long-lasting healing, some people in recovery go through numerous setbacks.
- This means that when people with the disorder are abstaining from alcohol, they are still at increased risk of resuming unhealthy alcohol consumption, even if years have passed since their last drink.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) combines behavioral therapy with medications to treat substance use disorders.
- With these qualifications, the present study adds to evidence that non-abstinent AUD recovery is possible and can be maintained for up to 10 years following treatment.
You may also experience what is commonly called sobriety fatigue, which refers to the overall exhaustion that may occur as a result of the emotional and physical stress of staying sober. So, it’s extra helpful to have a support network available to you when you need it. A therapist can help you learn new coping skills, develop new thinking patterns, and address any co-occurring mental health conditions that may make recovery more difficult. You may also need to change your route to work or home in order to avoid any triggers, or people, places, or things that make you want to use drugs or drink again. Depending on the type of dependency, PAWS can last from six months to two years after you stop using drugs or alcohol. The more tools you have for identifying triggers, coping with stress, and managing your new sober life, the easier you’ll prevent relapse.
How to Keep Sober in Recovery from Alcoholism
- It’s essential to recognize that a relapse is not merely an indicator of a personal failure; it can be part of the learning process inherent to recovery.
- We also describe plans to conduct studies of resident subgroups, such as individuals referred from the criminal justice system.
- By highlighting the data behind alcohol use disorders (AUD), this article aims to underscore both the breadth of the problem and the opportunities for meaningful change.
- People in recovery from a substance use disorder frequently have problems meeting work-related responsibilities, maintaining employment, and managing money.
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), approximately 90% of individuals who have struggled with alcohol addiction will experience at least one relapse during their lifetime. At Crest View Recovery Center, we understand that alcohol addiction can be hard to overcome. That’s why we are committed to providing each of our patients with the support and guidance they need to start a new life free from their addiction. Our highly trained counselors and medical professionals use evidence-based treatments tailored to meet each patient’s individual needs. Moreover, as societal attitudes continue to shift toward viewing alcoholism as a treatable medical condition rather than a moral failing, we can expect greater openness to seeking help. Encouraging earlier intervention, expanding treatment resources, and promoting evidence-based prevention strategies will be cornerstones of reducing alcohol-related harm for individuals, families, and communities at large.

For Loved Ones: How to Support a Loved One’s Mental Health
Ultimately, the journey to sobriety is rarely a straight path, but with each relapse, individuals can emerge with greater insight and resilience, enhancing their chances of maintaining long-term sobriety. The four D’s of relapse prevention are Delay, Distract, De-Stress, and De-Catastrophize. Each of these strategies serves a unique purpose in managing cravings and avoiding relapse risks. Recognizing these triggers allows individuals to avoid or manage them effectively.










