Certain concepts have a demonstrated basis for aiding recovery from dangerous alcohol or substance use, according to an analysis of scientific literature since 1990. Self-efficacy (a belief in one's ability to achieve a goal), social support, and managing cravings are among the treatment elements best supported by evidence. Effective treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD) and other substance use disorders (SUDs) depends on understanding how human behaviors change and incorporating that knowledge into clinical practice .
An ongoing research effort continues to investigate varying treatment approaches and how they relate to recovery outcomes, but those findings have not been well synthesized into a useful format. For the new review published in Alcohol: Clinical & Experimental Research , researchers from around the U.S.
reviewed published studies, identified the treatment elements best supported by data, and evaluated their potential as key factors in behavior change. The researchers drew on existing study design criteria for validating conclusions about treatment elements. The researchers explored reviews of studies published between 2008 and 2023 involving AUD and SUD treatments and the effects on substance use and related outcomes in adults.
Three constructs involved in treatment were the most well-supported by data from 11 studies: self-efficacy, social support, and craving (coping skills, also well-supported, did not suit the current review process). They then reviewed 4.