In sum, the current body of literature reflects multiple well-studied nonabstinence approaches for treating AUD and exceedingly little research testing nonabstinence treatments for drug use problems, representing a notable gap in the literature. The past 20 years has seen growing acceptance of harm reduction, evidenced in U.S. public health policy as well as SUD treatment research. Thirty-two states now have legally authorized SSPs, a number which has doubled since 2014 (Fernández-Viña et al., 2020). Regarding SUD treatment, there has been a significant increase in availability of medication for opioid use disorder, especially buprenorphine, over the past two decades (opioid agonist therapies including buprenorphine are often placed under the “umbrella” of harm reduction treatments; Alderks, 2013). Nonabstinence goals have become more widely accepted in SUD treatment in much of Europe, and evidence suggests that acceptance of controlled drinking has increased among U.S. treatment providers since the 1980s and 1990s (Rosenberg, Grant, & Davis, 2020).
For others, having alcohol only in particular situations of their choice, feels doable. Clinical hypnotherapy and moderation techniques can be highly effective alcohol abstinence vs moderation in reducing your alcohol intake and I am here to help. Many of my clients see a dramatic improvement in relation to drinking in a short space of time.
1. Review aims
By eliminating the temptation of alcohol completely, individuals can focus on their recovery journey without the constant struggle of resisting the urge to drink. This unwavering commitment to sobriety can lead to a more fulfilling life than when they were drinking alcohol, even after quitting drinking. Over the past few decades, research has demonstrated that complete abstinence isn’t always the most effective approach for treating alcohol abuse. While total abstinence is necessary in some cases, in other cases people are able to reduce their drinking to moderate levels without needing to abstain totally. For people who have not been able to maintain sobriety through Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or other 12-step programs, they may wish to consider if moderation may be a more effective path for them to take.
We identify a clear gap in research examining nonabstinence psychosocial treatment for drug use disorders and suggest that increased research attention on these interventions represents the logical next step for the field. Only a small minority of people with substance use disorders (SUDs) receive treatment. A focus on abstinence is pervasive in SUD treatment, defining success in both research and practice, and punitive measures are often imposed on those who do not abstain.
Curb Alcohol Cravings: 3 Medications and 5 Natural Remedies
These kinds of groups become a source of support from people who understand, who are looking for solidarity and hope. On the surface, moderation probably seems easier, which could be why moderation is more common. If you’re thinking about changing your relationship with alcohol, one of the first decisions you will make is whether you want to cut back or quit altogether. Resources such as SAMHSA’s National Helpline, aftercare support groups, and mutual help organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can provide invaluable support for those in recovery. These resources offer a secure and encouraging atmosphere to share stories, gain inspiration from others in similar circumstances, and foster a sense of community and responsibility in maintaining long-term sobriety. People who have had problems with alcohol in the past may want to consult a doctor or therapist for help regulating their behaviors around drinking.
- It’s already quite common to abstain in the real world; look no further than certain religions—e.g.
- The current review highlights a notable gap in research empirically evaluating the effectiveness of nonabstinence approaches for DUD treatment.
- While some may believe they can return to social drinking without consequences, the reality is that alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence can quickly spiral out of control for those with a history of alcohol use disorder.
- Our program offers expert medical support, recovery coaching, and a variety of tools and resources—all delivered 100 percent virtually.
- According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), the definition of moderate alcohol use differs for men and women.
- These powerful emotional states can put an individual’s recovery at risk, leading them to turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism.
Change in DDD was assessed by TLFBs or Form-90 to evaluate the change in average drinking on a drinking day, using a “standard drink” as a measure. The population of people who use MM is pretty well educated and is made up for the most part of problem drinkers rather than those meeting full-blown alcohol dependence criteria. The idea is to teach problem drinkers more responsible drinking habits so that they don’t devolve their habits into all-out alcoholism. When you surround yourself with others who moderate their drinking, it’s much easier to moderate your own intake. (Surely, you’ve heard that you should surround yourself with the people you want to be like?) Because many people have an unconscious desire to conform, you can essentially turn peer pressure toward alcohol in the other direction.
What is alcohol moderation?
Studies have shown that in some cultures there are a small percentage of people who can return to moderate drinking. Attempts at moderation may not be worth the effort or the risk when considering the consequences. If your own life has been a mess because of your addictive behavior, why chance it? While research shows long-term benefits to abstinence, this approach can leave out those who want to change their drinking habits but are not ready to abstain completely. Many treatment facilities require that their “clients” remain substance-free, which may deter those wanting to adapt their relationship with alcohol. The advantages of MET and CT were indicated for abstinence in AUDs in this meta-analysis.
- Drinking is often a coping strategy subconsciously used to avoid having to deal with uncomfortable or painful issues.
- Many treatment facilities require that their “clients” remain substance-free, which may deter those wanting to adapt their relationship with alcohol.
- At Silicon Beach Behavioral Health, our mission is to ensure that every person can reach his or her full potential.
- Manage emotional triggers during recovery by exercising, resting, seeking therapy or counseling, meditating, and spending time with positive people – these activities can help you feel more in control and support.
- On the other hand, upon cutting back on drinking, many heavy drinkers experience improvements in sleep, cognitive function, weight loss, productivity, interpersonal relationships, energy, and overall mental health.
- For some, their decision to cut back on or abstain from drinking is connected to a desire to be healthier, save money, or reestablish their views on their alcohol consumption.
They might practice sobriety regularly with interspersed episodes of moderation. Before deciding whether you want to embark on an abstinence or moderation-based journey, it’s essential to pinpoint your condition and desire to quit drinking. It’s important to note, too, that not everyone considering these approaches has an alcohol use disorder (AUD). If you view yourself as someone who would like to cut back on how many drinks you have a week, then moderation may be best suited for you. However, if you find yourself struggling with regulating how much alcohol you drink in a day or week, an abstinence-based approach may be necessary for changing your drinking habits.
