Involvement in 12-step programs among persons with dual diagnoses

Although many people with substance use problems are referred to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), few studies have examined characteristics of persons who comply with such referrals. In particular, little is known about self-help meeting attendance by persons with dual diagnoses. This study examined rates of AA and NA attendance among 351 persons with dual diagnoses who were treated in a hospital setting. It also explored the relationship between diagnosis and meeting attendance. Ten months after hospitalization, the study participants demonstrated rates of AA or NA attendance that were similar to those of persons who were diagnosed as having substance use disorders without severe mental illness. However, patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorders reported significantly fewer days of AA or NA meeting attendance.