A pilot study of the Moving On In My Recovery program for people in recovery from substance use

Background: This study pilot tested Moving On In My Recovery (MOIMR), a 12-session, acceptance-based, cognitive-behavioral, manual-guided group program for individuals in recovery from substance use. MOIMR aims to bridge the gap between formal treatment and sustained recovery. Method: Participants were 61 people in recovery from substance use and in the catchment area of the Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board, North Wales, United Kingdom. Using a variety of questionnaires, participants' psychological flexibility and wellbeing were assessed at baseline, post-treatment, and a three-month follow-up. Participants who dropped out were contacted at the follow-up and interviewed about their experience. Results: The study successfully recruited participants from real-world treatment services. During the study, significant improvements were observed in participants' social functioning, experiential avoidance, recovery capital, low mood, and anxiety. The proportion of participants who achieved abstinence also improved. Qualitative feedback confirmed the benefits that participants derived from attending the MOIMR groups. Conclusion: The program offered significant benefits for the participants despite many of them having apprehensions about undertaking a group-based approach. The gains established by quantitative analysis appeared to be supported by the qualitative findings. These findings suggest that a full randomized controlled trial of MOIMR would be feasible.