Factors Associated with Abstinence Among Men with Alcohol Use Disorder: A Qualitative Study

Recovery in Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a complex process and is characterized by periods of relapse and remission. Sustained abstinence is an essential element of the recovery process and the primary treatment objective for AUD in many cases. This study aimed to explore factors that promoted abstinence in men with AUD who relapsed frequently and were hospitalized more than twice in a year.

Men with AUD who relapsed frequently (n = 29) were screened, consented, and recruited for the study. The data were collected through six Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) over four months. The FGDs were audio-recorded, transcribed, and translated. ATLAS. ti 23 software was used for coding, group coding, organizing, and analyzing data. Inductive thematic analysis was employed to identify themes related to factors associated with achieving and maintaining abstinence.

Five themes emerged as factors that promoted abstinence in the past: (a) employment, (b) treatment, (c) fear, (d) social support, and (e) responsibility. The study found that post-discharge therapeutic support, including after-care services, such as periodic telephonic follow-up, provision of free medication, and therapist availability during a crisis, was beneficial. Family recognition, emotional support, aversion therapy (disulfiram), fear of losing jobs, commitment to create a secure future for their children, and connection with non-drinking friends were the factors that supported abstinence.

The findings underscore the importance of enhancing after-care services, fostering workplace support, and family-based interventions. Integrating abstinence-promoting factors into the treatment plan may reduce relapse risk and support sustained abstinence.