Aims

To support the free and open dissemination of research findings and information on alcoholism and alcohol-related problems. To encourage open access to peer-reviewed articles free for all to view.

For full versions of posted research articles readers are encouraged to email requests for "electronic reprints" (text file, PDF files, FAX copies) to the corresponding or lead author, who is highlighted in the posting.

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Thursday, October 2, 2008

The DRAM Vol. 4(8) - Falling off the Recovery Wagon: Drinking Trajectories

Understanding the drinking behavior that can occur immediately after a lapse from abstinence can help individuals prepare for obstacles as they work their way toward a more stable recovery. Using data from the Relapse Replication and Extension Project (RREP), researchers examined the behavior of recovering individuals from an alcohol-related disorder following an initial post-treatment lapse (Witkiewitz & Masyn, 2008).

Discussion
Witkiewitz & Masyn’s results suggest that lapses can lead to multiple drinking trajectories and that successful recovery is affected by coping skills. Further, a family history of addiction and many years of alcohol related problems do not affect individuals’ post lapse recovery. The three trajectories indicate that both lapse and lapse recovery have to be addressed early and comprehensively in an individual’s treatment so that any possible future relapse is offset by a plan for recovery.
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