American Society of Addiction Medicine
American Society of Addiction Medicine
Nonabstinence Among US Adults in Recovery From an Alcohol or Other Drug Problem
Nonabstinence Among US Adults in Recovery From an Alcohol or Other Drug Problem
Nonabstinence Among US Adults in Recovery From an Alcohol or Other Drug Problem
Friday 11th July 2025
Explore non-abstinence in recovery with Dr. Emily Pasman as she challenges traditional addiction treatment models.
20 minutes
Informative
Supportive
Engaging
Eye-opening
Compassionate
About this podcast
Author:
American Society of Addiction Medicine
Overview:
Categories:
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Navigating Alcohol Dependency
Family Recovery from Addiction
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Nutritional Pathways to Recovery
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Episodes:
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Get the buttons here!Rethinking Recovery: Beyond Abstinence in Addiction Medicine
Episode Overview
- Recovery doesn't always mean abstinence; moderation can be part of the journey.
- Traditional models like 12-step programs may not suit everyone.
- Harm reduction interventions offer alternative paths to recovery.
- Societal stigma can limit treatment options and outcomes.
- Personalised recovery goals can lead to better engagement and health.
Abstinence is really promoted as the only feasible path to recovery.
Addiction Medicine: Beyond the Abstract takes a fascinating look at how recovery from substance use doesn't always mean abstinence. In this episode, Dr. Emily Pasman shares her research findings on non-abstinence among adults in recovery. With a blend of personal experience and academic expertise, Dr. Pasman explores the limitations of abstinence-only models, arguing that recovery can be more flexible and tailored to individual needs.
Her study suggests that many people in recovery may still use substances in moderation, challenging the traditional 12-step philosophy that promotes complete abstinence as the sole path to recovery. Dr. Pasman, a postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Michigan, advocates for harm reduction interventions and emphasises the importance of supporting diverse recovery goals.
She highlights how attitudes towards addiction need to evolve to embrace non-abstinent pathways, pointing out that these approaches can lead to positive outcomes and improved health for those who might not fit into the abstinence mould. The conversation also touches on how societal stigma can affect recovery choices and the need for broader acceptance of alternative recovery methods.
Whether you're a med student, someone in recovery, or just curious about addiction medicine, this episode offers valuable insights into how recovery can be a personalised journey. Dr. Pasman's reflections encourage listeners to rethink what recovery means and consider how services can better meet diverse needs. Dive into this engaging discussion and discover why flexibility in recovery models might just be the key to reaching more people effectively.