Here we found that a number of factors distinguish non-abstainers from abstainers in recovery from AUD, including younger age and lower problem severity. Furthermore, quality of life appeared significantly better among abstainers than non-abstainers. A better understanding of the recovery process and tools utilized by non-abstinent vs. abstinent individuals would inform clinical practice; for example, is it more important for those in abstinent recovery to have abstinent individuals in their social networks? How do the specifics of AA and other mutual aid group involvement affect long-term recovery? Do those in non-abstinent recovery have more perceived control over alcohol? Finally, we hope to further investigate the overlap between “remission” and “recovery” from AUD, especially in the context of harm reduction.
