Exploring Indicators of Natural Recovery from Alcohol and Drug Use Problems: Findings from the Life in Recovery Survey in Flanders

Introduction: Research has established natural recovery (NR) as an important pathway to substance use recovery. Studies investigating correlates of NR have focused mainly on demographic and substance use variables rather than life circumstances. This study seeks to better understand the phenomenon of natural recovery by (i) validating the international scientific literature concerning demographic and substance use indicators of NR in Flanders and (ii) assessing the additional explanatory power of recovery strengths and barriers during active addiction, controlling for demographic and substance use covariates. Methods: . A total of 343 participants in recovery from alcohol or drug use problems (≥ 3 months) completed an online cross-sectional survey in Flanders. Results: . A higher education level, lower severity of dependence, and cannabis use as the main problem substance (vs. alcohol) were statistically significant (p < 0.05) indicators of NR. A second logistic regression model was used to add scores for the number of barriers and strengths associated with active addiction, and the results showed that barriers, but not strengths, were significantly different. When barrier items were individually tested, having untreated emotional or mental health problems, having a driver’s license revoked and damaging property were statistically significant. The most commonly reported reason for not entering treatment was not experiencing the need to do so. Conclusion: The results highlight the importance of a holistic approach to recovery support across multiple life domains, within and beyond the scope of treatment. Limitations and research opportunities are discussed.