Substance use, treatment, and mental health among people who resolved an addiction: Comparing abstinent and non-abstinent individuals (2026)

Historically, the addiction field considered abstinence to be the key marker of recovery and abstinence has been a primary treatment outcome and focus of mutual aid groups. The centrality of abstinence has limited the exploration of non-abstinence recovery or addiction resolution pathways. As the field becomes more inclusive of different recovery paths, it is increasingly important to learn more about this population. This study was designed to: (1) explore the substance use, treatment history, and mental health of individuals who resolved an addiction; and (2) compare abstinent and non-abstinent participants on substance use, treatment, and mental health measures. A cross-sectional survey was administered via online platforms. Eligibility criteria included adults who resolved an addiction through self-reported (1) reduced use, or (2) reduced negative consequences, or (3) improved social or occupational experiences. Chi-squared and t-tests were run for bivariate comparisons. A multivariable linear regression was run to test the association between abstinence and depression. Analyses were conducted in SAS. The sample (N = 267) was 55% women, 56% White (n = 150), 17% Black (n = 44), 11% Asian (n = 30), 10% Hispanic-White (n = 27), and 6.0% other (n = 16). Forty-five percent (n = 146) were abstinent. The most frequent primary addictions were alcohol (46%) and opioids (23%). In the multivariable model, abstinence was not associated with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). This study enhances our understanding of substance use and mental health among individuals who resolved an addiction. Future research should explore patterns of substance use and mental health over time. [Author's abstract]