Perceptions of loneliness among people accessing treatment for substance use disorders

Introduction and Aims Guided by cognitive theory of loneliness, this study sought to explore the experience of loneliness among people accessing treatment for substance use disorders. Specifically, contributors to, consequences and alleviators of loneliness were explored. Design and Methods Individu...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Drug and alcohol review 2020-07, Vol.39 (5), p.484-494
Main Authors: Ingram, Isabella, Kelly, Peter J., Deane, Frank P., Baker, Amanda L., Dingle, Genevieve A.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
addiction recovery
Authenticity
Cognitive-behavioral factors
Drug use
Fear & phobias
Interviews
isolation
Loneliness
Medical treatment
qualitative study
Residential treatment
Sense of purpose
substance dependence
Substance use disorder
Support groups
Trust
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Summary:Introduction and Aims Guided by cognitive theory of loneliness, this study sought to explore the experience of loneliness among people accessing treatment for substance use disorders. Specifically, contributors to, consequences and alleviators of loneliness were explored. Design and Methods Individual semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 20 participants. Interviews were conducted onsite at two residential treatment facilities in New South Wales, Australia. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed and an iterative categorisation approach was used to guide data analysis and reporting. Results Four key themes emerged as contributors to and consequences of loneliness: cognitions (mistrust, perceived support from others, low self‐worth and fear of negative evaluation), quality and authenticity of relationships, unhelpful interpersonal behaviours and the role of substance use. Participants indicated that overcoming the cognitive and behavioural perpetuators helped to alleviate loneliness and also described the utility of support groups, pursuit of authentic relationships and activities that provide a sense of purpose as helpful. Discussion and Conclusions Cognitions related to mistrust, lack of perceived support, low self‐worth, fear of negative evaluation and identification and pursuit of meaningful relationships supportive of recovery should be key treatment targets for this population.
ISSN:0959-5236
1465-3362
DOI:10.1111/dar.13120