Addiction in context: The influence of families and wider social networks, theory and practice

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Created on Monday, 10 February 2014 12:10

During November 2013 Alex Copello was invited to give one of the keynote addresses at the Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol & other Drugs (APSAD) annual conference in Brisbane. APSAD is the Asia Pacific's leading multidisciplinary organisation for professionals involved in the alcohol and other drug field. Alex gave his talk entitled: Addiction in context: The influence of families and wider social networks, theory and practice. In addition Alex run a workshop within the conference program on the 5-Step Method to help family members affected by alcohol and drug problems.

The abstract of Alex's talk can be seen below. In addition Alex ran a workshop within the conference program on the 5-Step Method to help family members affected by alcohol and drug problems.

Addiction in context: The influence of families and wider social networks, theory and practice.

Professor Alex Copello – University of Birmingham, UK

There has been increased research and clinical interest in the potential role of the social environment in influencing and supporting recovery from alcohol and drug problems. From a theoretical point of view, on the one hand studies have attempted to establish the important social factors that may influence positive outcomes for those using substances. Despite some increased understanding there are still some gaps in our knowledge due to methodological and conceptual challenges in this literature. It seems clear that significant others including family members and friends affected by the user of alcohol and drugs can exert a positive influence and the evidence will be reviewed and discussed.

On the other hand, irrespective of the trajectory of the addiction problem, those close and affected family members and friends have also needs in their own right. These needs can be addressed even when the problems substance use remains unchanged or even deteriorates.

Drawing from a number of research studies, the present talk will attempt to illustrate with reference to evidence, the various ways in which family members and friends can both become involved in the treatment and support of the substance user and also receive support in their own right. Whilst there is some evidence of effective practice, there are a number of challenges to implementation. It is argued that a significant shift in focus is needed if we are aiming to reduce the significant harm that addiction problems generate not only to the users of substances but also those family members and friends that are also affected.