The role of self-compassion in alcohol use disorders : an exploratory study : a project based on an investigation at ServiceNet, Inc., Northampton, Massachusetts

The goal of this study was to replicate prior research that has examined differences between self-compassion, depression, anxiety and stress in adults with Alcohol Use Disorders (AUDs). This is the first study that has compared levels of self-compassion by whether or not participants are in sober recovery. A clinical sample of 69 adults, who were currently in sober recovery or in treatment for an AUD, were administered a quantitative survey to assess various characteristics, which included: current depression, anxiety and stress levels; current alcohol use and related problems; and how they treat themselves during difficult times. Major findings were that participants had significantly lower levels of selfcompassion and higher levels of depression, anxiety and stress compared to norms for the general population. In addition, respondents in sober recovery (no longer drinking) were found to be significantly more self-compassionate and less depressed and anxious than those struggling with an active AUD. Such results indicate that interventions designed to enhance self-compassion may be beneficial to incorporate into substance abuse treatment