"And Then the Rest Happened"— A Qualitative Exploration of the Role that Meaningful Activities Play in Recovery Processes for People with A Diagnosis of Substance Use Disorder. Issue 1 (December 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Veseth, Marius; Svendsen, Thomas Solgaard; Nesvaag, Sverre; Moltu, Christian; Davidson, Larry; Bjornestad, Jone
• Is Part Of: Substance abuse. Volume 43:Issue 1(2022)
• Page Start: 260
• Page End: 266
• Publication Date: 2022-12
• Subjects: Recovery -- meaningful activities -- work -- qualitative research -- interviews -- thematic analysis; Substance abuse -- Periodicals; Medical education -- Periodicals; Education, Medical -- periodicals; Substance Abuse -- periodicals; 362.29
• DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2021.1941506
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0889-7077

Abstract

Background : In this qualitative exploration, we report on a thematic analysis of the key role that engaging in meaningful activities may play in recovery processes for people with a diagnosis of substance use disorder (SUD). Methods: We conducted semi-structured, individual interviews with 30 participants and analyzed the parts of this material that were related to meaningful activities. Results: The findings are summarized through the development of three broad themes: (a) the central role of work—"The wages suck, but the job is gold"; (b) mastery and commitment—"I had to get up early, find my spot, I had to be present and fully functioning all day"; and (c) repairing the bridge to community life—"It's my job and working out that has made this possible, really, I see that now." Conclusion: We discuss these findings in relation to a recovery perspective and relevant empirical studies, highlight some important implications for research and practice, and consider the strengths and limitations of the present study.