Is Recovery from Alcoholism without Treatment Possible? A Review of the Literature.

The purpose of this review is to collect and report the findings of published studies that report the incidence of diagnosed alcoholics who, without formal treatment, achieved a state of full remission. Potential studies were identified through searches of electronic bibliographic databases. Studies were selected for review if they met the following criteria: (1) were published in a scholarly journal, (2) published prior to March 2014, (3) written in the English language, (4) study participants were older than age 18, (5) had an initial diagnosis of an alcohol use disorder, (6) had never been known to receive formal group or individual substance abuse treatment, and (7) recovery was defined as maintained sobriety for a minimum 12 consecutive month period. Sixteen studies meeting inclusionary criteria and published between 1976 and 2013 were located and reviewed. A growing body of evidence confirms successful remittance of alcoholism can be achieved and maintained over time, without formal treatment. Contrary to common lay and professional perceptions, a significant percentage of alcoholics appear to achieve sobriety without receiving formal treatment. However, it is not yet possible to predict who these individuals might be. Thus, entering into formal treatment remains the safest recommendation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]