Tuesday 15 October 2019

Twelve-step programs and spiritual support at the end of life

American Journal of Hospice & Palliative Medicine, 2019 36(9) p.807-811
Groninger, Hunter; Knapik, Michael

In current literature, substance use disorder has mostly been examined in relation to appropriate symptom assessment and management, opioid risk screening, and controlled substance prescribing practices. However, for care to be holistic, awareness and facilitation of healthy psychosocial–spiritual coping strategies for recovering addicts should be included. One of the more common support mechanisms to support recovery is the 12-step program, based on Alcoholics Anonymous, which have been shown to provide effective coping strategies, not only to help facilitate ongoing abstinence but also to support other psychosocial–spiritual crises.