Overcoming AUD : the couples’ stories

Abstract

This study explored the stories of three couples who overcame Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). The stories presented relate to how their life narratives have changed with the presence of AUD and how it affected them individually and as a couple. Individual and joint interviews were held with each couple, and the data collected was analysed using thematic narrative analysis. A systemic conceptual framework was used, including attachment theory and the family resilience framework, while adopting a social constructionist approach. Following analysis, the results talked about the impact AUD had on the couples’ relationships while understanding how they overcame it. A couple of central aspects that helped the couples overcome AUD were the circular patterns of interaction between them and the power of connection within the relationship. Other prominent themes evoked through the couples’ stories include secrecy, resilience, and hope. The study’s conclusion focuses on what practices and interventions need to be carried out by therapists and policymakers to ensure couples impacted by AUD are supported effectively.