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The paper refers to tendencies as habitual inclinations that can change based on new experiences, while trajectories map how these tendencies develop and shift over time.
This perspective presents recovery as a dynamic process influenced by various factors rather than a fixed outcome, and also sheds light on some of the actions that can aid recovery.
Understanding change and recovery, particularly in contexts like substance use, often requires more than just examining isolated events or behaviours. Analysing tendencies and trajectories can help us see the bigger picture, linking personal and external factors and challenging the idea that people are solely responsible for their recovery," explains Dr Oliver.
"Traditional views often blame individuals for their problems and ignore the complexities of the recovery process. We use the ideas of tendencies and trajectories to show that recovery involves ongoing actions and interactions with one's environment," she says.
To address the limitations of traditional models, the researchers explored new ways of understanding recovery. The concepts of tendencies and trajectories offer insights into how recovery evolves over time.
Recovery in urban-rural areas
Dr Katrin explains that there is limited research on how geographic and cultural factors impact alcohol and other drug recovery, particularly in urban-rural areas. To address this gap, the study examined the experiences of 14 participants in an urban-rural region in Victoria, Australia.
"The study region has poorer health outcomes compared to other areas, with high rates of mental health issues and substance use. Understanding how recovery happens in this context is important for developing effective support systems," she highlights.
Mapping common tendencies
The researchers identified three common recovery tendencies: navigating boundaries, participating in activities, and connecting with nature.
Navigating boundaries
Participants described efforts to avoid or minimise exposure to situations that could trigger drug use or challenge their wellbeing. This often involved managing personal emotions, negotiating relationships, and minimising exposure to substances or environments associated with past drug use. For example, one of the participants, Rose*, described the social discomfort of avoiding conversations with former friends who used cannabis, highlighting the awkwardness of maintaining boundaries in a small-town setting.
Sometimes I'll see someone, and I'll try and avoid […] so it's like "hi" and just keep walking but not engage. I've always got this excuse, like, "I'm tired, I've just finished work", or "I can't talk now because I've just done a night shift", which might be a lie, or "I've got to go to work", so I'll just use that. It's just very awkward," she says.
Participating in activities
All participants discussed activities that supported their recovery and overall sense of wellbeing. Engaging in activities like yoga, painting, or exercising was often crucial alongside changing substance use patterns. These activities, when practised regularly, formed new supportive tendencies.
Connecting with nature
For many participants, connecting with nature was also a significant component of their recovery. Natural surroundings provided a source of beauty and tranquillity that was essential to their recovery process.
"This connection helped participants manage the complexities and challenges of their recoveries, offering a counterbalance to the struggles faced in other areas of their lives," explains Dr Katrin.
Trajectories of change
Participants shared various recovery trajectories influenced by personal experiences and external events. The researchers identified two main types: 'drift' and 'catalysing recovery trajectories.'
Drift: a trajectory of gradual shifts
Rose's* recovery process exemplifies a 'drift' trajectory, characterised by gradual shifts rather than sudden changes. After decades of cannabis use, she had stopped smoking for nearly a year at the time of the interview, not due to a single event but through a series of situational changes and realisations. Over time, events like the death of friends and growing health concerns led her to seek change. Moving away from old peer groups, seeking therapy, and practising yoga facilitated her shift away from cannabis use:
I have to be able to sit with myself [...] I want to learn to manage the compulsion to not be in this world, the compulsion to dissociate, to distract, to avoid," she revealed.
Rose's story illustrates how a series of overlapping events, rather than a single catalyst, created a helpful environment for recovery. Her experiences highlight how gradual changes and avoiding old habits supported her recovery.
Catalysing: a significant shift triggered by specific events
Andrew's journey represents a 'catalysing recovery trajectory,' where specific events triggered a significant shift. Faced with a family crisis, Andrew turned to methamphetamines to cope. His situation worsened, leading to homelessness and making him reconnect with his estranged parents. This move became a catalyst for change as he realised the cost of his substance use and chose to focus on rebuilding his life:
I was forced into a corner where I had no choice. It was a godsend, and I thank my lucky stars that they did take me in again and without any question, too. It was pretty overwhelming," he said.
Andrew's case underscores how critical events, like family crises and homelessness, can act as catalysts for recovery. The support from his parents and his desire to be present in his daughters' lives motivated him to stop using methamphetamines, highlighting how specific events can dramatically influence recovery.
Applying the concepts of tendencies and trajectories provides valuable insights into the recovery process. These tools help us to see beyond immediate behaviours and understand the broader patterns and progressions that shape recovery. By integrating these concepts into recovery planning and support, we can enhance our understanding and effectiveness in facilitating meaningful change," concludes Dr Katrin.
*The names of all participants were recorded as pseudonyms to maintain privacy.