A 2017 article published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence, An International Journal on Biomedical and Psychosocial Approaches, points out the interesting concept of equifinality as it relates to recovery from addiction. The word equifinality refers to the fact that many different paths can lead individuals to the same result. In this case, the authors are discussing the way multiple pathways can lead those with drug abuse or addiction problems to the same result: sobriety. They refer to recovery from unassisted means (described as natural recovery), as well as assisted means of recovery such as formal rehab programs, mutual-help programs such as AA, NA or therapeutic communities, and the process of simply maturing out of one’s drug problems.

This article provides a thoughtful and scientific look at the real-life results of attempts to achieve sobriety, either within or outside the confines of formal rehab or medication-assisted treatment.

Tens of millions of Americans have successfully resolved an alcohol or other drug (AOD) problem using a variety of traditional and non-traditional means. Findings suggest a need for a broadening of the menu of self-change and community-based options that can facilitate and support long-term alcohol or other drug (AOD) problem resolution.