HARDEST TEST OF ALL –

Nov. 3, 2021 – Personal uncertainties involved questions such as: Do I even have a problem, or is this just normal college behavior? How do I stop drinking and then maintain my sobriety?

Social uncertainties related to negotiating stigmas associated with not drinking and with being a problem drinker.

Most participants sought to reduce uncertainty by seeking social support from friends and other recovering alcoholics.

Another strategy was to be open in social situations about the fact that they were in recovery. This served as a way of staying accountable and supporting others in the social situation who may not be drinkers.

Participants who were open about their recovery also often engaged in advocacy, educating themselves and others about alcoholism and combating stigma. However, some study participants were not open about their recovery because they felt it would adversely affect their social and professional lives.

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