Transformational Experiences on Long-Term Recovery from Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and Depressive Disorder in Men
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Authors
Colgate, Arthur
Issue Date
2026-03
Type
Dissertation
Language
en
Keywords
Transformational Experiences , Depressive Disorder , Alcohol Use Disorder , Healthcare Innovation & Delivery
Alternative Title
Abstract
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) combined with a depressive disorder creates complex challenges that affect men’s health, relationships, and ability to sustain recovery. Although treatment options exist, little is known about the personal turning points that lead to lasting recovery when both conditions are present. This gap limits how practitioners and researchers understand the experiences that drive long-term change. The purpose of this study was to explore the transformational experiences that contributed to sustained recovery among men with histories of alcoholism and comorbid depression. Addiction recovery as a transformative learning (ARTL) framework guided the study, extending transformative learning theory to the context of addiction and identity change. A qualitative narrative inquiry design was used. Nine men in long-term recovery, ranging from five to 40 years of sobriety, participated in semi-structured interviews. The interviews followed an open-ended guide designed to elicit stories of pivotal change, identity shifts, and recovery milestones. Transcripts were coded inductively to capture themes and deductively to apply the tenets of ARTL. The guiding research questions asked: How do men with alcohol use disorder and comorbid depressive disorder describe their transformational experiences in relation to long-term recovery? Analysis revealed six major themes: emotional healing and self-acceptance, identity transformation, recovery practices and strategies, relationship repair and social support, spiritual and existential insights, and sustained growth and life integration. Across participants, the reconstruction of personal identity emerges as the central mechanism linking transformational experiences with sustained recovery. Identity was described as both a source of vulnerability in addiction and a cornerstone of recovery. Transformational moments frequently occurred at times of crisis or existential questioning, sparking enduring shifts in worldview, purpose, and sense of self. The findings demonstrate how transformational learning processes support recovery as a lifelong endeavor. Implications for practice include integrating identity-focused counseling, encouraging narrative reconstruction, and designing interventions that address co-occurring depression alongside addiction. Recommendations for research include extending this inquiry to diverse populations and exploring non-twelve-step recovery pathways.