Substance use disorder (SUD) is prevalent among young adults in college. Around 20% of students have been identified as meeting criteria for alcohol use disorder (AUD) and 14% for SUD. Collegiate Recovery Programs (CRPs) are programs that support students who are in recovery as they participate in the collegiate experience. CRPs also aid students in developing positive identities in recovery, working towards achievements and accomplishments, and reclamation of agency or the ability to make the right choices. This study is an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) that examines the lived experiences of participants’ attributes of sustained long term recovery among young adults in college.  

The study’s sample consisted of 8 students who were participating in 12-step CRP program at a university in the southwest United States. Students participated in a semi-structured interview that focused on three questions: what is your experience of the change in your identity-how do you see yourself, what is your experience regarding your achievements and accomplishments, and what is your experience of reclaiming your agency or choice in recovery. Data was analyzed using coding procedures of the interview transcriptions and IPA procedures.  

Results of the data analysis showed that all participants reported experiences of developing a new, positive identity while in long-term recovery. Four of the eight participants specified that their new identity was characterized by love and acceptance of oneself. When addressing participants achievements and accomplishments, all participants discussed the importance of establishing meaningful internal and external achievements and accomplishments. Some participants identified that their achievements and accomplishments were associated with a more positive internal change within themselves. Participants also experienced a change in agency as their recovery advanced which allowed them to make healthier choices and improve relationships. Lastly, participants indicated that their reclamation of agency was made possible through a spiritual connection that they developed during recovery.  

Takeaway: Collegiate recovery programs for college students in recovery may lead to a change in identity, achievements and accomplishments, and reclamation of agency which can aid in sustained long-term recovery.  

Kimball, T.G., Hune, N.D., Shumway, S.T., Bradshaw, S.D.. Exploring the Long-term 12-Step Collegiate Recovery Experiences of Emerging Adults: An Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly. 2022; 24:1-20. doi.org/10.1080/07347324.2022.2068990