Trauma is a physically or emotionally harmful or life-threatening event that negatively affects well-being. Recently, a high correlation between trauma and substance addiction has been recognized. The aim of this study is to synthesize qualitative studies to understand the effects of trauma involved in the addiction and recovery process.

By searching qualitative studies about addiction and recovery, 17 Korean studies (80 subjects) were finally included in our analysis.

We recorded the traumas experienced, and their effects on addiction and recovery. Trauma reduced self-esteem and triggered psychological pain, while addiction was perceived as a countermeasure. As the trauma became accepted, participants acknowledged themselves, realized the value of their existence, and formed trusting relationships with others. Recovery progressed as the trauma healed.

Our study facilitates a comprehensive and systematic understanding of the role of trauma on addiction.

The purpose of this qualitative study is to identify stresses and coping of recovering alcoholics in communities.

Individual interviews were conducted with a total of 8 recovering alcoholics. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Two categories and six subcategories for each category were derived. Two categories were ‘life problems and stresses encountered without drinking’ and ‘constant change efforts and growth’. The identified stresses of the participants were summarized as ‘a body weakened by drinking’, ‘constant vigilance against the ongoing temptation of drinking’, ‘painful regrets for the past’, ‘difficulties in building new relationships’, ‘a lonely life left alone’, ‘a long way to self-reliance’. In addition, the revealed helpful factors in coping with the stresses were ‘strong power by being together’, ‘strong family support’, ‘firm wills constantly strengthened’, ‘healing power of letting-go’, ‘awareness through learning’, ‘participation in various activities to replace drinking’.

Participants were experiencing various stresses caused by physical, mental and social problems in their recovery process and trying to overcome the difficulties by applying various methods. The results of this study may provide significant information to prevent relapse and maintain the recovery process of alcoholics.