Abstract
For many clients addicted to alcohol and/or drugs, it can be difficult to obtain and maintain sobriety. The purpose of this study was to explore the factors that contributed to successful long term sobriety from alcohol/drugs. This qualitative content analysis research study investigated factors that contributed to successful long term sobriety from drugs/alcohol of two men and seven women by use of convenient non-probability sampling. The top three themes found in the study were: spirituality and having a purpose as factors that contribute to long term success, relapse acts as a motivator to sobriety, and gaining control over addiction by practicing the commitment to change. Those participants that stated they had been clean from alcohol/drugs for five years or more were considered to have experienced successful long term sobriety from alcohol and drugs. Implications for social work practice and policy are discussed.