Effectiveness of Psychosocial Interventions in Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders: A Meta-Analysis Study

Abstract

Alcohol and substance use disorders (ASUD), are increasing worldwide, and these psychiatric disorders are difficult to treat. The search for new treatments for these disorders continues. Psychosocial interventions (PI) are among them, and it is important to evaluate their effectiveness. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of PI applied to individuals with ASUD. This meta-analysis was conducted by searching PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCOhost, Google Scholar, and YOK Thesis Center databases without year restrictions between October and December 2023. After reviewing the studies, 18 research articles were included in the analysis. The meta-analysis revealed that PI applied to individuals with ASUD were effective in reducing depression (SMD: -0.753, 95% CI: -1.215 to -2.91; I2 = 94.515; p < 0.05) and enhancing self-efficacy (SMD: 0.709, 95% CI: 0.096-1.321; I2 = 93.34; p < 0.05). However, these interventions were not found to be effective in improving self-esteem (SMD: 0.655, 95% CI: -1.641 to 0.331).