Factors Associated With Alcohol Use Among Individuals Commencing Treatment at Community‐Based Outpatient Treatment Centres in Australia

TL;DR

This study explores factors linked to alcohol use among people starting treatment in Australian outpatient centers, aiming to improve interventions.

Contribution

The study identifies specific demographic and behavioral factors associated with harmful alcohol use at treatment commencement.

Findings

Female gender, unemployment, and poor health are linked to higher alcohol use scores.

A goal to cease alcohol use is associated with fewer drinking and heavy drinking days.

Self-referral is connected to more heavy drinking days.

Abstract

Understanding the characteristics of individuals seeking treatment for alcohol use is essential for developing effective interventions. This study aimed to: (i) describe the characteristics of individuals accessing treatment at Australian outpatient alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment centres; and (ii) identify characteristics associated with more harmful alcohol use at treatment commencement.

Clients from 34 community‐based AOD centres completed surveys on demographic, substance use, health‐related quality of life and social characteristics. A linear mixed model and two negative binomial models were used to examine factors associated with higher AUDIT scores (indicting more hazardous or harmful alcohol consumption), frequency of drinking days and heavy drinking days in the last 14 days.

Participants (n = 1130) were predominantly male (65%), reported concurrent drug use (62%), self‐referred for treatment (57%) and wanted to cease alcohol use completely (42%) or drink moderately (39%). Female gender, unemployment, being a victim or perpetrator of violence, poorer physical and mental health, self‐referral and a goal to cease alcohol use were associated with higher AUDIT scores. Those reporting home duties, retirement, disability/carer pension, student or other employment had lower AUDIT scores. Older age, poorer physical and mental health, and treatment in Western Australia and Queensland were associated with more drinking and heavier drinking days. A goal to cease alcohol use was linked to 23% and 17% lower drinking days and heavy drinking days. Self‐referral was associated with more heavy drinking days.

Individuals seeking treatment for AOD use have diverse needs that should inform tailored and holistic treatment.