Treatment of alcohol use disorder

The seminar explores various innovative approaches to treating Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), highlighting the challenges of dropout and relapse. Key contributions included a comparison of cognitive and mindfulness-targeted hypnotic suggestions to enhance working memory and reduce relapse rates. Madrid's experience with controlled alcohol drinking rooms was discussed, showcasing a unique intervention. The impact of peer feedback on drinking behaviours in social settings was examined, emphasizing implicit social atonement. A randomized controlled trial demonstrated the effectiveness of a smartphone app designed for alcohol-dependent individuals, while the role of autobiographical reasoning in clinical outcomes was also highlighted. Additionally, a Norwegian multi-site study identified predictors of treatment completion and discontinuation in group therapies for AUD. Lastly, successful counselling strategies in Germany differentiated between medical and legal referrals for alcohol and cannabis use. Overall, the seminar emphasizes the need for tailored treatment approaches that consider diverse patient backgrounds and needs.