Research studies suggest that a small but significant proportion of patients may be able to resume normal or controlled drinking. Controlled drinking is probably more likely for people with a mild disorder (or at-risk drinking) and not for a more severe disorder. Advocates for a “harm reduction” approach as an alternative to abstinence may acknowledge that abstinence is the best outcome, but that not every individual achieves this end, and that controlled drinking for some individuals is an achievable aim which reduces risk to patients. | Research studies suggest that a small but significant proportion of patients may be able to resume normal or controlled drinking. Controlled drinking is probably more likely for people with a mild disorder (or at-risk drinking) and not for a more severe disorder. Advocates for a “harm reduction” approach as an alternative to abstinence may acknowledge that abstinence is the best outcome, but that not every individual achieves this end, and that controlled drinking for some individuals is an achievable aim which reduces risk to patients. |