A qualitative longitudinal study of the first UK Dual Diagnosis Anonymous (DDA), an integrated peer-support programme for concurrent disorders
ISSN: 1757-0972
Article publication date: 28 October 2020
Issue publication date: 19 November 2020
Abstract
Purpose
Dual Diagnosis Anonymous (DDA) is a peer-led programme developed in the USA, which aims to address mental and addictive disorders in an integrated manner. This study is part of a mixed-methods evaluation of the first DDA pilot in the UK, and the purpose of this study is to explore the impact and mechanism of change of the programme through the perspective of DDA attendees, facilitators and the funding commissioners.
Design/methodology/approach
Six DDA members were interviewed three times over a period of 12 months, the facilitators were interviewed twice and the commissioner was interviewed once. The qualitative longitudinal data were analysed using a trajectory thematic analysis.
Findings
DDA attendance was perceived to have had a positive impact on five main areas: acceptance of self, of others and from others; social functioning; self-development; recovery progression; and feeling of hope. The possibility of addressing both mental health and addiction at the same time was a key factor in the recovery process. The facilitators observed that DDA had contributed to integrate members into employment and education, while the commissioner stressed the importance of joint commissioning and sustainability.
Originality/value
The longitudinal approach provided a unique insight into the recovery process of DDA members. Being able to address the mental health as well as the substance use problems was considered to be a fundamental strength of DDA in comparison to the single purpose peer-support fellowships.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to express their gratitude to the trustees of Sir Halley Stewart Trust for supporting the study. They also thank all DDAmembers, DDA facilitators and the Ealing Drug and Alcohol Commissioner for participating with their valuable contributions.
Citation
Milani, R.M., Nahar, K., Ware, D., Butler, A., Roush, S., Smith, D., Perrino, L. and O’Donnell, J. (2020), "A qualitative longitudinal study of the first UK Dual Diagnosis Anonymous (DDA), an integrated peer-support programme for concurrent disorders", Advances in Dual Diagnosis, Vol. 13 No. 4, pp. 151-167. https://doi.org/10.1108/ADD-01-2020-0001
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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