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Mericle, A. A., Carrico, A. W., Hemberg, J., Stall, RD., & Polcin, D. L. (2018). Improving recovery outcomes among MSM: The potential role of recovery housing. Journal of Substance Use, (2). https://doi.org/10.1080/14659891.2018.1523966
Background: Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) face unique recovery challenges. Recovery housing may play an important role in improving outcomes among MSM, but little is known about their experiences in these settings. Methods: This study examined 3-month outcomes among MSM (N = 22) living in a group of recovery residences in Texas, one of which is a home specifically designated for gay and bisexual men. Upon intake, adult MSM were recruited to participate in the study, which involved a baseline and 3-month phone interview and allowing study staff to access records maintained by the program about their stay. Results: At follow-up, only two (9.1%) reported used of any substances in the past 30 days. The vast majority (73%) had attended outpatient substance use treatment in the past three months, and 86% reported working for pay during the past 30 days. All participants reported attending four or more 12-step meetings in the past 30 days. Use of dysfunctional coping strategies significantly decreased, however, so did scores on health-related quality of life. Conclusions: MSM have complex treatment needs. Recovery housing may help improve outcomes among MSM by bridging formal substance use treatment with community-based recovery support.
