Enabling midlife women’s self-discovery : strengthening self-care in early abstinent recovery

![CDATA[Enabling recovery change processes was one foci of our ‘Researching with Women in Recovery’ (RWR) study, conducted between 2006 and 2013 (inclusive).Women in midlife (35 to 59 years) with Alcohol Use Disorders (AUDs) contributed to the study where abstinent recovery, with a return to health and wellness was identified The self-discovery strategies presented by the women for recovery are presented with the aim of contributing to the participants knowledge about improving midlife women’s healthcare services., and meeting women’s needs for wellbeing in recovery. The primary participants of RWR comprised 246 midlife women in abstinent recovery (with 2 to 31 years of abstinence) and 106 practitioners (with recognised qualifications in addiction care) working with clients with AUDs. By the completion of the six RWR Participatory Action Research cycles, there were 970 participants. Data generated through our four lines of inquiry, using six methods of collection (surveys, two types of interviews, email questionnaires, transdisciplinary literature reviews and direct observation), over six Action Cycles, were subjected to NVivo text analysis, as part of a planned mixed methods triangulated strategy. The self-discovery strategies presented will be: 1. Moving through fatigue to vitality; 2. Brain changes and mental wellness; 3. Emotional stability assisting daily living; and personal growth supported through recovery affiliations to meet the women’s needs. The women’s partners through this journey may include, expert peers, Alcohol and Other Drug practitioners, mutual support groups and inter-professional staff, e.g., social workers, psychiatrists, GPs. Such evolving partnerships enable healthcare teams to continue to learn about women’s self-hood, adulthood and womanhood in recovery. Audience participation in this session is encouraged. Discussion points will include: women’s non-recovery indicators and self-valuing techniques to prevent alienation and a return to high-risk drinking; early recovery development plans including practices for limiting damaging relationships and preparing for pleasurable activities.]]