Internet Support for Dealing with Problematic Alcohol Use: A Survey of the Soberistas Online Community

AIMS: Advances in technology have led to an increased range of possibilities for forms of mutual aid in addictions, and patient empowerment in the management of long-term conditions. However, the effective processes involved may be different online than for those that meet in person. Soberistas is a ‘social network site for people who are trying to resolve their problematic drinking patterns’. We aim to describe the population, component parts and processes that define this online community, and consider potential mechanisms of action for future research. METHODS: Cross-sectional online survey through an advert embedded within the Soberistas website. Participants were asked questions about themselves, their alcohol use and use of the website. RESULTS: Four hundred and thirty-eight people completed the survey, primarily women, 50% of whom lived with their children. Over 60% described having problematic alcohol use for over 10 years and 46.5% had not tried any form of previous support. Participants accessed the site at different stages of change; over half still drinking alcohol, cutting down or recently stopped. Over 18% reported abstinence of over 1 year. Anonymity, the ability to be honest, being a source of trusted information, and ongoing support were all cited as reasons for continued membership. CONCLUSION: Soberistas offers a form of mutual aid primarily for women who have often not engaged with other treatment or support. This preliminary study suggests that the online, flexible, platform affords members an accessible and anonymous community to address their difficulties and encourages a positive ‘alcohol free’ identity. SHORT SUMMARY: Soberistas is ‘an online community of people who are trying to resolve their problematic drinking patterns’. Preliminary data suggest that it offers a flexible platform for mutual aid primarily for women who have often not engaged with other treatment or support, by encouraging a positive ‘alcohol free’ identity.