Perceived Barriers to Reducing Heavy Drinking: Self and Others—A Focus Group Study

The purpose of this study was to explore the perceived barriers to reducing heavy drinking and seeking treatment among young adults, both for themselves and for others. A qualitative study was conducted using virtual focus group sessions with five groups and the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) reporting guideline was followed. In November 2022, 19 young adults, aged 18-24, were recruited for the study. The average age of participants in the focus group was 23.11 years (standard deviation = 0.99), ranging from 21 to 24. Data was analysed using deductive content analysis. 58% of participants identified themselves as heavy drinkers, although only 26% (n = 5) had sought treatment for alcohol use. Furthermore, 68% reported that their family members or friends experienced drinking problems. Participants expressed that heavy drinking experiences for both themselves and others were influenced by the social and cultural contexts they were exposed to, in addition to peer influence. The results regarding participants' experiences with seeking treatment for heavy drinking reveal a multifaceted picture of the challenges and barriers faced by young adults and others they observed in accessing help for their alcohol-related issues. This study sheds light on the experiences of young adults (self and others) with heavy drinking and the obstacles encountered in seeking and receiving treatment. The findings underscore the importance of developing targeted interventions and support systems to address these challenges and improve the well-being of young adults experiencing heavy drinking. Future research and policy efforts should focus on reducing stigma, enhancing accessibility to treatment services, and promoting peer support to facilitate more effective alcohol treatment for this demographic.