The strengths of individuals alcohol addiction andevaluation of perceptions on strengthening

This is a phenomenological qualitative study conducted to investigate the experiences of individuals with alcohol dependence in the process of addiction, abstinence and strengthening. The population of the study consisted of individuals with alcohol dependence problem who continued to abstinence for at least 1 year over the age of 18 who continued to Istanbul Alcoholics Association Anonymous. The study was completed with a total of 9 people, 8 male and 1 female, who have been sober for at least one year and accepted to participate in the study. The research data were obtained through the semi-structured interviews conducted with the Identifying Information Form and the Semi-Structured Interview Questionnaire containing the descriptive information of the participants. In the analysis of the data obtained from the Semi- Structured Interview Questions, Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was used. As a result of the study, the perceptions and experiences of the strengths and empowerment factors that affect the determination of alcohol dependence and alcohol withdrawal from the individuals' perspectives were determined. When the findings obtained from the themes and sub-themes are evaluated, it is a great power to continue AA, to participate in the activities and to be in solidarity. Factors that strengthen individuals after abstinence are that they have regained their lives, have become at peace with themselves and their social environment, strengthening selfefficacy levels, increasing subjective well-being levels, and increasing social support. It has been determined that sobering is an important capital that should not be lost for these individuals. Keywords;Individuals with alcohol dependence; empowerment; power; nursing; alcoholics anonymous; phenomenological study