Spontaneously Occurring Images in Substance Misuse
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Spontaneously Occurring Images in Substance Misuse
IRAS ID
150361
Contact name
Fatima Al Hamedi
Contact email
Research summary
Approximately two-thirds of people with alcohol or drug misuse problems have experience with “pictures, mental images” or a strong taste of alcohol or other substances once they start talking or thinking about it. Often these experiences are linked to their craving of these substances and events that may trigger their desire to use. However, to date, there has not been a study that has directly explored the nature of these images, frequency and possible link to previous memories or life events. Adding to that, our understanding of the role of these images in maintaining the substance use behaviour is limited. As previous studies suggest that mental images are a powerful tool in therapy, it is worth exploring within the addiction field.
People with alcohol or drug misuse problems tend not to disclose/talk about these mental images unless directly asked, and consequently do not receive appropriate help. Therefore, there is a need to explore and identify mental images, their nature, links to previous experiences and memories and the role these mental images may play in maintaining addictive behaviour in people with problematic alcohol or drug use. It also would help clinicians and patients to understand the mental images' mechanisms influencing misuse behaviour and persistence, in order to appropriately adapt psychological approaches and talk therapy to minimize the effect of these images in maintaining a substance use cycle.
REC name
London - Dulwich Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/LO/0342
Date of REC Opinion
24 Mar 2014
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion