Better The Well

“Better Than Well” is a student addiction recovery programme launched by the University of Birmingham in July 2021. The programme, led by Dr Ed Day from the Institute for Mental Health in the School of Psychology, is supported by a philanthropic grant from the CrEdo Foundation. It is designed as a Collegiate Recovery Program (CRP), a concept developed in the USA, to help students maintain abstinence-based recovery while benefiting from higher education.

The programme addresses the significant implications of addiction, which can include drugs, alcohol, or behaviours like gambling, gaming, or sex. Addiction often stems from underlying trauma and social stressors and can lead to various physical, psychological, and social problems. The concept of ‘recovery’ in this context goes beyond mere abstinence, encompassing physical and mental wellbeing, meaningful activity, and full involvement in societal rights, roles, and responsibilities.

Key features of the “Better Than Well” programme include:

1. Support with university admissions, orientation, individual study plans, and academic advice
2. A safe, anonymous space for students to discuss their addiction experiences and receive peer support for behaviour change.
3. Weekly open meetings to celebrate recovery, provide ongoing support, and educate the wider community about addiction and recovery.
4. Training student peer mentors to address both recovery and educational issues
5. Developing a student organisation for recovery-oriented recreational and community volunteering activities.

Participant feedback, like that from Chris P., highlights the programme’s positive impact on both education and recovery, fostering a sense of hope and community. The programme has engaged with nearly 30 students, covering a wide age range and representing all five Colleges of the University, who report 10 different forms of addiction. An evaluation process is underway, and the team is aiding other UK universities in establishing similar services.

For more information, individuals can contact Luke Trainor or Ed Day, and follow the programme on Twitter (@BTW_UoB) or Instagram (@btw.uob).