The role of social connectedness in supporting dual identities of substance use professionals

Personal substance use and recovery experience offers valuable insights into substance use counselors’ professional identities. However, the dynamics of their dual roles and how these are negotiated through social connectedness remain unexamined. This study explored these processes among 22 substance use professionals in Canada, using thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews. Findings highlighted three interconnected levels of social connectedness: individual, community, and organizational. Individually, relationships formed during recovery and treatment informed career transitions and motivated professional development. At the community level, recovery-oriented networks enhanced self-efficacy and supported the reconciliation of dual identities; however, the relationships required maintaining alignment with recovery and professional goals. Organizationally, collegial relationships, shared lived experience, and inclusive work culture were considered as sources of social connections. -social connectedness emerged as a central yet complex mechanism shaping recovery and practice. Strengthening substance use workforce well-being requires sustainable funding, confidential recovery supports, and continuous training and supervision.