What is Abstinence?
Abstinence refers to a period of time when an addicted person is not using any substances of intoxication. There are all sorts of reasons why one with alcohol or drug addiction may stop using for some time.

Jail, probation, threat of job loss and family separation are all common reasons for periods of abstinence.

Abstinence may be a state of stability and comfort, or may be a time of just hanging on.