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This is the fifth post in a series on non-pharmacologic approaches for and drug abuse. Previous posts included a general overview of alternative and integrative treatments of , a discussion of research evidence supporting the use of weak electrical current (neurelectric ) for managing symptoms of opiate withdrawal, and a review of research findings on herbals and other natural supplements for managing craving and withdrawal from alcohol and drugs. This post is offered as a concise review of training for prevention.

Mindfulness training and reduces alcohol and drug relapse risk

Many studies show that regular mindfulness training can modify these mechanisms resulting in decreased substance use and lower risk of relapsing. Research findings suggest that substance abuse is related to abnormal functioning of brain mechanisms underlying reward learning and (Priddy 2018).

Individuals who successfully avoid relapse while participating in a 12-step program frequently experience increases in (Mathew 1996). Mindfulness training and meditation are standard offerings in relapse prevention programs. Transcendental meditation may be especially effective in reducing the risk of relapse in abstinent alcoholics (Alexander 1994). Mindfulness training and spirituality are important parts of 12-step programs for relapse prevention of alcohol, tobacco and narcotic abuse, however evidence does not support any particular spiritual or mindfulness practice over any other. 12-step programs that emphasize a religious or spiritual may be more effective compared to spiritually neutral programs (Muffler 1995) (Please see full citation information below).

Two recent systematic reviews concluded that interventions were successful for reducing use of several substances of abuse including alcohol, , , alcohol, , and while often improving mood (Sancho 2018; Chiesa 2014). The paper by Sancho et al found that individuals who engage in regular mindfulness practice while receiving treatment as usual (i.e., therapy (CBT) and ), report lower relapse rates compared to individuals using mindfulness or conventional approaches alone.

Bottom line

There is considerable evidence that a regular mindfulness practice helps individuals with substance use problems to use less, and reduces the risk of relapse in abstinent individuals. Recovering alcoholics and addicts should be encouraged to pursue a mindfulness practice consistent with their beliefs and to consider attending a spiritually focused support group that combines conventional approaches such as with mindfulness.

To find out more about non-pharmacologic approaches for relapse prevention check out my book "Alcohol and Drug Abuse: The Integrative Mental Health Solution."