Mindfulness-based relapse prevention for substance use disorders: a pilot efficacy trial
Sarah Bowen1, Neharika Chawla, Susan E Collins
1Addictive Behaviors Research Center, Department of Psychology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA. swbowen@u.washington.edu
Substance Abuse
|November 12, 2009
Summary
This study shows that an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP) program is feasible and effective for substance use disorder aftercare. MBRP significantly reduced substance use and craving compared to treatment as usual.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Behavioral Science
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Substance use disorders (SUDs) pose significant public health challenges.
- Effective aftercare is crucial for sustained recovery following intensive treatment.
- Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP) offers a potential avenue for enhancing SUD aftercare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and initial efficacy of an 8-week outpatient MBRP program.
- To compare MBRP to treatment as usual (TAU) for adults with SUDs.
- To assess outcomes at 2 and 4 months post-intervention.
Main Methods:
- First randomized-controlled trial of outpatient MBRP for SUDs.
- 168 adults recently completing intensive treatment were randomized to MBRP or TAU.
- Assessments included substance use, craving, acceptance, and mindfulness skills pre-, post-, and at 2 and 4 months post-intervention.
Main Results:
- MBRP demonstrated feasibility through high homework compliance, attendance, and participant satisfaction.
- MBRP group showed significantly lower substance use rates over 4 months post-intervention compared to TAU.
- MBRP participants reported greater decreases in craving and increases in acceptance and acting with awareness.
Conclusions:
- The 8-week outpatient MBRP program is a feasible and effective aftercare option for individuals with SUDs.
- MBRP shows promise in reducing substance use and improving psychological well-being post-treatment.
- Further research is warranted to confirm long-term efficacy and explore mechanisms of change.
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