Reducing self-stigma in substance abuse through acceptance and commitment therapy: Model, manual development, and...

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Addiction Medicine

Background:

• Self-stigma presents a significant challenge in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment.
• Limited research exists on effective interventions for self-stigma in SUD populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an acceptance-based treatment (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy - ACT) for self-stigma in individuals undergoing treatment for SUD.
• To assess the preliminary outcomes and potential mechanisms of change associated with this novel intervention.

Main Methods:

• A 6-hour group workshop was developed, integrating mindfulness, acceptance, and values clarification techniques.
• The intervention was delivered to 88 participants in a residential substance use disorder treatment program.
• Outcomes were measured at post-treatment to assess changes in self-stigma and related variables.

Main Results:

• Preliminary outcomes indicated medium to large effect sizes across several variables post-treatment.
• Experiential avoidance, a key mediator, showed results consistent with theoretical expectations.
• The impact on other potential mediating factors yielded mixed findings.

Conclusions:

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) demonstrates potential as an effective treatment for reducing self-stigma in individuals with substance use disorders.
• Further research is warranted to explore the mechanisms of change and optimize the intervention for diverse SUD populations.