Adapting Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Substance Use and Comorbid Conditions Among Diverse Populations
David I K Moniz-Lewis1, Victoria R Votaw2, Katie Witkiewitz3
1University of New Mexico and National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism predoctoral fellow at the Center for Alcohol Substance Use and Addiction.
Journal of Health Service Psychology
|February 13, 2026
Summary
Mindfulness-based interventions effectively treat substance use disorder and co-occurring conditions. Adapting these treatments ensures fidelity while remaining sensitive to diverse populations and individual recovery paths.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Psychology
- Addiction Medicine
- Behavioral Health
Background:
- Substance use disorder (SUD) often co-occurs with psychological conditions.
- Comprehensive treatment is crucial for SUD recovery.
- Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) show efficacy for psychological diagnoses, including SUD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore best practices for adapting MBIs for SUD and comorbid conditions.
- To provide guidance on maintaining MBI fidelity and contextual adaptability.
- To highlight optimizing and personalizing MBIs for diverse recovery pathways.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on adapting MBIs for SUD.
- Exploration of core empirical and theoretical foundations of MBIs.
- Guidance on integrating fidelity with contextual sensitivity.
Main Results:
- MBIs can be adapted for diverse populations with SUD and comorbid conditions.
- Balancing fidelity and flexibility optimizes MBI effectiveness.
- Personalized MBI approaches support varied recovery journeys.
Conclusions:
- Adapted MBIs offer a flexible framework for treating SUD and comorbid conditions.
- Maintaining core MBI principles while adapting to context is key.
- Personalized mindfulness strategies enhance recovery outcomes for individuals with SUD.
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