There are many psychotherapies that incorporate meditation and mindfulness into the therapeutic process. That said, meditation should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan and not the only means of treatment. Many of these therapies actually include mindfulness (a form of meditation) as part of their therapy process or treatment plan. For example, meditation can aid in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) by reinforcing the focus on one’s behavior. More than a decade of research has demonstrated the promise of MBIs for intervening in SUDs and preventing relapse. Although rigorous trials have been conducted, a number of these studies have methodological limitations that limit the ability to conclusively affirm the effectiveness of mindfulness intervention with SUDs and prevention of relapse.
Graduate School of Addiction Studies
- A 2009 study in Substance Abuse found that a mantra-based meditation program significantly reduced opioid cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and relapse rates compared to a control group in individuals with opioid use disorder (Brewer et al., 2009).
- These things include the most mundane habits, like scrolling on social media or brushing your teeth.
- The key types of meditation for addiction include mindfulness meditation, loving-kindness meditation, breath awareness meditation, body scan meditation, and mantra meditation, each addressing different aspects of cravings and emotional regulation.
- Mindfulness is about being present in the moment and keeping yourself from dwelling on past or future problems.
Below, we’ll explore the transformative role of meditation in overcoming addiction. By integrating this ancient practice into recovery programs, individuals battling addiction can access new avenues for healing and resilience. Let’s unpack the numerous benefits meditation in addiction recovery in the journey toward sobriety and well-being. Meditation offers several health benefits that can support people in recovery.
Addiction Treatment Programs
The key types of meditation for addiction include mindfulness meditation, loving-kindness meditation, breath awareness meditation, body scan meditation, and mantra meditation, each addressing different aspects of cravings and emotional regulation. According to the Pew Research Center, in 2014, 40% of U.S. adults practiced a form of meditation at least once a week, 8% meditated once or twice a month, and 4% meditated several times a year. Mindfulness practice may also ameliorate hedonic dysregulation and thereby reduce risk for relapse.
- For instance, monitoring their affective state, and knowing that increased stress, despair, or anger increases relapse risk, the individual may use mindfulness to contemplate the reasons they want to maintain their recovery.
- Specific meditation-based therapies like MBSR, MBCT, ACT, and DBT integrate these principles to complement traditional addiction treatment approaches.
- The mental clarity that comes from the practice of meditation makes it easier for addicts to make healthy choices that support their recovery.
- Due to the impactful effects, many people are turning to meditation for addiction recovery support.
- Our dedicated team is committed to transforming lives, not just treating addiction.
Mental Benefits
Adopting meditation as a personal practice offers empowerment and a sense of control in one’s recovery process, creating a nurturing environment for healing and personal growth. Transcendental meditation allows you to transcend above their current state by repeating a unique phrase or mantra. Often, a meditation instructor selects a mantra to allow you to achieve mindfulness and spiritual experience.
- This enhanced awareness helps individuals in addiction recovery recognize and manage cravings.
- Overcome addiction with our family support system, and regain control of your life!
- In fact, philosophers have always known—and science has more recently confirmed—that there is tremendous value in allowing ourselves to step away from the busyness of daily life and simply be.
- A guided meditation is a meditation that another person guides you through, whether in person or via a video or audio recording.
- According to the Addiction Policy Reform (APF) Survey, 1 in 3 report changes in treatment or recovery support services due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Meditation can also be difficult as it requires a lot of focus, concentration, and quiet. If you feel uncomfortable or restless with all that silence and introspection, you’re not alone, so keep at it. Meditation, an age-old practice, serves as a sanctuary for those seeking inner peace and mental clarity. Originating from various spiritual and religious traditions, it has evolved into a universally embraced method for enhancing personal well-being.
Can Mindfulness Help With Addiction Recovery?
Movement meditation can be practiced while you are doing any activity, whether that is sitting, walking, eating, doing chores, or having a conversation with a family member. If you have difficulty focusing, and your mind easily wanders away from the present moment, you may benefit from starting with guided meditations to help keep on track. Many therapists offer guided meditations during their addiction meditation individual and group therapy sessions. Guided meditation is another form of meditation that may help you in addiction recovery. A guided meditation is a meditation that another person guides you through, whether in person or via a video or audio recording.
How Does Meditation Therapy Work for Addiction?
Initiating a meditation practice can seem intimidating, particularly for those who are new to it or find it difficult to focus and stay still. Patience and consistency are crucial, as the advantages of meditation often become more apparent over time. Addiction is a complex and multifaceted challenge, deeply affecting individuals and their loved ones. Navigating the path to recovery often requires a combination of strategies.
