Abstract

Substance abuse is a global problem that has contributed to a variety of societal, financial, health, and familial strains. An increasing prevalence of illicit drug, prescription opioids, and alcohol abuse has created a need for re-evaluation of recovery and relapse treatments. This literature review examines the efficacy of meditation-based treatments for relapse prevention in persons recovering from Substance Use Disorders (SUDs). A comparative analysis of Mindfulness Based Relapse Programs (MBRP), an adapted MBRP-W program, and a Transcendental Meditation (TM) intervention was used to examine the success of meditation-based interventions. Research supports improvements associated with the meditation-based interventions including significant reductions in substance use, craving, stress, and negative affect. Meditation-based therapy may provide the emotional self-regulation and decreased impulsivity required for long-term abstinence from substance use. Consistent meditative practice was associated with greater improvements. Altering current meditation-based therapy treatment programs to encourage adherence and participation may increase success. Additional research is needed to evaluate long-term relapse prevention potential. Research incorporating meditation-based supportive therapies that promote well-being, emotion regulation, and stress relief are important for the future of successful SUD treatment.

Thesis Completion

2019

Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Burr, Joyce

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Nursing

Department

Nursing

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Release Date

5-1-2019

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