Drug and alcohol addictions are complex conditions with roots in a person’s genetics, experiences, behaviors, and more. Seeking addiction treatment is one of the first steps people must take to overcome addiction. During treatment and throughout recovery, people must develop skills that can help them avoid relapse.
Research shows that using mindfulness practices in daily life can help people in recovery to prevent relapse. Mindfulness-based relapse prevention therapy (MBRT) teaches people to integrate mindfulness into their recovery. This approach uses mindfulness-based relapse prevention techniques to reduce the risk of relapse.
This article will explore mindfulness-based relapse prevention therapy and how it can support your recovery. You will learn:
- The principles of mindfulness
- How to practice mindfulness to support long-term recovery
- What to expect from mindfulness-based relapse prevention therapy
- Where to find addiction treatment and support
If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find the compassionate, evidence-based treatment you need at The Living Room. Contact our specialists to learn more about our substance use disorder (SUD) treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Mindfulness?
At its core, mindfulness is a gentle awareness of the present moment. People who practice mindfulness techniques focus on their thoughts and emotions without judgment. They may practice mindfulness meditation or other formal mindfulness practices. Or, they may simply engage in exercises that support more awareness in their everyday lives.
Research suggests that mindfulness can help people gain more control over their emotions, responses, and behaviors. People can use mindfulness practices to curb addictive behaviors and reduce stress in their daily lives.
Mindfulness-based relapse prevention (MBRP) programs help people with addiction to improve emotional regulation and remain grounded in the present moment. This may significantly impact a person’s ability to stay sober, even when facing challenges.
Exploring Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention Therapy (MBRT)
Mindfulness-based relapse prevention therapy (MBRT) is a therapeutic approach used in addiction treatment. This type of therapy can help people reduce cravings and negative thoughts that may lead to a relapse.
MBRT uses exercises to help people develop more awareness of their emotions. Instead of denying emotions or distracting themselves, people learn to sit with their feelings.
One of the most important goals of MBRT is to help people develop an objective view of their emotions–that there are no “good” or “bad” feelings. This may help to reduce impulsive reactions or behaviors, including substance use.
Here is an overview of the core aspects of MBRT.
Mindful meditation
Meditation can help people call gentle awareness to their inner thoughts and emotions. Daily practice can provide a safe moment of escape that may help to reduce the urge to use drugs or alcohol.
Being grounded in the present
Some people who teach mindfulness refer to the mind as a “time traveler.” It can be challenging to stay in the present moment. Regrets about the past or anxiety about the future can quickly take control of the mind.
Staying grounded in the present is one of the core aspects of mindfulness. People learn to call attention to the present moment through breathwork, mantras, and other gentle awareness practices.
Awareness of emotions
People living with SUD may struggle with negative thoughts, emotions, low self-esteem, and other intense feelings. These emotions can trigger a relapse.
MBRT helps people sit with their emotions without judging them. Instead of rushing to prevent negative feelings, people learn to tolerate them without reacting. This can be a powerful tool that supports long-term addiction recovery.
Awareness of cravings
Cravings happen to nearly everyone in recovery. Some people believe that they must use “willpower” to ignore cravings or that they are a sign of weakness.
MBRT helps people gain awareness of their cravings without judgment. It teaches effective coping strategies people can use when a craving strikes instead of trying to deny it.
Urge surfing
Urge surfing uses imagery from surfing waves on the ocean. It asks people to imagine a craving as a wave that builds, crests, and then dissolves. Using this imagery can help people avoid impulsive reactions during a craving.
What are the Benefits of Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention in Recovery
Research shows that using mindfulness in recovery can help reduce the risk of relapse. Here are some of the most significant benefits of using MBRT in addiction recovery.
Stress reduction
Mindfulness practices can reduce stress levels and promote a more peaceful approach to life. People who practice mindfulness may feel more optimistic and grounded as they navigate their recovery journey.
Improved self-worth
Feeling a sense of control over your emotions and behaviors can make people feel better about themselves. It can create a sense of optimism about the future and more confidence in the ability to avoid relapse.
Fewer negative thoughts
Addiction recovery can be challenging, both mentally and physically. Negative thoughts about the past and future can pile up quickly. Practicing mindfulness can help people stay grounded in the present moment by developing a gentle awareness of their own thoughts and feelings. This can reduce negative thoughts as people go about their days.
Find Treatment Now
Contact The Living Room specialists to learn more about how mindfulness-based relapse prevention therapy can support your recovery journey. Reach out to our team with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention for Substance Use Disorders: A Pilot Efficacy Trial