Buddhism and Addictions

The Clinical Efficacy of Mindfulness-Based Treatments for Alcohol and Drugs Use Disorders: A Meta-Analytic Review of Randomized and Nonrandomized Controlled Trials

“…Consequently, we might hypothesize how the slight advantages of MBIs in supporting abstinence in SUDs treatment could be ascribed to the reduction of several forms of impulsivity that are related to lapse and relapse in addictive behaviors. Even though this conclusion is in line with mindfulness theoretical assumptions in addiction treatment (e.g.. [31][32]), these considerations were not robust enough as indicated by the Orwin's fail-safe number. Consequently, future research in MBIs efficacy should focus on process-outcome studies that are needed to prove this hypothesis.…”

“…For example, Groves and Farmer [31] confirmed "In the context of addictions, mindfulness might mean becoming aware of triggers for craving…and choosing to do something else which might ameliorate or prevent craving, so weakening the habitual response" (p. 189). Further, Witkiewitz et al [32] continued how mindfulness meditation might disrupt the craving response system, which is considered by an association between environmental cues and rigid cognitive responding, by providing heightened awareness and acceptance of the initial craving response, without judging, analyzing, or reacting [32].…”

A Preliminary trial of twelve-step facilitation and acceptance and commitment therapy with polysubstance-abusing methadone-maintained opiate addicts

“…These treatments are relatively friendly to the basic beliefs of many substance abuse providers (e.g., Linehan et al, 2002). For example, while the emphasis on God in 12-step programs is a known barrier to participation by nonbelievers (Tonigan, Miller, & Schermer, 2002), mindfulness meditation provides an alternative, more experiential approach to issues of spirituality that seems to be yielding positive outcomes in the substance abuse area (Groves & Farmer, 1994;Linehan et al, 1999;Marlatt, 2002;Simpson et al, 1998).…”

Buddhist Approaches to Addiction Recovery

“…The cultivation of increased attention through mindfulness suggested itself as a possible adjunct to relapse prevention work in addiction [2]. Given that addiction, like depression, is associated with a high relapse rate, the emphasis on relapse prevention in MBCT offered a possible approach to preventing relapse into addictive behaviour.…”