Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement for Alcohol Dependence: Therapeutic Mechanisms and Intervention Acceptability

• NCJ Number: 241862
• Journal: Journal of Social Work Practice in the Addictions Volume: 12 Issue: 3 Dated: July-September 2012 Pages: 242-263
• Author(s): Eric L. Garland, Ph.D., L.C.S.W.; Noah R. Schwarz, B.A.; Amber Kelly, L.C.S.W.; Ahmed Whitt, M.S.W.; Matthew O. Howard, Ph.D.
• Date Published: September 2012
• Length: 22 pages
• Grant Number(s): DA032517; T32AT003378
• Sponsoring Agency: National Institute on Drug Abuse; Francisco J. Varela Research Grant; National Ctr for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM)
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined mindfulness-based interventions can decrease addictive behaviors while promoting nonreactivity to stressors.

Abstract

Mindfulness-based interventions can decrease addictive behaviors while promoting nonreactivity to stressors. This study employed qualitative methods to enhance understanding of mindfulness-related treatment effects. Study participants were 18 alcohol-dependent adults residing in a therapeutic community who had participated in a mindfulness-oriented recovery enhancement (MORE) intervention. Interviews were conducted to elicit participant narratives. Responses to open-ended questions were analyzed using a grounded theory approach and the method of constant comparison. Narrative accounts suggested that MORE enhanced self-awareness while helping clients to cope more effectively with emotional distress and addictive impulses. MORE appears to be acceptable to participants and feasible to implement within a residential treatment setting. Mindfulness training could assist marginalized persons in recovering from addiction. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.