Mindfulness practices have been shown to be very effective in the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction, particularly when combined with evidence-based cognitive therapies. Cognitive therapies seek to address the negative thoughts, feelings and emotions driving addictive behavior, while mindfulness heals the mind, body and spirit. This combined approach offers holistic addiction healing through mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, or MBCT, to promote better recovery outcomes.
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy in Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment
MBCT involves breathing and meditation aspects of mindfulness with cognitive therapy to help patients break away from the negativity driving their addictive behavior. There is a strong correlation between addiction and mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety. MBCT therapists provide patients with tools they can use as coping mechanism to protect their sobriety by fending off depression before it can take hold. Because of the strong link between mental illness and addiction, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy is very beneficial in improving the symptoms of mental health conditions.
This can make a significant difference to the chances of an individual enjoying a long-term recovery as it addresses their addiction on an emotional and psychological level. Many people use drugs or alcohol to help them cope with mental illness, whereas others develop the symptoms as a direct result of substance abuse. No matter what the origins of a person’s addiction issues, MBCT has been shown to have distinct advantages in the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction.
A typical MBCT therapy session involves learning meditation techniques along with the basics of cognition such as the relationship between the way someone thinks and how they feel. Patients also have the opportunity of learning more about addiction illness, with homework assignments involving research along with practical exercises in deep-breathing and mindful meditation.
Find Out about Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy at CASA Recovery in Orange County
Today, we have a greater understanding of drug and alcohol addiction and there are now numerous treatment approaches available. CASA Recovery offers personalized drug and alcohol rehab programs that include evidence-based therapies like MBCT to enhance the chances of long-term recovery. Find out more about how we can help you or your loved one with addiction by contacting CASA Recovery in confidence at our center in San Juan Capistrano, CA today.