Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention for Substance Use Disorders: A Pilot Efficacy Trial

TLDR

The study is the first randomized‑controlled trial evaluating the feasibility and initial efficacy of an 8‑week outpatient Mindfulness‑Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP) program compared to treatment as usual (TAU). The trial enrolled 168 adults with substance use disorders who had recently completed intensive inpatient or outpatient treatment and assessed them at baseline, immediately after the 8‑week intervention, and again at 2‑ and 4‑month follow‑ups. Results showed that MBRP participants had high homework compliance, attendance, and satisfaction, and they reported significantly lower substance use, reduced craving, and greater acceptance and acting with awareness over 4 months compared to TAU.

Abstract

The current study is the first randomized-controlled trial evaluating the feasibility and initial efficacy of an 8-week outpatient Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP) program as compared to treatment as usual (TAU). Participants were 168 adults with substance use disorders who had recently completed intensive inpatient or outpatient treatment. Assessments were administered pre-intervention, post-intervention, and 2 and 4 months post-intervention. Feasibility of MBRP was demonstrated by consistent homework compliance, attendance, and participant satisfaction. Initial efficacy was supported by significantly lower rates of substance use in those who received MBRP as compared to those in TAU over the 4-month post-intervention period. Additionally, MBRP participants demonstrated greater decreases in craving, and increases in acceptance and acting with awareness as compared to TAU. Results from this initial trial support the feasibility and initial efficacy of MBRP as an aftercare approach for individuals who have recently completed an intensive treatment for substance use disorders.