Meditation Therapy
Meditation Therapy in Addiction Treatment
Many people in the United States and around the world struggle with substance use disorder (SUD). Drug and alcohol use can impact every part of your life, including your health and relationships.
Substance use disorder (SUD) isn’t just a physical condition. It also involves genetics, behaviors, emotions, environment, and more. People with SUD require comprehensive, compassionate treatment that addresses the roots of substance use.
Meditation is a powerful tool people can learn and use throughout recovery. Studies show that meditation and other holistic therapies can support longer-lasting recoveries.
This article will explore how to use meditation therapy in addiction treatment. You will learn:
- What meditation therapy is
- The benefits of meditation therapy in substance use recovery
- How mindfulness meditation fits into addiction treatment
- Where to find holistic addiction treatment
If you or someone you love struggles with SUD, you are not alone. Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn about our treatment and recovery support programs. Reach out with questions, to verify your insurance, or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Meditation Therapy?
You may have an idea of what meditation is from movies or TV. Many people believe meditation involves sitting quietly for long periods. It might be hard to imagine how doing this could help you recover from SUD.
However, meditation therapy is much more than simply sitting still for hours. Practicing mindfulness involves a wide range of practices.
First, there is meditation. There are two types of meditation: mindfulness meditation and concentrative meditation. Mindfulness meditation encourages people to focus on the present moment instead of thinking about the past or future.
Concentrative meditation involves shifting one’s focus to an object, mantra, or breath. It can reduce stress and help one remain grounded in the present.
People can use other types of mindfulness techniques to soothe the mind. Mindfulness practice may include:
- Body scans
- Guided imagery
- Mindful walking or eating
- Tai chi
- Yoga
- Mindul art and writing exercises
- Mantra meditations
Studies show that people who include mindfulness in their daily lives may have lower stress levels, less chronic pain, and better control over their emotions and behaviors. People in recovery may benefit from including a meditation practice in their treatment plans.
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What are the Benefits of Meditation in Substance Use Recovery?
Medication therapy can be a powerful tool people can use in their work toward long-term recovery. Many of the benefits of meditation can help people improve their health and well-being while overcoming SUD.
Here is an overview of some of the benefits of meditation therapy.
Stress is one of the biggest relapse triggers for people in recovery. Research shows that regular meditation can help people to feel calmer. Meditation can reduce blood pressure, lower cortisol levels, and slow heart rate and breathing. People who learn to meditate gain an effective way to reduce overall stress and maintain calm during challenges.
Meditation can help people stay grounded in the present moment. Instead of regretting the past or feeling anxious about the future, people can use meditation and mindfulness to calm their minds and bodies. This tool can reduce impulsive behaviors and give people better control over their emotions.
Research shows that meditation can increase the activation of the prefrontal cortex. More activity in this area of the brain can lead to better memory, longer attention, and improved self-awareness.
There are many benefits to incorporating meditation into a recovery program. Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn more about how using mindfulness in recovery can help you sustain your sobriety for life.
How Does Meditation Fit Into a SUD Recovery Plan?
SUD is a complex condition involving your mind, body, relationships, environment, past experiences, and more. People living with SUD require comprehensive programs to address the roots of their condition.
Comprehensive treatment programs may include holistic therapies like meditation, yoga, tai chi, and mindfulness. People may engage in holistic therapies that complement their treatment plans.
An addiction treatment plan may occur in an outpatient or inpatient setting. A general treatment plan might include:
- Assessments and screenings
- Behavioral therapies
- Individual, family, and group therapy
- Relapse prevention education
- Aftercare planning
A treatment center may include meditation and mindfulness therapies in a person’s treatment program, or people can participate in this type of treatment individually throughout recovery.
Anyone can develop a dependence on drugs or alcohol. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of SUD.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love struggles with SUD, seek treatment right away. Find the comprehensive treatment and support you need at Blue Star Recovery. Our holistic treatment and recovery support programs are designed to help you overcome SUD and move forward. Contact our intake specialists today to make an intake appointment or learn more.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Mindfulness meditation in the treatment of substance use disorders and preventing future relapse: neurocognitive mechanisms and clinical implications
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: Meditation and Mindfulness: Effectiveness and Safety
- NIH: Mindfulness-based Relapse Prevention for Substance Use Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
