Mindfulness-based relapse prevention vs treatment as usual for substance misuse clients

Abstract

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th edition (DSM-V) defines Substance Use Disorder (SUD) as a chronic relapsing condition. SUD hinders individuals from functioning optimally. Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP) was introduced to aid individuals to better their coping mechanisms. Thus, reducing cravings for illicit substances and preventing relapse. (Brewer et al., 2014). The research question is as follows: “Are Mindfulness-Based Interventions more effective than TAU for relapse prevention in Substance Misuse Clients?” Originally the research question was to be addressed through a PEO framework. However, the research design of the selected studies which yielded the best evidence available which were systemic reviews and RCT’s. Therefore, it was decided that the research question would be better addressed using a PICO format. The inclusion criteria involved peer reviewed research papers about MBRP in substance misuse clients, published n the last ten years in the English language. On the other hand, exclusion criteria included articles that do not have SUD, including children and adolescents and grey literature. For the literature search, the HyDi platform and Google Scholar search engine were used. Six articles were selected and appraised through the use of the Oxford Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP, 2018). The main findings indicate the efficacy of Mindfulness Based Interventions (MBI) in reducing cravings for alcohol and substance use and preventing relapse when compared to treatment as usual. The main conclusion derived from this dissertation is that MBRP has shown to be effective for clients with SUD in preventing relapse when compared to the usual treatment modalities. The main implication regarding this dissertation is that locally, MBRP is not an intervention included in the management of SUD. Recommendations for clinical practice, education and policymakers were outlined. One suggestion that stood out in every study is that further research regarding MBRP in SUD need to occur.