Mindfulness and Meditation-Based Relapse Prevention for Substance Use Disorders

Observational Case Series of Mindfulness- and Meditation-Based Relapse Prevention for Substance Use Disorders (MBRP-SUD)

Mindfulness and meditation based relapse prevention has been proposed as an adjunctive approach for individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs). This completed pilot observational case series describes outcomes from three de-identified participants who completed an eight-week mindfulness and meditation program designed to reduce stress, enhance coping skills, and support sustained recovery.

Participants demonstrated improvements in perceived stress and mindfulness following the intervention. Two participants experienced relapse within 10-12 months, while one participant maintained long-term sobriety. This small case series provides descriptive clinical insights and supports the feasibility of mindfulness-based interventions in real-world treatment settings.

This pilot observational case series evaluated an eight-week mindfulness and meditation-based relapse prevention program delivered to three de-identified adults with substance use disorders. The intervention included weekly guided mindfulness sessions, daily home practice, and group discussions focused on awareness of cravings, emotional regulation, and relapse prevention strategies.

Outcomes were assessed using self-reported perceived stress and mindfulness measures, along with qualitative clinical interviews and participant journals to monitor relapse behavior. All participants demonstrated improvements in perceived stress and mindfulness. Relapse occurred in two participants within one year, while one participant maintained long-term sobriety.

This study was exploratory and descriptive in nature, with a small sample size. Ethics review was not required as all participants were de-identified and the study was conducted as a clinical case series. Findings are intended to inform future research and larger-scale studies of mindfulness-based relapse prevention interventions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults aged 18 years or older
• History of substance use disorder (any substance)
• Enrolled in or referred to an eight-week mindfulness and meditation-based relapse prevention program
• Willing and able to participate in weekly guided sessions, daily home practice, and group discussions
• Able to provide self-reported information on stress, mindfulness, and relapse experiences

Exclusion Criteria:

• Individuals under 18 years of age
• Inability or unwillingness to participate in mindfulness or meditation exercises
• Severe cognitive impairment or psychiatric condition preventing participation in group or home practice
• Participation in concurrent structured relapse prevention programs outside of this study