Effects of an exercise theory-based intervention program on craving during the early stage of adults' SUD treatment

Abstract

In recent years, exercise has become increasingly popular in the treatment of substance use disorders (SUD). The present study examined the short-term effects of an exercise intervention on drug craving, mood states, self-esteem, quality of life, and treatment engagement at the early-stage of SUD treatment. Fifty-four adults, using multiple substances, newly entries into an inpatient treatment setting, were non-randomly assigned to a structured 4-week exercise intervention group (Ex + TaUG) and a treatment as usual group (TaUG). Self-reported assessments were used before and after the intervention. Repeated-measures analyses of variance (ANOVA) were applied to assess possible differences between time, group, and interaction between time and group. Results showed that the Ex + TaUG demonstrated higher scores on self-esteem, quality of life, and treatment engagement, and lower scores on craving and mood state (anxiety, depression, and stress) compared to TaUG after the implementation of the physical exercise intervention protocol (p < .05). The outcomes of the present study provide initial evidence that a targeted and properly designed exercise delivery, which is adapted to the needs of the various and decisive treatment stages, may offer specific benefits to individuals living with SUD.