Maximizing recovery through the promotion of mindfulness and spirituality

Abstract

ABSTRACTSpirituality is generally regarded as a protective factor against the initiation of substance use and may be effective in enhancing recovery and promoting abstinence. Preliminary studies on the effects of mindfulness practices on relapse prevention for substance use and behavioral addictions have shown promise. This study sought to determine whether elevated levels of mindfulness were linked to increased spirituality and subsequently decreased the warning signs of relapse among individuals in substance use treatment. Path analysis with bootstrapping methods indicated that there was a direct negative effect between mindfulness and warning signs of relapse, which supported the utility of mindfulness in relapse reduction. Mindfulness also enhanced spirituality, but there was an unexpected positive effect between spirituality and warning signs of relapse. These results provide evidence for the effectiveness of mindfulness to increase spirituality and add to our knowledge of the relationship between mindfulness, spirituality, and relapse. Recognizing that there is increased interest regarding the integration of a spiritual domain within behavioral treatment modalities, it is critical that implementation happen in an informed manner. The findings of this study should be considered in clinical settings as well as in the development of future research on mindfulness and spirituality in substance use recovery.