Neuropsychological Mechanisms and Evidence of Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Addiction

Abstract

Mindfulness meditation is a contemplative practice that involves focused attention and open monitoring. Due to its effectiveness in emotion regulation and attention regulation, mindfulness-based interventions combine mindfulness and other cognitive and behavioral practices to treat substance abuse and behavioral disorders. This article focuses on the neuropsychological mechanisms and empirical research of mindfulness-oriented recovery enhancement (MORE) and mindfulness-based relapse prevention (MBRP). MORE is a cognitive-behavioral treatment that uses mindfulness to cultivate reappraisal and savoring skills. MBRP is another cognitive-behavioral treatment that incorporates mindfulness meditation and core components of relapse prevention. It analyzes the neural mechanism of addiction, mindfulness, and mindfulness-based interventions. Moreover, it provides empirical research evidence of MORE and MBRP, proving that these two are effective treatments for addiction-related problems, including substance abuse and behavioral disorders.