The Effectiveness of Group Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Structured Matrix Treatment on Quit Addiction Self-efficacy, Distress Tolerance, and Mindfulness in Individuals with Stimulant Drug Abuse

Abstract

Background: Drug abuse causes irreversible damage to human health at both micro and macro levels among the aggravating problems of human society. Objectives: This research aimed to evaluate the role of group dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and structured matrix treatment (SMT) on quit addiction self-efficacy, distress tolerance, and mindfulness in individuals with stimulant drug abuse. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was based on a pretest-posttest design with test and control groups. The population included drug abusers referring to the centers of addiction rehabilitation affiliated with the Social Welfare Department, Ahvaz, Iran, in 2021. A total of 75 individuals were selected using convenience sampling and allocated to one control group and two experimental groups. Participants in all three groups completed the Distress Tolerance Scale (DTS), the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), and the Quit Addiction Self-efficacy Questionnaire. The first experimental groups underwent eight sessions (90-minute sessions per week) of group DBT. The SMT was performed on the second experimental group for fourteen 90-minute sessions, and the control group did not receive any training. Then, the data were analyzed statistically using the multivariate analysis of covariance. Results: DBT and SMT groups increased quit addiction self-efficacy, distress tolerance, and mindfulness in the experimental group compared to the control group (P < 0.001). There was a significant difference between DBT and SMT groups regarding distress tolerance in the individuals with stimulant drug abuse (P = 0.020). Conclusions: Based on the results, DBT and SMT were effective in quitting addiction self-efficacy, distress tolerance, and mindfulness among drug abusers, improved psychological states, and reduced drug abuse in individuals.