Mindfulness Interventions and Meditation at Creative Care
Meditation and other mindfulness interventions are a powerful means of increasing self-awareness and bridging the mind-body divide. Individuals struggling from co-occurring substance use disorders often speak of cravings as a physical sensation, beyond even those of dependency. When we’ve made problematic substance use a habit, we feel compelled to use despite the rational knowledge of their negative consequences. We’re at the mercy of our emotions, clouded as they are by substance use, and react to life as we perceive it, rather than respond to it as it is. Meditation and other mindfulness interventions combat this learned reaction by bringing clients into the present moment. It’s a step towards seeing situations as they actually are rather than how they appear. We’re much more receptive to the information we’re receiving and making rational, thoughtful choices becomes much easier.
In the late 70s, Jon Kabat-Zinn pioneered the use and study of mediation as a science-based approach to mental health and research since that time has shown positive results. Marlatt and Chawla found that meditation could counteract the conditioned responses to the cravings of alcohol use disorder by heightening an individual’s awareness of the present moment. Mindfulness interventions like meditation also promote an understanding and acceptance of impermanence. Individuals who practice mindfulness learn to note their cravings as they arise and let them pass without action or judgement. A review by Sancho et al found that mindfulness interventions were effective in reducing cravings by improving mood state and emotional regulation. Additionally, it reduced symptoms of co-occurring disorders like depression and anxiety.
Meditations and other mindfulness interventions are dynamic addition to other evidence-based therapeutic methods like psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy. These strategies work synergistically to create a holistic, “whole person” solution to the problem of substance use disorders. The dual diagnosis treatment program at Creative Care blends these and other strategies in individualized treatment plans designed to give clients the best chance at a successful and sustained recovery. Our team works alongside each client to determine the most constructive means to identify and address difficulties, understand interpersonal dynamics, and develop positive coping skills in place of dysfunctional behavior. A treatment plan may also include:
- Psychodynamic therapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Activities groups
- Psychological and diagnostic testing
- Family therapy
- Trauma therapy
- Attachment-based psychotherapy
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Art therapy
- EMDR
- Yoga
Our fully equipped staff, including a consulting psychiatrist, psychotherapists, registered nurses, counselors, and other highly trained professionals, works tirelessly to get to the root of each client’s needs. If you or someone you love is struggling with mental health, please give Creative Care a call today.