Did you know that approximately half the people who enter addiction treatment use a toxic substance within a year? That’s a staggering statistic, but unfortunately, substance abuse is often incredibly hard to overcome. It’s human nature to seek pleasure, but when that pleasure interferes with your ability to provide a safe and productive life for you and your family, it’s time to seek out professional help. If you’re struggling with substance abuse and searching for answers, you may have run across mindfulness practices as a way to manage your addiction. If you’ve asked yourself: “Can mindfulness meditation work for addiction?” you can find out more about the practice below.
What Is Mindfulness Meditation?
Mindfulness meditation is simple, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to master. When you practice mindfulness, you practice being fully present in the moment. You don’t let your mind wander or become overly reactive to any given situation. Instead, you practice intentional thought processes that help you recognize and tolerate negative feelings, so that you’re able to make healthier, well-informed decisions.
Can Mindfulness Meditation Work for Addiction?
If you’re wondering can mindfulness meditation work for addiction, the answer ultimately depends on the individual and whether they’re able to maintain the practice. Before anyone can truly conquer an addiction, they must understand the underlying emotional cause of it.
Mindfulness meditation is successful for many people who struggle with substance abuse because it allows individuals to clearly define what’s causing their suffering. More importantly, it helps them developmental patterns to eliminate suffering along with the damaging coping mechanisms they’ve developed to manage their pain.
Traditional substance abuse treatment typically zeroes in on ways you can control or avoid triggers that push you to abuse toxic substances. Mindfulness meditation, on the other hand, focuses on developing a deep awareness of your thoughts, surroundings, and emotions rather than avoiding or controlling them.
Through practicing this type of deep psychological healing, you learn to accept your emotions rather than control them, which ultimately allows you to learn to tolerate cravings and urges. More importantly, mindfulness work allows you to recognize and tolerate the negative emotions that cause your cravings, thereby allowing you to maintain freedom from your addiction.
Although mindfulness meditation is effective for learning how to handle your own emotions, for most people, the practice is best combined with conventional therapies to achieve long-term recovery.
What Are Your Treatment Options?
If you’re struggling with addiction, to overcome it, practicing mindfulness can be incredibly beneficial. However, for many people, mindfulness may not be enough to combat the deeper repercussions of substance abuse.
Addiction can take a tremendous toll on both your body and mind. Without professional guidance, finding your way out of a dark place can be a struggle. At Westwind Recovery®, we strive to make the treatment process as fun and inclusive as possible. This is true no matter who walks through our doors. Therefore, we offer a wide variety of therapies designed to encourage long-term sobriety, including:
- Drug and alcohol detox center
- Addiction treatment therapy
- Trauma therapy
- Adventure therapy and art therapy
- Mental health treatment programs
- Family therapy
- Chronic pain management programs
- Dual diagnosis treatment
Can Mindfulness Meditation Work for Addiction? Discover More at Westwind Recovery®
If you’re struggling with a substance abuse problem and asking yourself: “Can mindfulness meditation work for addiction?” reaching out for professional help is the first step on the road to a successful recovery. At Westwind Recovery®, we strive to maintain an inclusive, understanding environment. We’re a place where you can feel safe to express yourself. Also, you’ll learn healthy new habits that you’ll carry with you for life. No matter what you’re going through, please know that you never have to face it alone. Our compassionate team is here for you. We truly believe that anyone can achieve long-term recovery success with the right therapy team and tool at their fingertips.
So if you’re ready to reach out and take the first courageous step toward a healthier, happier future, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at 855.340.8832 for more information about your treatment options.
Dr. Deena is the Chief Clinical Officer of Westwind Recovery®, an award-winning outpatient treatment center in Los Angeles where she oversees the clinical and administrative program and treatment methods. Dr. Deena is a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker since 1993. LCSW #20628. Originally from the East Coast, Dr. Deena has worked running treatment centers, worked as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals as well as school settings and currently has a thriving private practice in the LA area. Dr. Deena has appeared regularly on the Dr. Phil Show as an expert since 2003. She has also been featured on many other TV shows, podcasts and has contributed to written publications as well as podcasts.
