Evidence-based practices is an important term in recovery and treatment for addiction or alcoholism. For the treatment industry, there are no standards of treatment as of yet. That means, treatment heavily relies upon research and evidence of what works the most effectively. Though every treatment facility provides a unique program and most programs are individually tailored to meet the needs of each patient, there are generally some similarities. What works for one person might not work for the next. Yet, some treatment methods like cognitive behavioral therapy are considered evidence based, because the evidence proves that it works for most people.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is perhaps one of the most highly utilized therapy treatment methods used in rehabilitation facilities. The practice was developed to help patients with mental health issues work through the interwoven relationship between their thoughts, their beliefs, and their behaviors. Addiction and alcoholism, in addition to dual diagnosis issues, can create a disconnect, making it seem as though addicts have forgotten why they do certain things in a certain way. CBT is proven to help reduce stress, increase emotional manageability, and help with creating more neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to change.
New research suggests that CBT isn’t the only life-changer in the brain game. Medical Xpress reports that mindfulness is just as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy. Specifically, practicing mindfulness in a group therapy session is just as effective as practicing cognitive behavioral therapy on an individual basis.
The study found that the use of mindfulness isn’t targeted. In previous studies, mindfulness was only compared to CBT in treating anxiety and/or depression. For this study, researchers found that mindfulness can treat a “broad range of psychiatric symptoms” meaning the possibilities for benefit are limitless. Addiction and alcoholism is often co-occurring with other mental health disorders which can range from depression and anxiety to ADHD and bipolar disorder. Mindfulness promises another opportunity for people to make the most out of their treatment experience according to what works for them.
Learning how to practice mindfulness and integrate mindfulness techniques are skills which can last a lifetime and lead to lifetime recovery. Lakehouse Recovery Center incorporates integrative activities and non-recovery methods of treatment to create a fully approachable program for anyone seeking healing in their lives. For information on our residential recovery programs and our unique 12 month aftercare program, call us today at 877.762.3707.