Mindfulness and Meditation-Based Relapse Prevention for Substance Use Disorders

This pilot observational case series evaluated an eight-week mindfulness and meditation-based relapse prevention program delivered to three de-identified adults with substance use disorders. The intervention included weekly guided mindfulness sessions, daily home practice, and group discussions focused on awareness of cravings, emotional regulation, and relapse prevention strategies.

Outcomes were assessed using self-reported perceived stress and mindfulness measures, along with qualitative clinical interviews and participant journals to monitor relapse behavior. All participants demonstrated improvements in perceived stress and mindfulness. Relapse occurred in two participants within one year, while one participant maintained long-term sobriety.

This study was exploratory and descriptive in nature, with a small sample size. Ethics review was not required as all participants were de-identified and the study was conducted as a clinical case series. Findings are intended to inform future research and larger-scale studies of mindfulness-based relapse prevention interventions.

• Mindfulness and Meditation-Based Relapse Prevention Program (Behavioral): The mindfulness and meditation-based relapse prevention program consisted of an eight-week structured intervention delivered as part of routine clinical practice. Participants engaged in weekly guided mindfulness meditation sessions, daily individual home practice, and facilitated group discussions. The intervention focused on developing awareness of thoughts, emotions, cravings, and stress responses, with an emphasis on nonjudgmental observation and emotional regulation. Sessions included mindfulness exercises, breathing techniques, body awareness practices, and reflective discussion related to relapse prevention and coping strategies. The program was not designed as a randomized or controlled intervention and was implemented uniformly across participants.

Primary outcomes

• Change in Perceived Stress and Mindfulness Following Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention Program [Baseline (pre-intervention) to end of the eight-week program]: The primary outcome is the change in perceived stress and mindfulness levels in participants completing an eight-week mindfulness and meditation-based relapse prevention program. Stress was assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale and mindfulness using the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire. Observations were collected through participant journals and clinical interviews, comparing baseline to post-intervention outcomes. This outcome reflects the feasibility and potential impact of mindfulness-based practices in supporting emotional regulation and coping strategies for individuals with substance use disorders.

Sex: All, ages: 18 Years to any

Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults aged 18 years or older
* History of substance use disorder (any substance)
* Enrolled in or referred to an eight-week mindfulness and meditation-based relapse prevention program
* Willing and able to participate in weekly guided sessions, daily home practice, and group discussions
* Able to provide self-reported information on stress, mindfulness, and relapse experiences

Exclusion Criteria:

* Individuals under 18 years of age
* Inability or unwillingness to participate in mindfulness or meditation exercises
* Severe cognitive impairment or psychiatric condition preventing participation in group or home practice
* Participation in concurrent structured relapse prevention programs outside of this study

• Results publication: Rivera, Cice (2026). Mindfulness and Meditation-Based Relapse Prevention for Substance Use Disorders: Research Case Series of Three Participants. figshare. Journal contribution. https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.31302370.v1

• Cice Rivera, MS, CAP, Principal investigator, Bout Me Healing