A Narrative Review of Third-Wave Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies in Addiction

Abstract

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a prevalent health issue with serious social and personal consequences. SUDs are linked to numerous physical health problems. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5th Edition (DSM-V), the essential characteristic of a SUD is a collection of cognitive, behavioral, and psychological manifestations indicative of the subject's unbaiting substance use despite experiencing significant problems due to continued use. Several alternative interventions have been indicated. Among them, mindfulness-based therapies are receiving growing attention. This article reviews evidence for the use of third-wave cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBTs) in addiction treatment. We have reviewed the literature published from 1990 to 2019. Further research is required to better understand the types of mindfulness-based interventions that work best for specific types of addiction, patients, and situations. Current findings increasingly support third-wave CBTs as a promising complementary therapy for the treatment and prevention of addiction.

Keywords: Addiction; Cognitive-behavioral therapy; Meditation; Mindfulness; Substance-related disorders.

Figure 1

Mindfulness-based approaches are involved in the treatment of addiction with several possible mechanisms. 1) Mindfulness training has been associated with reduced reactivity to craving cues. 2) During mindful attention, the functional relationship between the brain’s regions associated with craving is significantly reduced. 3) During mindfulness training, the individual realizes that craving is a physical sensation and has a transient nature.