How Mindfulness Works: Identifying Mediating Variables in A Mindfulness-Based Intervention on Relapse in Substance Use Disorders

Stephanie Steinman, Fielding's School of Psychology

This study examined three variables rumination, cognitive/ behavior (CB) flexibility, and self-compassion to determine if they mediate the relationship between mindfulness and relapse on substances. Seventy-one adults diagnosed with a substance use disorder participated in an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP) aftercare group. They completed a series of questionnaires regarding the three mediating variables before and at the conclusion of the group. They also completed weekly check-in questionnaires asking about what and how much (if any) substance use they engaged in during the week. Only eight participants used substances during the 8-week group and therefore analyses related to the mediating effect could not be completed. The MBRP group did increase mindfulness, CB flexibility, and self-compassion and decreased rumination. In addition, participants reported the problems cravings/ urges caused in their lives decreased following participation in the MBRP group.