By Eman Gibson, MBA, LCSW, LCADC, Chief Clinical Officer
We at Integrity House are constantly exploring and evaluating best practices in and innovative approaches to the treatment of substance use disorders (SUDs) and pathways to long-term recovery.
The use of both psychosocial and medication-assisted treatments has proven remarkably effective for treating SUDs and show significant success, particularly in the initial treatment phase. However, we are finding that interventions that more directly address core mental processes and triggers can enhance the effectiveness of these treatments. Treating and managing this “emotional dysregulation” – a psychological or physical impairment that sets off things like cravings and stress – can be key to achieving lasting recovery.
At Integrity House, we’ve been working to implement a program of “mindfulness-based stress reduction,” utilizing techniques pioneered by Jon Kabat-Zinn. Ph.D., and as researched and implemented by Dr. Suchismita Ray, Ph.D., Associate Professor in the Department of Health Informatics at the School of Health Professions at Rutgers University’s School of Biomedical and Health Sciences. Mindfulness-based stress reduction is a mind-body complementary health approach that uses intentional awareness, in the present, in a non-judgmental manner to recognize and improve dysregulation, impulse control, mood, and physical health, subsequently reducing triggering events for relapse to opioid use.
We are fortunate to host Dr. Ray in our inaugural “Virtual Lunch & Learn” series on Tuesday, October 25, 2022, at 12:00 pm. Dr. Ray and I will discuss best practices in substance use treatment utilizing mindful-based stress reduction techniques. Dr. Ray will present her groundbreaking research on mindfulness techniques and the positive impacts on neurological functioning and well-being that result. Qualified and registered professionals can receive one (1) continuing education unit (CEU) for participation.
If you are interested in participating in this exploration of nontraditional approaches to SUD treatment, please visit https://integrityhouse.org/2022/08/virtual-lunch-and-learn-series or contact Saranya Thana at saranya_thana@integrityhouse.org.