How Mindfulness Supports Recovery

In recent years, mindfulness has gained traction in many circles as a way to manage thoughts, stresses, and other challenges.

In terms of recovery from addiction, alcoholism, or mental health disorders, mindfulness can be incredibly helpful. Psychology Today defines mindfulness as a return to the present moment, with a focus on self-regulation, openness, curiosity, and acceptance. In terms of recovery, mindfulness can make a powerful impact when it comes to regulating negative thoughts, controlling cravings, and much more. At Banyan Treatment Center Massachusetts, our facility is Joint Commission Accredited for alcoholism treatment, addiction treatment, mental health care, and dual diagnosis treatment in Massachusetts. We understand the necessity of mindfulness for long-term sobriety.

How Mindfulness Improves Sobriety

There are many mental and physical factors within the brain that attempt to keep addiction active within one’s life. Cravings are powerful, but they aren’t the only risk to sobriety. When an individual cannot cope with stress in a healthy way, they may wind up using drugs or alcohol, but mindfulness can help ensure this doesn’t happen. Meditation has been shown to improve grey matter within the brain. Grey matter is responsible for a wide range of functions, including higher-level thinking and reasoning. Meditation and mindfulness allow patients to experience the present moment without judgment. Additional benefits include:

• Reduction of anxiety
• Better self-control
• Treatment of depression
• Better emotional control

These benefits of mindfulness are imperative for safe and effective recovery. At Banyan Treatment Center Massachusetts, we encourage our patients to develop mindfulness habits alongside our addiction, mental health, alcoholism, and dual diagnosis treatment in Massachusetts. Mindfulness can improve the efficacy of our additional therapies and treatment approaches, giving patients the full scope of treatment that they need for long-term sobriety.