Title : Effectiveness of Mindfulness Integrated Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (MiCBT) on life satisfaction, self-esteem and craving among patients with substance abuse: A randomized control trial
Abstract:
Background: Substance abuse is a significant public health concern in India, like in many other parts of the world. It involves the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs. India has a limited number of treatment and rehabilitation centers for individuals struggling with substance abuse. Mindfulness Integrated Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (MiCBT) is an intervention that combines mindfulness practices with cognitive-behavioural therapy techniques. This therapy aims to help individuals become more aware of their thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations, and to develop more effective strategies for coping with difficult experiences.
Aim: This study is the first study to examine the effectiveness of MiCBT was improving life satisfaction, self-esteem, and reducing cravings among patients with substance abuse in a mental health care setting in India.
Methods: A randomized controlled trial was used. The study population consists of adult patients (age 18 years and above) diagnosed with substance abuse. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: the experimental group (MiCBT; n=50) and the control group (Treatment as usual [TAU]; n=50) using a computer-generated randomization sequence. The intervention group received eight weekly MiCBT sessions, each lasting for 90 minutes, while the control group will receive treatment as usual. The Craving, Life Satisfaction and Self-esteem of participants were measured at baseline socio-demographic and clinical data, immediately after the intervention, at three-month follow-up and six-month follow-up using the Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale, Satisfaction with Life Scale, Brief substance craving scale and Mindfulness-Based Self Efficacy Scale-Revised (MSES-R) respectively. Data was analyzed using the SPSS 29.0 version.
Results: Findings showed that MiCBT significantly improves life satisfaction, self-esteem, and reduces cravings among patients with substance abuse. The results contributed to the development of evidence-based treatment options for patients with substance abuse.
Conclusion: Overall, the present study suggests that MiCBT was an effective intervention for individuals with substance abuse, particularly when co-occurring mental health issues are present. MiCBT helps individuals develop greater self-awareness and emotional regulation skills, which can support long-term recovery and reduce the risk of relapse.
Keywords: Mindfulness, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, MiCBT, Life Satisfaction, Self-esteem, Craving and Substance Abuse.
