Mindfulness meditation and substance use in an incarcerated population.
Psychology of Addictive Behaviors August 28, 2006 Sarah Bowen, Katie Witkiewitz, Tiara Dillworth et al. 495 citations
A Vipassana meditation course given in jail led to significant reductions in alcohol, marijuana, and crack cocaine use after release, compared to standard treatment. Participants also experienced fewer alcohol-related problems and psychiatric symptoms, along with improvements in positive psychosocial outcomes. The findings suggest mindfulness-based practices offer a viable alternative for individuals who have not succeeded with or do not wish to attend traditional addiction treatments.