Mindfulness facets relate to substance use disorder factors in veterans, but not always in expected ways. Among 159 veterans in a VA SUD treatment program, after accounting for PTSD, depression, and craving, the mindfulness facet 'observe' was linked to more frequent alcohol use, 'non-judging' to more hazardous alcohol use, and 'non-reactivity' to fewer consequences from substance use. Non-reactivity also appeared to mediate the connection between PTSD and consequences. The positive associations of observe and non-judging with worse outcomes were contrary to hypotheses, suggesting that mindfulness-based interventions for veterans with co-occurring PTSD and SUD may require careful tailoring.
Growing evidence from population surveys, observational studies, and clinical trials suggests that psychedelics may help treat substance use disorders and improve well-being, though methodological concerns limit the validity and generalizability of findings. Symptom reduction appears linked to pharmacological, spiritual, and interpersonal processes. The review calls for more transparent clinical research, larger studies tracking long-term outcomes, and greater investment in observational, naturalistic, and population-level research to address safety, real-world effectiveness, accessibility, and ethical issues, including respect for Indigenous and traditional communities.