Mindfulness-based methods are gaining popularity as an approach to dealing with substance use behaviors. Studies show these approaches can help lower stress, manage emotions, and support lasting recovery. A clinical trial published in the Journal of the American Medical Association Psychiatry found that people in mindfulness-based relapse prevention had a 54% lower risk of returning to drug use and a 59% lower risk of heavy drinking compared to those in treatment-as-usual during follow-up (Bowen et al., 2014).
Social Model Recovery Systems’ adult and adolescent outpatient programs, Mid Valley Outpatient (MVOP) and Pasadena Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (PCADD), use Mindfulness-Based Substance Abuse Treatment (MBSAT) to complement individual counseling, group sessions, and contingency management programs. In order to create a well-rounded system for each participant’s recovery journey, staff are trained to support effective MBSAT implementation. This approach builds self-awareness and essential coping skills that are important to learn during adolescence.
To engage adolescents who may benefit from practicing mindfulness, program directors Gerry Barraza and Joanna Gomez recently participated in Bassett High School’s Wellness Expo. They delivered presentations on MBSAT for adolescents that highlighted emotional regulation, stress management, and healthy decision-making to students in the classroom setting. These sessions encouraged open discussion and self-reflection, helping students consider how mindfulness can support daily life.
During their presentation, Gerry and Joanna covered the core principles of MBSAT, focusing on present-moment awareness, non-judgmental observation of thoughts and feelings, and acceptance and self-compassion to develop healthier responses to stress. They guided students through practical techniques such as breathing exercises, body-scan meditation, mindful movement, and journaling to bring these concepts to life.
Adolescence is a period of rapid brain development, intense emotions, and impulsive behavior, making it a crucial time to introduce mindfulness. Teaching these skills to teens helps them understand themselves deeper, manage stress better, and make healthier choices. This supports their current well-being and sets them up for lasting resilience by building a strong foundation for the future.
