A few different types of cognitive therapy can aid people who struggle with addiction. However, one type that doesn’t get a lot of attention is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). What is MBCT, and how can it help those who struggle with addiction? People are often shocked to learn that MBCT is actually a mix of cognitive therapy and meditation.
Red Oak Recovery® offers holistic healing services and programs that can aid your recovery process, provide you with a solid foundation for growth, and improve your overall quality of life. To learn more, please call us at 828.382.9699.
What Is Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy?
Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is an evidence-based approach that combines mindfulness techniques with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). It helps individuals understand how their thoughts and feelings interact, so they can better manage difficult emotions. The goal of MBCT is to help people break the cycle of negative thinking and become more aware of their present-moment experiences. Through this process, individuals learn to recognize the signs of relapse before it happens, which allows them to take steps to prevent it from occurring.
Research has shown that MBCT can effectively reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Additionally, regular practice of MBCT can promote a greater sense of well-being and resilience in everyday life. There are various ways to practice MBCT, such as through guided practices like meditation and yoga, journaling, or simply observing the breath. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy is a valuable tool for managing stress and promoting overall mental health. With dedication and practice, MBCT can be an invaluable part of maintaining mental well-being for years to come.
Is MBCT a Type of Holistic Treatment?
It’s hard for experts to label MBCT as traditional or holistic. The reason is that it incorporates the best of both worlds.
At its core, cognitive behavioral therapy is traditional psychotherapy. However, mindfulness therapy often uses holistic healing practices. Meditation therapy and yoga therapy, which are a big part of mindfulness therapy, are holistic services.
Which one does MBCT belong to? In general, it’s best to just classify MBCT as a type of therapy that makes use of both. Fortunately, mixing holistic and traditional services gives people the best chance of recovery.
The 3 Major Goals of MBCT
The main goal of MBCT is to help individuals gain control over their thoughts and emotions, develop emotional resilience, and build healthier habits for dealing with life’s challenges. It seeks to do this by helping individuals become more aware of the present moment, cultivate nonjudgmental attitudes towards their thoughts and feelings, and learn how to respond rather than react in difficult situations.
The three major goals of MBCT are:
- To identify and modify unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to depression or anxiety
- To develop compassionate self-awareness and a nonjudgmental attitude toward thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations
- To build resilience by cultivating an adaptive response to stressful situations
By addressing these goals, MBCT can teach individuals the skills they need to handle their emotions in a healthier way, reduce stress levels, and develop better coping strategies for dealing with difficult life events. Doing so can help people break free from unhealthy patterns of thinking and behavior that can lead to depression or anxiety in the long term.
MBCT is often used alongside other forms of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or acceptance commitment therapy (ACT). It can also be used on its own as a standalone treatment for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues.
The Benefits of MBCT
MBCT has been found to be effective in reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, and chronic pain. Further advantages include the following:
- Improved mental clarity: MBCT helps practitioners become more aware of the present moment, thereby increasing their ability to think clearly and make decisions.
- Increased emotional regulation: Mindfulness practices may help individuals better manage difficult emotions by enabling them to observe and accept their feelings without judging them or acting on them impulsively.
- Enhanced interpersonal relationships: Practicing MBCT can improve communication with others by teaching people how to listen more attentively and respond empathetically.
- Improved physical health: Research suggests that MBCT may reduce inflammation, improve cardiovascular functioning, and enhance immune system functioning.
MBCT is an effective therapy for individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, stress, or chronic pain. It can help to improve mental clarity, emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships, and physical health. By practicing mindfulness techniques on a regular basis and working with a qualified professional, individuals can experience the many benefits of this type of therapy.
Learn More About Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy at Red Oak Recovery®
Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is an evidence-based approach to treating mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. It combines traditional cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with mindfulness practice to help individuals better understand their thoughts and feelings. MBCT has been shown to reduce the risk of relapse in people with depression, as well as improve the quality of life for those suffering from anxiety.
At Red Oak Recovery®, we understand the importance of providing our clients with an evidence-based approach to mental health and addiction treatment. That’s why we offer MBCT as part of our comprehensive treatment plans. Call 828.382.9699 or fill out our online contact form to learn more about MBCT today.
