Prevention Strategies for Addiction in Adults: An Updated Literature Review of Mindfulness and Exercise-Based Strategies

Abstract

Addiction and subsequent substance use disorders, represent a substantial and global public health challenge that requires novel interventions. Although many treatment strategies are available, these conditions are often underdiagnosed. Therefore, prevention strategies represent a more desirable approach for targeting addiction in adults. These interventions rely on behavioural changes that can often prove challenging to implement, particularly in those with recurring substance use disorders. Several effective treatment approaches have been devised that focus on altering these behaviours, including mindfulness-based interventions and cognitive behavioural therapies. However, the evidence concerning the long-term implications of these techniques is limited, with many studies noting that the beneficial outcomes observed in short-term investigations are often not replicated in the long term. Future research should, therefore, incorporate large scale randomised controlled trials to enhance our comprehension of the effectiveness of addiction prevention strategies, including mindfulness-based therapies and regular physical activity.