Virtual Reality & Mindfulness: A New Hope for Opioid Recovery
Episode Overview
MORE-VR combines mindfulness training with virtual reality to treat opioid use disorder. Participants experienced a significant reduction in opioid use and cravings. Self-help groups positively impact treatment completion rates. Availability of opioid agonist treatment varies significantly among facilities. Psychedelic treatments show promise for depressive symptoms.
Imagine tackling cravings while virtually standing by a waterfall - intriguing, right?
Ever wondered how virtual reality could play a role in addiction recovery? This episode of 'This Week in Addiction Medicine from ASAM' dives into the fascinating world of Virtual Reality-Based Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE-VR) and its potential as an adjunct to medications for opioid use disorder. The study discussed explores the feasibility of delivering mindfulness training through VR, with participants choosing serene settings like beaches or forests for their meditation sessions.
Imagine tackling cravings while virtually standing by a waterfall - intriguing, right? Host Zach Caruso shares that the trial included eight weekly one-hour MORE-VR sessions, and the results were promising. A significant number of participants completed the sessions, and there was a notable decrease in opioid use and cravings. The episode also covers other important studies, such as the impact of self-help groups on treatment completion rates and the availability of opioid agonist treatment in residential facilities.
The insights into these studies provide a comprehensive look at the current state of addiction medicine. The discussion extends to traditional medicine, culture, and psychedelic science, examining new pathways for recovery from substance use disorders. You’ll also hear about the comparative effectiveness of various treatments for depressive symptoms, including psychedelics and traditional antidepressants. With engaging and informative content, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge for anyone interested in addiction medicine.
If you're curious about innovative treatments and the latest research in addiction recovery, this episode is a must-listen. The combination of cutting-edge technology and mindfulness techniques presents a hopeful future for those battling opioid use disorder.