Exercise as an Adjunctive Treatment for Substance Use Disorders-Rationale and Intervention Description

Course overview

In the present article, they describe the protocol for a novel, integrated exercise intervention that combines motivational interviewing (MI), a client-centered approach designed to enhance intrinsic motivation and resolve ambivalence towards change, and contingency management (CM), which provides incentives. Substance Use Disorders (SUD) are associated with psychiatric comorbidity, unhealthy lifestyle choices, and high rates of relapse. Exercise is associated with a wide range of acute and long-term benefits for both mental and physical health and is presently being investigated as a promising adjunctive treatment for SUD. The protocol seeks to address the challenges surrounding initiation and maintenance of an exercise program and physical activity at a level consistent with public health guidelines, particularly for sedentary patients. They conclude with considerations for the implementation of the intervention of addiction and in SUD specific clinics.