Habit Change Addiction - Reinforcement Learning and Addiction: A Digital Mindfulness Solution

App-Based Mindfulness Training Predicts Reductions in Smoking Behavior by Engaging Reinforcement Learning Mechanisms: A Preliminary Naturalistic Single-Arm StudyIn this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and colleagues explore how mindfulness-based smoking cessation tools can target the brain's reinforcement learning mechanisms to disrupt addictive behaviors. The study highlights the use of the "Craving to Quit" app, which combines mindful awareness practices with real-time feedback on cravings and their outcomes. By recalibrating the reward value of smoking through mindfulness, the app achieved significant reductions in smoking frequency among participants. Discover how this research advances our understanding of habit loops and offers scalable, innovative solutions for smoking cessation.Full Reference:Taylor, V. A., Smith, R., & Brewer, J. A. (2022). App-based mindfulness training predicts reductions in smoking behavior by engaging reinforcement learning mechanisms: A preliminary naturalistic single-arm study. Sensors, 22(14), 5131. https://doi.org/10.3390/s22145131Let's connect on Instagram

Can We Agree on What Skilled Mindfulness-Based Teaching Looks Like? Lessons from Studying the MBI:TACIn this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and Dr. Rebecca Crane explore the Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Teaching Assessment Criteria (MBI:TAC), a widely used tool for assessing the competence of mindfulness-based program (MBP) teachers. As mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) gain popularity in clinical and workplace settings, ensuring teaching integrity and program fidelity becomes increasingly important. This study tested a training model to help mindfulness teachers reliably assess MBP teaching quality. The findings show that international MBP teachers can align their understanding of teaching competence, paving the way for standardized mindfulness education. Tune in to learn how mindfulness training is evolving to maintain high standards in research and practice.Full Reference:Crane, R. S., Hecht, F. M., Brewer, J. A., Griffith, G. M., Hartogensis, W., Koerbel, L., Moran, P., Sansom, S., Yiangou, A., & Kuyken, W. (2020). Can we agree on what skilled mindfulness-based teaching looks like? Lessons from studying the MBI:TAC. Global Advances in Health and Medicine, 0(1), 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1177/2164956120964733Let's connect on Instagram

Baseline Craving Strength as a Prognostic Marker of Benefit from Smartphone App-Based Mindfulness Training for Smoking CessationIn this episode, Dr. Jud explores cutting-edge research into how baseline craving strength influences the effectiveness of smartphone app-based mindfulness training for smoking cessation. Discover how mindfulness-based programs help smokers reduce their reliance on cigarettes by disrupting the association between cravings and smoking. We discuss the role of craving strength as a potential marker for personalized treatment, key findings from the study, and implications for future smoking cessation strategies.Reference: Roos, C. R., Brewer, J. A., O'Malley, S. S., & Garrison, K. A. (2019). Baseline Craving Strength as a Prognostic Marker of Benefit from Smartphone App-Based Mindfulness Training for Smoking Cessation. Mindfulness, 10, 2165–2171. DOI: 10.1007/s12671-019-01188-6.Let's connect on Instagram

Mapping Complex Mind States: EEG Neural Substrates of Meditative Unified Compassionate AwarenessIn this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and Dr. Poppy Schoenberg explore the neural mechanisms behind advanced meditative states, specifically those linked to non-duality, emptiness, and awakened awareness. Using EEG, this study mapped brain activity during different stages of Indo-Tibetan essence-of-mind meditation, revealing decreased self-referential processing and increased executive control in regions such as the anterior cingulate cortex and insula. The findings suggest that meditative states of deep compassion and awareness involve distinct neural patterns, challenging conventional models of consciousness. Tune in to discover how meditation transforms the brain and fosters selfless awareness.Full Reference:Schoenberg, P. L. A., Rufa, A., Churchill, J., Brown, D. P., & Brewer, J. A. (2018). Mapping complex mind states: EEG neural substrates of meditative unified compassionate awareness. Consciousness and Cognition, 57, 41–53. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.concog.2017.11.003Let's connect on Instagram

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Psychosocial Interventions for Persons with Comorbid Anxiety and Substance Use DisordersIn this episode, Dr. Jud dives into the comprehensive findings of a meta-analysis on psychosocial interventions for individuals facing the dual challenge of anxiety and substance use disorders. This research sheds light on the efficacy of treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and integrated care in addressing anxiety, alcohol consumption, and substance use. Join us as we explore the transformative potential of these interventions, the complexities of treating co-occurring conditions, and the pressing gaps in research for broader substance categories like opioids and methamphetamines.Reference: Nardi, W. R., Kelly, P., Roy, A., Becker, S., Brewer, J., & Sun, S. (2024). A systematic review and meta-analysis of psychosocial interventions for persons with comorbid anxiety and substance use disorders. Journal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment, 165, 209442. DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2024.209442Let's connect on Instagram

A Computational Account of Borderline Personality Disorder: Impaired Predictive Learning About Self and Others Through Bodily SimulationIn this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer, Dr. Sarah Fineberg, and Dr. Philip Corlett explore an innovative computational psychiatry model of borderline personality disorder (BPD). Social dysfunction is a core feature of BPD, and this study proposes that individuals with BPD struggle with predictive learning about self and others due to deficits in embodied simulation—using one's own bodily experiences to infer the mental states of others. The discussion covers how computational models can help explain emotional dysregulation, attachment disruptions, and the instability of interpersonal relationships in BPD, offering new insights into treatment approaches. Tune in to discover how neuroscience, machine learning, and psychiatry intersect to deepen our understanding of personality disorders.Full Reference:Fineberg, S. K., Steinfeld, M., Brewer, J. A., & Corlett, P. R. (2014). A computational account of borderline personality disorder: Impaired predictive learning about self and others through bodily simulation. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 5, 111. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2014.00111Let's connect on Instagram

Mindfulness Training and Stress Reactivity in Substance Abuse: Results from a Randomized, Controlled Stage I Pilot StudyIn this episode, Dr. Jud delves into groundbreaking research comparing mindfulness training (MT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for individuals with substance use disorders. This pilot study investigates the role of mindfulness in managing stress and addiction, highlighting its potential to reduce psychological and physiological stress responses. Learn how MT could become a viable treatment option alongside traditional therapies, the challenges faced during the study, and what these findings mean for the future of addiction treatment.Reference: Brewer, J. A., Sinha, R., Chen, J. A., Michalsen, R. N., Babuscio, T. A., Nich, C., ... & Rounsaville, B. J. (2009). Mindfulness Training and Stress Reactivity in Substance Abuse: Results from a Randomized, Controlled Stage I Pilot Study. Substance Abuse, 30(4), 306-317. DOI: 10.1080/08897070903250241Let's connect on Instagram

Mindfulness and Cardiovascular Disease Risk: State of the Evidence, Plausible Mechanisms, and Theoretical FrameworkIn this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and Dr. Eric Loucks explore the growing body of research on mindfulness and its potential role in reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. With CVD remaining the leading cause of mortality worldwide, this integrative review examines how mindfulness may impact key risk factors such as smoking, diet, physical activity, obesity, blood pressure, and diabetes regulation. The discussion also unpacks the plausible mechanisms—improved attention control, emotion regulation, and self-awareness—that could explain mindfulness’s effects on heart health. Tune in to discover how mindfulness could be a game-changer for preventive cardiology and overall well-being.Full Reference:Loucks, E. B., Schuman-Olivier, Z., Britton, W. B., Fresco, D. M., Desbordes, G., Brewer, J. A., & Fulwiler, C. (2015). Mindfulness and cardiovascular disease risk: State of the evidence, plausible mechanisms, and theoretical framework. Current Cardiology Reports, 17(112). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11886-015-0668-7Let's connect on Instagram

Awareness, Affect, and Craving During Smoking Cessation: An Experience Sampling StudyIn this episode of the Dr. Jud podcast, we explore the groundbreaking study on how mindfulness impacts smoking cessation. Researchers examined the role of awareness, positive and negative affect, and craving through an experience sampling method. With real-time data from smokers using a mindfulness-based app, the study reveals fascinating insights into how awareness can influence craving, mood, and smoking behavior. Join Dr. Jud and his guests as they unpack the findings and discuss the potential of mindfulness to transform smoking cessation efforts.Reference: Sala, M., Roos, C. R., Brewer, J. A., & Garrison, K. A. (2021). Awareness, Affect, and Craving During Smoking Cessation: An Experience Sampling Study. Health Psychology. https://doi.org/10.1037/hea0001105Let's connect on Instagram

Contemplating Mindfulness at Work: An Integrative ReviewIn this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and his colleagues explore the growing impact of mindfulness in the workplace. As organizations like Google, Aetna, and the U.S. Army integrate mindfulness programs, research is uncovering how mindfulness enhances attention, emotional regulation, decision-making, and resilience. This study presents a comprehensive framework linking mindfulness to key workplace outcomes, including performance, leadership, teamwork, and employee well-being. Whether you’re a leader, employee, or researcher, tune in to discover how mindfulness is reshaping the way we work, manage stress, and cultivate healthier workplace cultures.Full Reference:Good, D. J., Lyddy, C. J., Glomb, T. M., Bono, J. E., Brown, K. W., Duffy, M. K., Baer, R. A., Brewer, J. A., & Lazar, S. W. (2015). Contemplating Mindfulness at Work: An Integrative Review. Journal of Management, 20(XX), 1–29. https://doi.org/10.1177/0149206315617003Let's connect on Instagram