A review of the literature supports the theory that individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) frequently exhibit impaired skills in executive function (EF) which negatively impact treatment retention and efficacy. EF is a higher-level cognitive process that requires interconnected communication throughout the entire brain to function properly. Current research suggests metacognitive strategy instruction and skill generalization may be effective approaches to cognitive rehabilitation in the OUD population. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a multifaceted EF training program for young people in recovery from OUD. Additionally, it is the investigator’s hypothesis that improved EF skills will decrease levels of depression, anxiety, and stress, which have been associated with limited EF skills (Werchan & Amso, 2017). Four young adults (ages18-26) in recovery from OUD were recruited from sober living homes. An A-B single case research design was used to determine if a metacognitive approach to EF skill development with an emphasis on generalization of skills would positively impact performance on measures of executive function and thereby decrease levels of depression, anxiety and stress. The participants completed 30-minute sessions of alternating EF remediation and skill generalization activities using RehaCom®, a computer-based cognitive rehabilitation program, that took place over 12 consecutive days. Visual analysis of the data revealed overall improved performance in EF skills as well as decreased levels of depression, stress, and anxiety. Participants indicated the program was helpful and useful in their recovery.
Keywords: cognitive rehabilitation, substance use disorder, depression, stress, anxiety, impairment, therapy, remediation, prefrontal cortex
