ABSTRACT
Chronic stress causes long-lasting neurochemical and endocrine imbalances which prolong psychological distress and impair coping abilities. Studies indicate these factors contribute to drug abuse. The Transcendental Meditation (TM) program appears to reverse these effects, providing a natural route to the experiences abusers are looking for–relief from distress and enhancement of well-being. Centered around stress, this article builds a neuroendocrine theory of addiction and of how the mental technology of TM counters addictive behaviors. The article first outlines the theory in general terms (Part I), then examines evidence for its various components (Parts II and III), and finally provides a concise summary and conclusions (Part IV).
