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Relaxation training is reviewed as a nursing intervention for substance abusers, using current research findings for rationale. A case study of a polysubstance abuser is used to demonstrate the clinical status of drug dependence, and how relaxation techniques can be used in treatment. Psychological and pathophysiological theories of addiction are reviewed briefly and linked to relaxation therapies through recently discovered psychophysiological mechanisms, with implications for substance abuse treatment. The history and modern variations of relaxation techniques are discussed, focusing on the literature of applications in substance abuse treatment. Final recommendation are drawn from the literature and case study, with implications for clinical nurse specialists.