Millions of people in the United States and around the world struggle with substance use disorder (SUD). The effects of substance abuse and addiction can be severe. People may face serious mental health and medical complications, as well as other challenges.
Addiction recovery requires a holistic approach to treatment. Holistic treatment programs provide tailored, comprehensive support for a person’s mind, body, spirit, relationships, and other aspects of who they are. These programs use therapies that treat the whole person, not just the physical aspects of addiction.
This article will explore the role of holistic therapies in addiction treatment. You will learn:
- What holistic therapy is
- Common holistic therapies used to support people struggling with addiction
- The benefits of a holistic approach to addiction recovery
- Where to find comprehensive treatment and recovery support
If you or someone you love lives with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find holistic addiction treatment programs and recovery support at Archstone Behavioral Health. Contact our treatment specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Holistic Therapy?
Holistic therapy refers to comprehensive care for a person’s mind, body, and spirit. Holistic therapies offer support for the whole person as they navigate addiction recovery.
Comprehensive addiction treatment plans typically offer a combination of evidence-based therapies, including:
- Behavioral therapies
- Medications
- Medical detox programs
- Individual counseling
- Family therapy
- Support groups
- Relapse prevention education
- Healthy coping skills
These programs may also include holistic therapies to reduce stress, improve health, and provide new ways to express and process emotions.
Common Holistic Therapies in Addiction Treatment
Many treatment centers offer holistic therapies as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Here are some common holistic therapies used during addiction treatment.
Nutritional therapy
Addiction can be hard on your body and mind. Changes in appetite, quickly gaining or losing weight, and an unhealthy diet can lead to vitamin deficiencies and other nutritional issues.
During recovery, it is essential to replenish lost nutrients and restore the body’s health. Nutritional therapy can help people learn to eat in a way that fuels their bodies and brains. This can lead to more energy, better sleep, and more balanced moods.
Yoga
Yoga pairs movements with the breath. This ancient form of exercise can help people stretch and build strength while connecting with their minds in new ways.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the art of staying grounded in the present moment. People may practice mindfulness through guided imagery exercises, meditation, movement activities, and more. Practicing mindfulness can reduce anxiety about the future or guilt about the past.
Creative expression
Journaling, dancing, painting, and other forms of creative expression can support a person’s recovery journey. Creative activities can help people explore feelings and experiences in new ways. It can be especially helpful for individuals who struggle to express themselves in words.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Eastern medicine practice that may help redirect the body’s energy. Some believe that acupuncture can relieve pain, tension, emotional blockages, and other symptoms.
Nature therapy
Research shows that spending time in nature can have a positive effect on a person’s mood and emotional well-being. Walking, eating, or simply spending time in nature each day may reduce stress and improve emotional resilience.
Animal therapy
Animal therapy typically involves spending time with horses, dogs, or other animals in a therapeutic setting. People may groom or feed the animals, or simply have them nearby. Research suggests that spending time with animals may reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and promote optimism in individuals recovering from addiction.
Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our holistic treatment programs.
The Benefits of Holistic Therapy in Addiction Treatment and Recovery
Research shows that holistic methods can support the long-term recovery process better than medical treatment alone. Here are some of the most significant benefits of holistic therapy in addiction treatment.
Better overall health
Nutritional support, exercise, and stress-reducing practices can have a positive impact on a person’s mental and physical health. Holistic practices can improve a person’s general health and well-being as they work to overcome substance use disorder.
Community
Holistic therapies provide people with an opportunity to connect and engage with others in new and meaningful ways. These therapies may boost self-esteem, improve social skills, and help people find community as they navigate addiction recovery.
Relapse prevention skills
Mindfulness, yoga, breathwork, and other holistic practices are effective tools to manage stress. Research shows that stress is one of the biggest relapse triggers. Learning effective, practical ways to reduce stress and manage challenges can significantly reduce the risk of relapse.
Learn more about the benefits of holistic therapies in addiction recovery by contacting the specialists at Archstone Behavioral Health.
Find Holistic Addiction Treatment
If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Archstone Behavioral Health Center offers holistic, empowering addiction treatment and recovery support programs. Contact our intake team to explore your treatment options or to make your first appointment.
References:
- Sage Journals: Holistic Rehabilitation in Action: A Data-Driven Analysis of the Impact on Quality of Life among Individuals with Psychoactive Substance Abuse
- Frontiers in Psychiatry: Neurobiological basis for the application of yoga in drug addiction
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Mindfulness meditation in the treatment of substance use disorders and preventing future relapse: neurocognitive mechanisms and clinical implications
