Addiction treatment centers are increasingly adopting holistic treatment for addiction recovery that addresses the whole person—body, mind and spirit. This integrated approach combines evidence-based therapeutic techniques, such as counseling and behavioral therapy, with alternative therapies to create a comprehensive program that addresses every aspect of addiction. Holistic treatment is a popular approach to many medical conditions, and addiction treatment is no exception.
Healing the Body
Drug or alcohol abuse can wreak havoc on the body, causing nutritional deficiencies and contributing to many chronic medical conditions.1Holistic treatment for addiction recovery programs incorporate a variety of therapies that allow the body to repair and restore itself. Healthy meals at the treatment center help clients keep their strength and energy levels high; nutritional education allows them to maintain a balanced diet after they complete treatment.
Other components of holistic treatment that heal the body include massage and exercise—these therapeutic activities leave clients feeling rejuvenated and balanced, and they help ward off feelings of depression and anxiety that can lead to a relapse.
Healing the Mind
During treatment, it’s important to explore the underlying issues that may have contributed to substance abuse and develop new ways to cope with difficult experiences or unpleasant feelings. A treatment program that includes both individual counseling and group therapy can help clients achieve these goals. One-on-one time with a counselor helps clients learn new techniques to deal with their unique life situations and challenges, while group therapy sessions allow clients to share their experiences with like-minded members.
In addition to these therapeutic techniques, holistic treatment programs usually offer meditation and other mindfulness exercises that benefit clients, providing them with powerful stress-reducing tools that they can depend on throughout their recovery. Research suggests that just eight weeks of regular mindfulness meditation can impact the brain’s neural pathways and lead to feelings of well-being.2
Healing the Spirit
Holistic addiction treatment programs often include a valuable spiritual element. Many people who struggle with addiction describe feeling an inner void and attempting to fill that void through substance abuse. A holistic treatment program works to remedy those feelings of emptiness and enable spiritual healing.
People have different views on spirituality, and holistic programs cater to these differences, providing a number of therapeutic options that align with various spiritual worldviews. Holistic treatment programs also allow clients to heal and renew their spirit through expressive therapies such as art and music therapy. Through these activities, clients can often release feelings that are too difficult or painful to put into words.
Holistic Treatment for Addiction Recovery
Addiction is a complex disease that impacts every aspect of a person. If you’ve been struggling to break free of substance abuse, a holistic treatment program may be a good fit for you. Choosing a high-quality program that addresses your physical, emotional and spiritual needs can make the treatment experience go more smoothly and provide you with the best possible chances of long-term recovery.