Attending a rehabilitation program is essential for those struggling with addiction. It is the best way to limit substance abuse while teaching the brain to rely on other healthy alternatives rather than drugs or alcohol. Rehabilitation is important, but there are some therapeutic approaches that can be helpful in aiding addiction recovery. Not all rehab programs are the same, so some may include other types of experiential therapies or outside homework for patients.
We want to emphasize that attending rehab is critical in providing care for those with severe addiction, but there are other additions and resources that when combined with proper rehab, can help you stay sober after a program has ended. Rehab alone will not be enough for patients to feel in control of their addiction. This blog will discuss therapeutic approaches that can be utilized after rehab and how they help you regulate substance abuse.
1- Recovery Coaching
Chances you are not the first person to experience addiction of any kind. Many people have struggled with addiction of many kinds and are willing to help others through the depths of addiction. Studies have shown that recovery coaching is a beneficial option for those who need support during their recovery process.
Peer coaching can help you improve your interpersonal relationships, and avoid emergencies and hospitalization. Search for a recovery coaching program in your area or find someone who can be your sponsor and accountability partner.
2- Supplement And Nutrient Therapies
Nutrition and diet are important for all people, but when you are dealing with an addiction, taking a more natural approach to food can help you heal and focus on the signals of your body. Nutritional supplements and natural foods are common therapeutic approaches that can be used after rehab or during a rehabilitation program.
Food and supplements can help your body rely on more healthy options rather than drugs or alcohol. Just remember that many things can be addictive and you should use all supplements with caution.
3- Mindfulness And Meditation Techniques
Utilizing mindfulness and meditation can help addicts feel better about their situation while giving them a clearer picture of how their addiction is affecting their lives. There are many meditation techniques that can be used after your rehab program has ended. Here are a few that have shown promising results with addicts.
Sound Baths
Also known as sound therapy or sound healing, sound baths are an immersive experience that helps to soothe a person with sounds and vibrations. Sound baths can help reduce stress in addicts by helping move them into a deep relaxation.
Vibrations and certain frequencies can help limit physical pain and discomfort. Some patients use substances to help numb physical pain, so sound baths will help reduce the pain, limit stress response, and improve your sleep. Regulating your brain to a more calm state will help aid in your receptiveness to rehab.
Forest Bathing
This therapeutic approach is a Japanese practice that helps people reconnect with nature. The practice has been created to help lower the risk of tech burnout and access the benefits of nature for human health. There are many therapeutic benefits of connecting with nature, including boosting mood and the immune system.
Spending time in the quiet, near animals, or outdoors can limit symptoms of depression. Walking through a forest, or even your community can help your brain slow down. Being in the present moment is important to de-stressing. Having a conversation about complex emotions or trauma while out in the natural world will help patients open up. Forest Bathing is beneficial because it can be used on the patient’s own time, or during a meeting with a therapist. Leaving all distractions behind will give your mind space to wander and learn.
4- Volunteering
Taking the focus off of yourself can be helpful when recovering from addiction. Serving others or volunteering will help you foster gratitude and help you build better social connections. Addiction can be an isolating experience, especially during rehab when your emotional crutch is taken away. Serving will give you a bigger sense of purpose while also giving you opportunities to build relationships with others who can help aid in recovery.
Volunteering can also help teach addicts a new skill. After rehab programs end, it may be hard for addicts to stay sober. Having a skill to hone in on and put your energy into will keep you from falling back into using substances. Finding a service or group that meets at a scheduled time can also be helpful in keeping your sobriety.
5- Experiential Therapies
Experiential therapies combine mindfulness techniques and creative outlets that can help patients address issues in a non-jarring way. Some of these therapies include art therapy, movement therapy, music therapy, and sandbox therapy. It is recommended by licensed mental health professionals that these experiential therapies be included alongside talk therapy.
Art Therapy
The process of creating art of any kind can be very therapeutic and relaxing. For those who are feeling overwhelmed by their addiction or experiencing withdrawal, art can be a perfect distraction. Patients can express deep emotions on the canvas, which a therapist can then analyze with a patient to uncover trauma, emotional wounds, and reasons for addiction.
Movement Therapy
Movement therapy can be another outlet for working through emotions. Moving your body through dance, yoga, or other exercise can release endorphins and remove toxins from the body. Dance or other movement is a great way to express yourself and feel in control of the body.
Recovery Options From Red Willow
Our therapists and counselors know that not all addicts are the same. Each addictive substance is unique, thus so are the people who use them. Because of this, Red Willow offers multiple options for recovery and mental help that fit patients of all ages and backgrounds.
Red Willow offers Addiction Intervention, Prime For Life, and Substance Abuse IOP. All of these programs work to help people limit risky behaviors and help them have more control over their behavior. No matter where you are on the spectrum of addiction or how far gone you believe you are, recovery is possible with the right techniques.
