Holistic Approach to Addiction

What is a holistic approach? Instead of treating specific symptoms or “parts of the whole,” taking a holistic approach involves targeting the entirety of a person. A person’s character, personality, and perspective are regarded during recovery. Addiction causes emotional and psychological instability; therefore, finding positive opportunities to distract the mind and work through intrusive thoughts is essential. The approach goes above physical matters and works from the inside out. 

Helpful Holistic Approaches 

Research, trials, and time have proven the effectiveness of holistic treatment. Individuals who have formed a tolerance to alcohol or specific drugs are at risk of long-term health complications or overdose due to addiction. People with addictions who desire recovery but are seeking treatment that not only helps through the withdrawal phase but also encourages strength through body, mind, and soul should consider holistic drug rehab. 

There are quite a few practical and comprehensive ways to holistically recover from addiction or sustain sobriety. Massage and acupressure are popular methods of recovery that individuals will use to manage stress and increase dopamine. Another well-known holistic approach is mediation. The therapeutic technique triggers the emotional aspect of a person’s psyche. Mediation helps a person to unwind, think and feel certain thoughts and emotions, and practice letting them go with every breath. 

Other natural approaches include: 

  • Yoga 
  • Reiki 
  • Prayer 
  • Tai Chi
  • Journaling 
  • Biofeedback 
  • Sound therapy 
  • Aromatherapy
  • Nature therapy 
  • Guided imagery 
  • Sand tray therapy 
  • Music or art therapy 
  • Solution-focused therapy  

Finding the right holistic approach to addiction can be different for everyone, but often support systems are established during these groups or treatments. Another vital aspect of recovery and maintaining a healthy body and mindset is through organic eating. Natural ways to increase the happiness chemical in the brain is by eating healthy foods. For instance, there are vitamins for recovery from alcohol, and most of these vitamins are found in food.  

Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention 

After treatment, creating a relapse prevention plan is crucial for long-term recovery. Mainly, mindful meditation, which is tied to Eastern contemplative practice, is used both formally and informally today. For example, do you ever take a breath before facing a difficult situation like speaking to your boss or lifting heavy weights? Then you are practicing mindfulness and breathing techniques that reduce stress. 

In the case of addiction, if an addict leaves treatment and is faced with temptation or is in triggering situations, then mindfulness meditation is a wonderful practice to employ to avoid relapse. Start by choosing a time in the day, like early in the morning or in the moment, and be present. 

There are different forms of mediation, including guided, walking, mindful eating, mindful movement, and of course, breathing. If you are someone who would prefer to avoid medications to recover from substance abuse, then a holistic approach may suit you best. 

Holistic Addiction Treatment at Better Addiction Care 

At Better Addiction Care, our trained medical staff is prepared to offer you a treatment facility that is safe, secure, and focuses not only on your symptoms from addiction but appreciates you as a person. From cognitive behavioral therapy techniques to Christian-centered methods, we can design a treatment plan that fits your recovery goals. 

Don’t hesitate to speak to a specialist at Better Addiction Care by calling 800-429-7690 today! Also, learn how to handle a relapse and other beneficial information here! 

Related Readings: 

Self-Care Tips for Mental Health

10 Ways Exercise Helps Addiction Recovery

Sources

  1. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2021). Complementary, Alternative, or Integrative Health: What’s In a Name? Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/complementary-alternative-or-integrative-health-whats-in-a-name
  2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2014). SAMHSA’s Working Definition of Recovery: 10 Guiding Principles of Recovery. Retrieved from https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/sma14-4129.pdf
  3. Miller, W. R., & Rollnick, S. (2013). Motivational Interviewing: Helping People Change. Guilford Press.
  4. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide (Third Edition). Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition
  5. American Holistic Health Association. (n.d.). What is Holistic Medicine? Retrieved from https://ahha.org/what-is-holistic-medicine/
  6. Addiction Center. (2021). Holistic Treatment for Addiction. Retrieved from https://www.addictioncenter.com/treatment/holistic-treatment/
  7. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). Mind-Body Therapies. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment/evidence-based-approaches-to-drug-addiction-treatment/behavioral-therapies/mind-body-therapies
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