Holistic Addiction Treatment Program in Indiana
Utilizing holistic forms of treatment in healthcare is part of a trend that has seen success across several types of disorders and illnesses. Therefore, as addiction is considered a chronic reoccurring illness, incorporating holistic treatment into forms of addiction should be no exception. Furthermore, holistic treatment should not be viewed as an alternative to traditional methods but rather as a compliment that when used together can create a more comprehensive and successful program.
The holistic approach to addiction treatment encompasses the whole person which includes not just the physical body but the mind and spirit as well. This means that in order for holistic treatment to be successful, it must address all aspects of the person struggling with addiction.
What is a Holistic Addiction Treatment Program?
The holistic approach is a comprehensive, integrated system of care that meets the physical, psychological, social, spiritual, and cultural needs of individuals with substance abuse disorders. It is important to understand that addiction is a chronic disease that affects not just the person struggling with substance abuse, but also their families and loved ones. A holistic approach can provide the structure, support, and guidance that people need to recover from addiction and live a sober, productive life.
Holistic refers to treatment and therapy types are that aimed at treating the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. The idea behind holistic forms of treatment is that improve individuals’ daily lives by providing them with other psychical and psychological needs. People feel more complete in their treatment and have more successful transitions back into society.
A holistic treatment plan can help provide focus on what matters most to an individual. They have the opportunity to better understand themselves and their needs. Holistic programs satisfy a deep need for purpose and structure. They help people to develop new skills and knowledge.
What are the Benefits of Holistic Addiction Treatment Programs?
When holistic forms of treatment are used in conjunction with evidence-based treatment models it addresses how addiction has affected the person as a whole. This is an integrated approach that treats the whole person. Holistic treatment aims to:
- Promote physical, psychological, and spiritual well-being
- Empower individuals to make positive choices
- Address underlying causes of addiction
- Encourage healthy lifestyle choices
- Find new ways to address triggers and stress
- Utilize healthy ways to socialize and build relationships
Holistic treatments can also help people to connect with others who are struggling with similar issues. These programs can provide support and encouragement during difficult times.
What are Holistic Treatment Techniques?
There are many different holistic activities that can be used in addiction treatment. Some of these include:
Art Therapy
This type of therapy uses creative expression to help people explore their emotions and thoughts. Art therapy can also include express art forms like dance and music. It can be a helpful way to cope with stress and trauma that could be caused by addiction or part of a dual diagnosis. Art therapy facilities a discussion by allowing individuals to tap into emotions they may not otherwise be able to access.
This can be especially helpful for individuals with long-standing drug abuse issues. People that have engaged in substance abuse for an extended period of time may have difficulty accessing and emotions as a result of their past behavior.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is another holistic activity that has been shown to be successful in treating addiction. Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions. It involves inserting thin needles into the skin at specific points on the body. Acupuncture is thought to help to ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It can also help to improve mental and physical health.
Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of conditions, including addiction. A study published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment found that acupuncture was able to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms in people with heroin addiction.
Meditation
Meditation sometimes referred to as “breathwork” or “mindfulness” can be another holistic activity that can be used in holistic addiction treatment programs. Meditation can help to ease anxiety and stress, which are often triggered by substance abuse. It can also help to improve focus and concentration.
Meditation teaches individuals how to stop and focus on the moment by observing thier thoughts, feelings, and surroundings without any action or judgment. By practicing meditation individuals start to learn better self-control and are better prepared to handle triggers and stress. Therefore, those who engage in meditation are less likely to relapse.
Yoga
One holistic activity that has been shown to be successful in treating addiction is yoga. Yoga can help to ease withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and stress. It does this by teaching the individual how to control their breath and focus their thoughts. Yoga can help to improve mental and physical health. It can also help to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that yoga was effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in people with substance abuse disorders. The study found that yoga helped to improve the quality of life for people with substance abuse disorders.
Equine Therapy
Equine or animal therapy is another holistic treatment that can be effective in addiction treatment. Equine therapy uses horses to help people recover from addiction. Horses are gentle and non-judgmental creatures that can help people to feel more comfortable and open up about their feelings. Horseback riding can also help to improve mental and physical health.
A study published in the Journal of Substance Abuse found that equine therapy was effective in reducing cravings and symptoms of anxiety and depression in people with substance abuse disorders. The study found that horseback riding helped to improve the quality of life for people in recovery.
Neurofeedback or Biofeedback
Neurofeedback or EEG biofeedback uses sensors to measure the electrical activity in the brain. The goal is to find abnormalities in brain wave patterns so that the practitioner will better understand how to work with individuals to restore balance. Ultimately. neurofeedback provides information to the person so that they can learn to control their thoughts and emotions.
Biofeedback has been found to be an effective treatment for anxiety, depression, and stress. These are all common symptoms of addiction. Neurofeedback can help people to learn how to control their thoughts and emotions, which can lead to fewer cravings and a lower risk of relapse.
Nutrition-Based Guidance
A holistic addiction treatment program will also focus on nutrition. Nutrition is an important part of recovery because it can help to reduce cravings and restore balance to the body. A holistic approach to nutrition will focus on whole, natural foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals. The goal is to help the person to feel their best so that they can stay on track with their recovery.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is another holistic approach that can be used in addiction treatment. Massage therapy can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can lead to fewer cravings and a lower risk of relapse. Massage therapy can also help to improve circulation and increase relaxation.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is a holistic approach that can be used to treat trauma as well as substance abuse disorders. This therapy is designed to provide relief for individuals suffering from traumatic experiences. EMDR works to help individuals process experiences faster by accessing the traumatic memory network and therefore enhancing adaptation. People are able to work through distress and emotions much more quickly
Through EDMR people are to find relief from anxiety, stress, and anger that could be related to mental health disorders and substance abuse.
Spiritual Counseling
The spiritual aspect of holistic treatment is also important. For many people, addiction is a way of numbing pain or running from problems. But spirituality can help to provide a sense of purpose and meaning. Spirituality can also help to connect people to something larger than themselves, which can be helpful in recovery.
How are Holistic Techniques Used to Treat Substance Abuse?
A Holistic approach provides people with a more complete, more comprehensive recovery. It also means looking at the person as a whole and making routine changes to support what’s been learned in addiction treatment. The holistic approach can and should be used in conjunction with traditional methods of treatment, such as medication and therapy.
Using both traditional methods and holistic methods helps people recover from addiction because it gives them a comprehensive approach to treatment. Traditional methods focus on treating the addiction itself, while holistic methods focus on treating the whole person.
Are Holistic Addiction Treatment Programs Effective?
Yes, holistic addiction treatment programs can be effective. They often have a higher success rate than traditional methods alone because they treat the whole person, not just the addiction. People have also shown to have higher levels of satisfaction from treatment plans that include holistic options, as well as reporting lower rates of relapse.
Contact First City Recovery to Learn More About Our Holistic Treatment Options!
Holistic activities work well in addiction treatment because they help to address the underlying causes of addiction. Holistic addiction treatment programs are extremely effective when combined with traditional therapy and program types. At First City Recovery Center we offer a variety of holistic treatment options for anyone looking for a more well-rounded program.
Reach out to our team today to discuss our addiction treatment programs and how holistic treatment can work for you or a loved one.
MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Vahid Osman, MD is a psychiatry specialist in Indianapolis, IN.
Dr. Osman completed a residency at Austin State Hospital. He has over 32 years of experience in Psychiatry & Behavioral Health. He is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
