Holistic treatments are non-medical recovery methods used to complement traditional treatment practices. Every person is different and comes to treatment with a unique worldview and distinct experiences. There is a wide array of therapeutic treatment methods that are utilized in treatment programs. Many substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment programs will incorporate multiple modalities into customized treatment plans for their participants. An individual’s struggles with substance abuse and/ or addiction do not occur in a vacuum, and will likely affect all areas of his or her life. In order to accommodate drug cravings, individuals often develop unhealthy habits and patterns that must be shifted during treatment. While traditional psychotherapeutic methods can be highly effective, supplementing one’s treatment with additional holistic treatment modalities can further its efficacy.
What Are Holistic Treatments?
Holistic treatment approaches are able to focus on every aspect of the recovering individual, and address his or her whole self. Many forms of holistic treatments compliment traditional treatment approaches in that they can help to shed light on one’s true emotional, spiritual, and physical state, which can open space to pinpoint and address how one’s addiction may have affected each of these areas. Depending on the substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment center, holistic treatments offered could include, but are not limited to the following:
- Massage therapy
- Reiki
- Tai Chi
- Nutritional therapy
- Yoga
- Guided meditation
- Acupuncture
- Biofeedback
- Creative arts therapy
- Spiritual therapy
The purpose of integrating holistic practices into one’s treatment plan is to layer one’s treatment by offering additional approaches to one’s recovery process.
Do They Work?
There is a reason why the most effective substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment programs offer customized treatment plans: it is because every person is different. There is no universal treatment method that proves successful for every person struggling with substance abuse and/ or addiction, as each individual has nuanced needs when it comes to the recovery process. The recovery process is entirely personal, and it will be directly informed by one’s personality, mental health and emotional needs. Not all individuals will find holistic treatment options helpful, and conversely some individuals may find that holistic treatment options resonate more than traditional treatment practices. It is also important to note that there are a variety of different holistic treatment options, and an individual should not feel dissuaded from trying multiple options, especially if one of them may have been ineffective. Much like the treatment plans for each individual in recovery are reflective of his or her distinct needs, many individuals do find that incorporating a combination of both traditional treatment methods and holistic treatment beneficial to their recovery process and continued success.
For Information and Support
Substance abuse and addiction can be incredibly dangerous, and can result in severe short and long-term consequences. If you or someone you know is suffering from substance abuse or addiction, please get help as soon as possible. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. There is no reason to go through this alone, and we are here to help. Please feel free to reach out to us for further information or with any questions regarding substance abuse or addiction. We are available anytime via telephone at: 213-389-9964, or you can always email us at: info@friendlyhousela.org.
