Alternative Addiction Treatments You May Not Know About

Conventional drug treatment approaches work well for many people. The 12-Step model, drug rehab programs, medication and talk therapy have helped millions to overcome their addictions to drugs or alcohol.

But different people have different needs, and alternative approaches are sometimes needed to get people invested in their recovery. Here are just a few of the newer approaches to addiction treatment.

Therapeutic Drumming

Drumming has been used by many cultures throughout history to improve health and well-being. Studies show that drumming can boost the immune system, improve focus and concentration, and produce feelings of calmness and well-being.

The following are some of the benefits of therapeutic drumming:

• Triggers an emotional release that reduces tension and stress and promotes relaxation
• Fosters a sense of purpose and belonging when performed in a group setting, increasing personal accountability and minimizing the tendency of addicts to isolate
• Promotes self-awareness and a mind-body connection that helps addicts focus on the present moment and feel more connected to themselves and others
• Opens the lines of communication by encouraging self-expression in nonverbal ways

Because of its therapeutic benefits, drumming has been used to treat autistic children, teens with emotional and behavioral issues, recovering addicts, and trauma patients. Some wilderness therapy programs also utilize drumming as part of their therapeutic curriculum.

Yoga

Yoga is one way addicts can return to a healthier lifestyle and improve their self-image. Long-term benefits of yoga include increased strength, flexibility and stamina, improved circulation, and better coordination. Yoga also does the following:

• Teaches respect and appreciation for the human body instead of abusing it with chemicals
• Rebuilds the connection between mind and body
• Fosters a sense of calm and focus, keeping people in tune with the present moment rather than the past or future

Adventure Activities

Adventure activities like rock climbing, white water rafting and canoeing can be supportive of sobriety. In addition to offering a “natural high,” these exciting pastimes remind people that being clean and sober can be fun and provide opportunities to challenge themselves and achieve their goals. Scaling a mountain or conquering a fear can be a skill- and confidence-building experience. Some wilderness rehab programs incorporate adventure programming into their therapeutic curriculum.

When combined with traditional substance abuse treatments, these alternative approaches can enhance the process of addiction recovery. These activities can also be healthy distractions and sober pastimes when recovering individuals face drug cravings or triggers to use.