Holistic drug rehab is a type of addiction treatment that works to heal the entire person – mind, body, and soul – in recovery. Unlike traditional treatment methods, holistic rehab does not just focus on treating the addictive disorder. Rather, it addresses the physical, emotional, psychological, environmental, spiritual, and social aspects of addiction in efforts to heal the “whole” person. That is where the term “holistic” originates.
Drug addiction affects all aspects of a person’s life. It disrupts their physical and mental health, as well as their social and spiritual life. It diminishes a person’s motivation, emotional stability, relationships, and general sense of self. For this reason, the National Institute on Drug Abuse suggests, “Effective treatment attends to multiple needs of the individual, not just his or her drug abuse.” And that is exactly what holistic modalities work to do.
A holistic drug rehab program will address an individual’s drug abuse problem, as well as other associated mental, social, and spiritual needs. However, it is important to note that some people battling addiction may be in need of medication-assisted or other evidence-based treatment methods. In these cases, holistic drug treatment should become one component – but not the only component – of their treatment plan.
Holistic drug rehab is also used to describe the non-medicinal therapies that help to treat addiction. For this reason, many people believe that this method goes against traditional medicine. While holistic drug rehab may lean towards natural and non-medicinal treatment methods, it is usually designed to support evidence-based treatment (not replace it). Holistic therapies typically complement, and are used in conjunction with, traditional treatment methods. Examples of holistic therapies include:
- Yoga Meditation
- Mindfulness practice
- Spiritual therapy
- Art and music therapy
- Routine exercise
- Nutritional therapy
- Counseling
- Nature or wilderness therapy
- Herbal medicines
- Massage and acupuncture
These activities and methodologies can be used to help clients overcome difficult cravings, uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, and emotional issues that have stemmed from drug abuse. Holistic drug therapies can also be used to help a person re-establish a spiritual footing and a healthy, balanced routine. Holistic drug rehab usually encourages healthy eating patterns, regular exercise, and a dose of the great outdoors as part of their treatment program. In combination with other standard counseling methods, holistic treatment can help an individual dive deep into their emotions and the root of their drug abuse. In turn, this can lead to a more successful recovery.
You see, drug addiction is often fueled by difficult histories – such as abuse and trauma – or difficult mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety. For individuals battling these issues alongside their addiction, holistic treatment methods can be an integral part of rehab. Holistic modalities can help individuals learn how to effectively manage stress, anxiety, and other overwhelming issues that may trigger drug cravings. For example, when facing a stressful situation, a person may turn to mindfulness and meditation to cope.
At Turnbridge, we integrate holistic activities with evidence-based treatment methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, dual diagnosis, and medication management. Throughout the recovery journey, our clients have access to yoga studios, art rooms, fitness centers, nature excursions, and other recreational activities that encourage a sound and balanced self. Residents are also met with nutritious meal plans and exercise regimes to kick off a healthier life in treatment. The main objectives of our holistic drug treatment methods are to help clients:
- Identify the root of their addiction
- Reestablish self-awareness, identity, and confidence
- Better resist drug cravings
- Manage stressful emotions and situations
- Promote a healthy self-image
- Reduce the appeal of drugs and alcohol
- Build healthy relationships with other peers (of the same age and gender) in recovery
- Find natural joy in a sober life
- Live free from their addiction and mental health disorder
If you would like to learn more about our holistic drug rehab methods, or about the young men’s and women’s treatment programs at Turnbridge, please do not hesitate to reach out. Call 877-581-1793 to learn more.