Why Holistic Therapy Works For Addicts
Holistic therapy comes in many forms and is used by millions around the world. Recently, it has been shown that people suffering from addiction can also benefit from this therapy. Addiction is a common problem in our modern world. People who suffer from an addiction involve themselves in uncontrollable and often unhealthy practices that eventually turn into habits to face anxiety, depression and other negative mental states. Unfortunately, they do not find a solution in addiction, only further problems.
Modern day treatments include one to one, group, animal and various alternative and holistic therapy for clients. Normally, this also includes sharing their feelings and thoughts in a way of airing it all out. While this is essential for the client because it takes away the burden of guilt which can lead to further problems, this may not necessarily resolve the main issue. Simply talking about the problem does not necessarily solve it although it does provide a good outlet for many people who otherwise do not have such an option.
Instead, the client should be given enough opportunities for him to safely and directly experience what they feel and also have the chance to deal with it effectively and creatively.
Holistic Therapy – East Meets West
A holistic therapy approach is required to get the best results. This is achieved through combining western and eastern ideas of health and healing. This process normally includes learning about the seven senses of the body. The seven senses are how we get information from our environment, as well as information within our own body. These include sight, smell, taste, hearing, feeling, internal sensation and our sense of balance.
The client who is able to learn about this holistic approach is usually surprised to find that many things and problems in our life are simply physical sensations that arise from external events as well as his own internal thoughts. For example, depression and anxiety are considered threats, and as such, our brain produces physical sensations of fight or flight. Since there is no actual physical danger that can be seen or run away from, this causes much distress.
Unfortunately, not many people know this and this is why it is important to apply this important approach for many addicts. The client is not feeling the thought in his mind, but rather he is feeling the body’s physical reaction to such a thought, now considered as a threat. By understanding this, the client will be better able to handle their thoughts and bodily reactions.
Types of Holistic Therapy
Holistic therapy is not one specific approach. There are many types of holistic therapy such as rieki, acupuncture, acupressure, reflexology, massage…Make sure you do your research into the type of therapy offered and the person providing the service.
It is not uncommon for drug addiction and depression to be co-occurring. A good holistic addiction treatment center has to be able to deal with that too. Holistic therapy for depression goes beyond medications for depression. Traditional therapy is required as well. These type of addiction treatment centers are called, “Dual Diagnosis Treatment Facilities”.
Holistic therapy for addiction and psychological disorders treat the mind, body and spirit in order to make you feel better, according to WebMD. It goes beyond medication and the approach hastens your recovery by ensuring a healthy diet, motivating you to exercise, and encouraging you to talk about your feelings. The types of therapies that have been found effective in helping clients to express themselves are the interpersonal therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
All of the techniques in the world are worthless, or at least ineffective, if the client does not want or does not continue with therapy after they are discharged. It is important that a personal recovery plan is made and followed after leaving the facility.
If you would like to know more about holistic therapy please contact Hawaii Island Recovery at 866-515-5032.
