New and Innovative Treatment Options at Addiction Centers
Many addiction treatment centers are trying new and innovative treatment approaches to help patients who are suffering from substance abuse disorder. Such strategies are often referred to as alternative treatments considering that they are completely different from traditional drug treatment methods that have been in existence and utilized for years.
A steadily growing number of drug and alcohol treatment facilities are including alternative treatments in their rehab program not as a stand-alone method but to complement existing rehab approaches. There are several studies that support the effectiveness of adopting innovative approaches in the treatment program in helping recovering addicts achieve sobriety.
Here are some of the most popular innovative and alternative treatment modes being utilized by several addiction treatment centers in the country:
Biochemical Restoration and Nutrition (Nutrition Therapy)
This treatment approach aims to restore and repair the biochemical imbalances that make the person more prone to addiction. These chemical imbalances include nutrient deficiencies, amino acid imbalances, adrenal fatigue, imbalances of neurotransmitters in the brain, and oxidative stress, among others.
This kind of therapy is carried out by first assessing and determining the biochemical imbalances in an individual and thereafter creating a nutrition plan that specifically targets the identified imbalances. Many registered nutritionists are stressing the importance of addressing the nutritional deficiencies of recovering addicts to help restore their physical health, stabilize their mood, and significantly reduce substance or alcohol cravings.
Yoga
Yoga is based on the principle that the mind, body, and spirit should be in harmony for the person to be at peace. Many types of research reveal that recovering addicts who regularly practiced yoga have been found to be less prone to relapse and feelings of depression, stress, and anxiety.
Yoga teaches meditative techniques, breathing work, and physical postures to attain mind, body, and spirit balance. Among the three key aspects of yoga, meditation helps the recovering addict to have a deeper self-awareness and self-knowledge. This knowledge can help them to develop inner strength and motivation to overcome cravings and dependence on substances to feel better.
Acupuncture
There are existing records that show the effectiveness of acupuncture in significantly reducing the painful symptoms of withdrawal syndrome. Apart from helping the recovering addict to go through detoxification process more comfortably, many patients attest the usefulness of acupuncture in controlling drug and alcohol cravings and anxiety.
Acupuncture techniques vary, from the most common penetration of thin needles to certain body points to the use of heat, pressure, and even laser light to deliver the same benefits. It is believed that acupuncture helps regulate neurotransmitters, stimulate the endocrine system, and promotes better blood circulation thereby helping the person to be in a calmer and more relaxed state.
Animal or Pet Therapy
Being around and caring for dependent animals help the recovering addict to be more aware of his surroundings and other beings apart from himself. Drug dependents who take care of pets discover their nurturing side and realize the value of the positive impact of being nurtured.
Numerous pieces of evidence also suggest that recovering addicts who spend time caring or being around pets are less stressed, less depressed, more confident, and experience fewer painful physical symptoms.
Horticulture or Gardening Therapy
People who love tending gardens and taking care of plants know that gardening promotes a sense of wellbeing. Recovering addicts who were encouraged to care for plants have been found to be calmer and more serene than those who have no outlet apart from regular therapies. Moreover, gardening therapy significantly reduces the seriousness of depression, improves concentration, and increases self-worth.
It is a given that further studies should be conducted in order to fully conclude the positive effects of using new and innovative modes of treating substance abuse disorder. Nevertheless, it should be stressed that nobody should also discount the value and positive contributions of alternative treatment in helping addicted individuals achieve holistic growth and improvement.
His House Rehab offers industry-leading Mental Health Treatment Programs. Founded in 1994, we base our Drug and Alcohol Treatment programs on five key principles: commitment, honesty, integrity, respect, and service. These five principles guide us in all that we do and all the care we provide. Contact us today to see how we can help you or your loved one.
Whether you’re dealing with the dangers of non-alcoholic beer or the challenges of male psychology in addiction, our team is here to support you. Our facilities offer a refuge and community for those needing continuing care and help with emotional recovery. We focus on sober living homes and rehab support to ensure a comprehensive approach to mental wellness.
