Holistic Alcohol Addiction Treatment
Alcohol addiction is a chronic disease that affects millions of people around the world – yet no two experiences are exactly the same. In fact, as reported by NIAAA, Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) can stem from a variety of reasons and be worsened by factors such as genetics, lifestyle, personal history, and environment.
And, since alcohol addiction is such a complex chronic illness and psychological disorder, it is impossible to find a “one-size-fits-all” formula for an effective treatment plan – especially when both mind and body are affected by addiction. A holistic approach, when balanced with conventional addiction treatment techniques, can help patients regain control over their emotional and physical health. Learn about how a holistic alcohol treatment can promote healing and recovery below.
What Does Holistic Mean?
Holism is a multi-dimensional approach to understanding human health. Holistic approaches look at things as a whole, focus on the power of mind-body connection for healing, and are based on the belief that all the parts of something are interconnected.
In medicine and psychology, the holistic approach is used to create treatment plans for the whole person, rather than for one aspect of the condition. In turn, holistic treatment plans take into consideration mental, social, and lifestyle factors as well as the symptoms of the disease.
Holistic healthcare interventions use a variety of techniques – conventional, traditional, and alternative – that aim to focus on the whole mind and body to promote complete healing.
What Is a Holistic Alcohol Addiction Treatment Program?
Alcohol addictions and use disorders are complex matters, stemming from a variety of causes and experiences. When it comes down to treating them and promoting healing, it is impossible to focus just on the physical symptoms or psychological effects.
In fact, for most people, alcohol treatment mostly involves medically assisted detox programs and rehabilitation. However, psychotherapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, when coupled with standard addiction treatments, can reduce stress and promote healing. During such programs, patients focus on aspects of their wellbeing, including physical, spiritual, emotional, and lifestyle aspects, rather than just on the symptoms of the illness.
Holistic Treatment Techniques for Alcohol Addiction
A holistic alcohol treatment plan can include a variety of activities and complementary or alternative therapies, including:
- Acupuncture and Acupressure
- Ayurveda
- Tai Chi and Yoga
- Massages
- Hypnosis
- Meditation and mindfulness
- Art, sound, and animal-assisted therapy
- Sports and physical exercise
- Nutritional education and therapy
- Herbal medicines
- Neurofeedback and biofeedback
Benefits and Effectiveness of Holistic Treatment
Holistic treatments are not designed to be used alone but in combination with conventional treatment options. When used in this way, holistic therapies can help:
- Reducing withdrawal symptoms
- Relieve stress and emotional issues
- Finding the necessary spiritual and emotional grounding
- Restore healthy eating patterns and lifestyle choices
Additionally, each kind of therapy has a specific goal. For example, activities such as meditation, mindfulness, and yoga encourage people to become more aware of their bodies, mind patterns, and surroundings. This heightened state of awareness can be used to prevent relapses and eliminate the challenges of transitioning into sober living.
Other techniques, such as massages and relaxation techniques are used to help patients deal with lingering pain and discomfort that might come from withdrawal.
While holistic therapies are not a replacement for conventional alcohol treatments, they are extremely useful throughout the stages of detoxification and rehabilitation, and they also give patients the necessary tools to make the most of their new life.
The Balance of Holistic and Conventional Approaches
When it comes down to creating a tailored and balanced alcohol treatment program for a person’s addiction, nothing can replace a conventional approach. Here at the Peaks Recovery Centers, you will always be able to find the support of physicians, psychiatrists, and healthcare professionals delivering 24/7 nursing services.
However, no addiction leaves the body or body untouched – that is why we implement Dual Diagnosis, which allows us to clearly see the connection existing between life experiences, emotional issues, and addiction symptoms.
When treating such complex conditions, Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAMs) can equip patients with the emotional and psychological tools needed to overcome common challenges, such as giving in to cravings, episodes of relapse, and unhealthy lifestyle choices.
When the necessary financial means are lacking, these CAMs can also provide ongoing support to people struggling to find a balance in their new life.
Ultimately, the two types of treatments should not be seen as two options to choose from, but rather as the perfect completion of one another to be implemented at the same time.
Discover Peaks Recovery Centers Holistic Addiction Treatments
At the Peaks Recovery Centers, we are committed to finding the alcohol treatment program that is best suited for each patient’s needs. Often, a combination of conventional and holistic techniques can yield the best results, helping each patient regain hold of their mental, emotional, and physical health. Connect with Peaks Recovery to discover the range of alcohol treatment options we offer.