Importance of Holistic Approach in Cocaine Addiction Recovery

 Holistic approaches are now gaining popularity in the rehab clinics as part of the recovery programs. Its application extends to cocaine addiction recovery, helping previous users gain balance in their life; improve their physical and mental well being; and reduce their stress level.

Scientific researches found that illegal drug abuse recovery has higher success rates when the treatment includes holistic approach. This method is also an important tool that helps a recovering addict gain control over their behavior.

What Does Holistic Mean?

Holistic pertains to the treatment that involves the whole person- mind, body and spirit, and not just solely focused on addiction treatment. The therapy is based particularly on natural treatments and remedies rather than medications. As part of the recovery, holistic approaches are being conducted in environments that are close to nature.

Treating the Mind in Holistic Approach:

Cocaine addiction therapy calls for individual and group counselings that are used to serve various learning. Individual counseling aims to discover what led to the person’s addiction.

During the counseling, the therapist teaches new skills that can be applied in real life scenarios. In group counseling, recovering individuals apply their newly acquired skills, including problem-solving; positive communication; and active listening. Although it is somewhat challenging because of diversity in the group, the experience gained through sessions serve as a

valuable tool to make recovery last long.

Treating the Spirit in Holistic Approach:

Addiction therapies do not only focus on the mind, but the spirit as well. It is where acupuncture serves a significant tool in recovery by helping recovering users overcome anxiety, stress, or depression. Meditation and yoga help patients gain balance in their mind, body and spirit, as well as their surroundings.

Treating the Body in Holistic Approach:

 The body, which is abused during cocaine addiction needs to be treated with a holistic approach that can be done through nutritional education, healthy diet, massage and exercise. A healthy body is a prerequisite of a sound mind. Problems such as depression and anxiety that are symptoms of addiction can be kept at bay.

Experts believe that recovery can be easily achieved when holistic approaches are combined with a 12-step program, total abstinence and other addiction recovery tools.

Some of the holistic approaches that are incorporated in cocaine addiction recovery programs

are:

• Yoga
• Acupuncture
• Meditation
• Aromatherapy
• Nutrition
• Neurofeedback
• Exercise
• Animal therapy

Is Holistic Approach Applicable For Me?

Many people disagree on the benefits that can be reaped with the use of holistic methods in drug addiction recovery. Some people think that holistic methods are based on religions or beliefs. In a more general point of view, it should be taken as an effective way in treating patients struggling with drug addiction as it targets the healing of the mind, body and spirit.