In group therapy for substance abuse, people struggling with addiction can learn how they can get support and encouragement to live a full and victorious life. These sessions allow people in recovery to talk about their experiences and problems in a safe and private setting. They can also learn coping skills and strategies to manage their recovery.
Discover five group therapy activities that can help with substance abuse recovery.
1. Emotional Sharing and Processing
Substance abuse group therapy aims to give people a supportive place to talk about their addiction and how it makes them feel. Essential topics include talking about their triggers and problems, patterns, and any feelings that might come up on their way to recovery.
When people talk about their feelings in a group, they can gain insight into their own lives and learn from the lives of others. Support groups can also help alleviate isolation and shame by letting people know they are not alone in their struggles.
2. Education and Skill Development
Group therapy can also teach people about the different things that can lead to addiction and help them develop plans and skills for getting better. Individuals might learn about the effects of drugs on the brain and body and how to deal with things like stress, communication, and solving problems.
Also, getting more education and learning new skills can help people understand the problems they may face on their way to recovery and give them the tools and strategies they need to avoid relapsing.
3. Setting and Planning Goals
People can also set and work toward specific recovery goals during group therapy. Setting short-term goals, like going to a certain number of group sessions or staying sober for a certain amount of time, and long-term goals, like finishing a treatment program or reaching a certain level of personal or professional growth, may be part of this process.
Individuals can feel a sense of accomplishment and progress in their recovery by setting and working toward specific goals. Clear goals may also help them stay motivated and concentrated on their road to recovery.
4. Creating a Helpful Network
Being part of a group working towards the same goal can create a sense of community and belonging. People who feel stigmatized can benefit significantly from the support of others because it helps them feel less alone and isolated, gives them a new perspective on their own experiences, and lets them learn from the experiences of others.
People in recovery can benefit from having a network of peers and professionals who are there for them and can give them advice, motivation, and encouragement.
5. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy tries to help people figure out and change negative patterns of thinking and acting. During CBT sessions, a mentor helps clients determine what thoughts and actions lead to their drug use. The mentor then assists the individual in developing new, more positive ways of thinking and acting.
Because it helps people understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, CBT can be an effective treatment for substance abuse. Individuals can learn to manage their emotions better, make healthier choices, and connect with others who are going through similar problems.
Adult & Teen Challenge Ohio can assist you or a loved one who is struggling with substance abuse. Clients in our comprehensive treatment programs get the help and direction they need to beat their addiction and stay clean for good.
Do not allow substance abuse to take over your life any longer. Contact us today to take the first step toward recovery. Our experienced team of professionals is here to help you on your path to a healthier, sober future. Do not put it off any longer — contact us immediately to begin your recovery.