Addiction is isolating and using drugs or alcohol can heighten symptoms of an underlying mental health condition. Art and music therapies work well for patients who have difficulty talking about emotions, thoughts, and experiences. These integrative therapies help a person express his or herself without the anxiety of socializing.
Art and music therapies can motivate a person to get involved with group meetings and activities, and participate in community work outside of treatment. An individual who goes through traumatic events or suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and addiction can struggle to talk about their experiences. Art and music therapies allow patients to easily express feelings and experiences with their hands.
The U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health (2014), describes how art therapy breaks down barriers to communication. Art therapy includes, “Incident drawings (i.e., a drawing of an incident that occurred while using substances), drawing/painting emotions, stress painting (i.e., painting during times of anxiety and/or stress in order to relieve feelings of stress), creating an art journal, and creating sculptures.”
Music is therapeutic to the mind, body, and spirit. People connect to music because of its psychological, emotional, spiritual, and mental stimulation. Writing music promotes critical thinking in a healthy, clear mind. It infuses creativity and psychological healing. An individual can express his or her experiences and feelings through writing music.
Playing an instrument is also therapeutic. For a person who is musically talented, playing music can relieve symptoms of anxiety or depression. Playing music is a healthy way to stay connected to you and expresses feelings while adjusting to a sober lifestyle.
Creating lyrics for music lets a person write out his or her feelings and incorporate them into the form of a song. This is a great tool for a person who has difficulty talking about his or her trauma. An individual’s lyrics speak for him or her and act as a voice to share traumatic experiences.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, you are not alone. Do not be afraid to ask for help. Get help today.
Cypress Lakes Lodge specializes in addiction treatment and is located in a serene, remote, lush-green, oxygen enriched environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy and offers yoga and meditation for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy, sober, sustainable relationships. Call us to get started: 409-331-2204