If you’ve ever experienced addiction, you almost certainly have experienced times of high stress. Stress is nearly always a contributing factor in substance abuse, whether it be a result of managing life with addiction, or the reason you developed an addiction in the first place. Deciding to seek help for your addiction can come with its own stressors as well. You may fear the unknown in a life of sobriety, worry about your ability to quit, and even experience anxiety due to withdrawal. The good news is that once you have decided to accept treatment for your addiction, you will be taught relaxation techniques and coping skills that will become crucial tools for your recovery. A holistic approach to addiction recovery includes a variety of methods that not only help you to relax, but also give you the lasting ability to deal with your stress so that you can stay focused and avoid relapse going forward. These methods may include physical exercises such as yoga. Keeping your body active produces the endorphins your brain craves when recovering from addiction and helps to relieve tension. Another great tool is mindfulness through meditation. While meditation can seem intimidating if you’ve never tried it, it is actually quite easy to learn and can teach you how to stay in the present moment rather than obsess over the future or feel regret over the past. Art therapy is often used in recovery for its many stress-reducing benefits. Various forms of art allow you to explore your creative side while also exploring your emotions. Getting in touch with the feelings brought on by creating your own artwork can be incredibly therapeutic and also be an exercise in mindfulness. Another skill to cultivate when learning to deal with stress is your ability to connect with nature. The natural world can be a very calming and forgiving presence when you are healing from addiction.
At Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that understand addiction in all its forms. The Arbor uses an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, and at The Arbor you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan. We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit, so that you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call us at 844-413-2690.