Holistic treatments for addiction can provide additional assistance during the recovery process. While holistic approaches are not enough on their own, under normal circumstances, they are great additions to a program.

What Are Common Holistic Treatments?

Holistic treatments for addiction include animal therapy, as well as acupuncture, aromatherapy, biofeedback, creative arts and coloring therapy, herbal therapy, homeopathy, imagery, journaling, massage and other types of bodywork, meditation, music, nutrition, and yoga. Some people also believe in floral therapy and light therapy.

What is Animal Therapy?

Also referred to as “Pet Therapy,” animal therapy is often used to help people who are dealing with chronic illnesses; it’s considered to be both healing and educational. There are several psychological and physical benefits in patients as they engage with animals, including reduced blood pressure, lowered heart rate, improved beta-endorphin levels, lowered stress levels, fewer feelings of anger and anxiety, better social engagement, and higher feelings of patience and self-esteem. Some patients are encouraged to get a therapy pet, which is an animal (that’s been trained to provide animal therapy.

Equine Therapy

Equine therapy has been used for several years, at first as therapy for people suffering from developmental problems and physical disabilities. Today, it’s still used for those reasons, as well as treating people with anxiety, eating disorders, and depression. People who are recovering addicts are known to benefit from equine therapy. This outdoor therapy uses nature to help form a relationship between the patient and the horse, which helps the patient to become more confident, trusting, and patient.

Where To Get Help

Pet Partners is an international resource for patients who are interested in animal therapy. PetPartners.org has articles that talk about animal therapy as well we how it can benefit individuals and varying groups of people. There’s also volunteer and training information on their website. If you’re thinking of checking into an addiction recover center, consider the Morningside Recovery Center. Therapet.com, an animal-assisted therapy foundation, is a non-profit that believes in using animals to help heal and rehabilitate ill patients. Their website has videos and books related to animal therapy, and they also have seminars and training programs.