Eastern philosophy is a large part of our culture and Oprah often invites guests to the show that approach mental and physical health using alternative forms of healing. Holistic drug rehab includes utilizing a treatment plan which will help to heal the body, mind and spirit of the addict. This doesn’t exclude medications for detoxing if that is what is needed by the drug or alcohol abuser. But, the program itself will have elements often that bring together vitamin supplements, yoga sessions, acupuncture, meditation, herbs and psychotherapy.
If someone has a dual diagnosis and has been diagnosed with bipolar, major depression or another psychiatric classification from the dsm IV-R then a holistic drug rehab program will be addressing these issues as well. The meals will often be prepared with natural ingredients, there will be gentle exercise classes and the whole person will be treated. This doesn’t mean there won’t be rules or some tough love too, but nutritional and therapies from the east will be incorporated.
Holistic programs are not identical. Some drug rehab recovery programs with a holistic orientation may include breathwork, guided imagery and group walks. Is this approach for you or a loved one? If someone already has had an interest in vitamins, health foods, meditation and spirituality this can be a nice fit. Those that advocate the holistic recovery approach say that traditional approaches only address the physical part of the person. They argue that there won’t be success unless the spiritual and mental aspects are addressed plus a new routine of nutrition. To be fair, all traditional programs have a psychotherapy component and do assist people in delving into their family background and ghosts from the past that create self-destructive patterns. However, the holistic programs emphasis a natural approach and to treat the person as a whole.
