Chronic Societal Problem

• Drug and alcohol abuse, along with a myriad of other chemical addictions, has become an epidemic in our modern world. As the stress of modern life and the pace at which we live increases, so do the global impacts of drug distribution, importation and awareness of the types of drugs available. The natural tendency of young adults to experiment with drugs and alcohol is impacted by the availability and information about drugs from all over the world. Many young adults know about the wide variety of drugs out there and how to get them.
  
  

Traditional Treatment

• A traditional drug and alcohol treatment plan most commonly involves a 12-step process or support group in conjunction with inpatient treatment. The patients rely on peers and being in a location where the substances are not available to help them to stop abusing. The difficulty with these types of treatment programs is the high level of repeat problems that these patients may have when they leave the treatment centers or support-group environments.
  
  

Holistic Approach

• A holistic approach to drug- and alcohol-abuse treatment programs includes many different natural health treatments and activities that patients take with them into their lives outside. Massage and meditation are often used to reconnect patients to their bodies and help them become more comfortable with how they are feeling. It retrains them to know what feeling good really is within their bodies, instead of simulating themselves with drugs that affect their brains. Additional herbal, acupuncture and biofeedback therapy may be used as well to enhance this healing process.
  
  

Benefits

• The most beneficial side effect of using a holistic approach to drug and alcohol treatment is that it can teach patients a new way to live that is healthy and balanced. Living this holistic lifestyle can help them resist the pull of drugs and alcohol, and feel good within themselves all on their own. This type of treatment is a life change, one that can improve the quality of life and make patients happier, rather than focusing on the singular outcome of stopping the chemical abuse.
  
  

Finding Holistic Treatment

• Holistic treatment for drug and alcohol addiction is becoming more available and popular. The technique can be seen on the A&E television show "Intervention" and has been featured on evening news programs. Holistic rehabilitation services are also listed under members of the Association for Addiction Professionals.