Group sessions provide them with a set time within their routine to focus on their recovery. Group sessions can allow members to work through challenging emotions such as shame and guilt. Listening to what other members share can provide a sense of validation and normalcy for members group activities for addiction recovery who may have thought that they were alone, or wrong for feeling as they do. Keep reading to learn specific activities that can help your clients in a group therapy session. Discuss the upside to stress, i.e. the positive role that some forms of stress can play in your life.
Practice Meditation
Kayla is a Mental Health Counselor who earned her degree from Niagara University in Lewiston, New York. She has provided psychotherapy in a residential treatment program and an outpatient addiction treatment facility in New York as well as an inpatient addiction rehab in Ontario, Canada. She has experience working with individuals living with a variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and trauma. Thanks for reading this resource on 58 Substance Abuse Group Therapy Activities for Recovery. Recovery group work is invaluable when it comes to helping participants recover and rebuild relational bonds within the group.
Gratitude Lists
This makes the experience even more relevant and engaging for everyone involved. Writing personal letters about one’s recovery journey can be an incredibly therapeutic activity. Group members can write letters to themselves, their addiction, or someone who has supported them through their journey.
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Below is a list of therapy topics and themes that may be used during group therapy for substance use disorders. Although the list is comprehensive, it is by no means a complete list of every topic or theme that may be touched upon during treatment. The helpline at AddictionResource.net is available 24/7 to discuss the treatment needs of yourself or a loved one. This helpline is answered by Legacy Healing Center, an addiction treatment provider with treatment facilities in California, Florida, Ohio, and New Jersey. Learning to be present and mindful is a vital part of the recovery process. It supports well-being and helps prevent people from becoming overwhelmed or giving in to triggers.
These activities may include drawing, painting, music, dance, writing, etc. Clients are not always willing therapy participants; some are court-ordered to attend or there to have privileges restored. Some attendees may be there “voluntarily,” but only to save their marriage or keep a job, not believing they need help. In residential treatment, clients attend mandatory groups as part of the daily schedule.
- Addiction treatment is challenging but a very transformative experience.
- It supports well-being and helps prevent people from becoming overwhelmed or giving in to triggers.
- Whether it’s 12-step meetings, SMART Recovery, or group therapy, these services are a crucial part of drug and alcohol treatment programs and aftercare support.
- If you’re a mental health professional, you can Join our community and add your practice listing here.
Sometimes, the best response is simply “okay,” or none at all… and keep moving to avoid the group becoming a complaint session. You could also acknowledge the client’s perspective and ask to meet with them after group to discuss. Once their original paper is returned to them, they can read and share with the group. This can lead to a powerful discussion about image, reputation, feeling fake, etc. Beyond rehab we provide a free 12-month aftercare package that makes heavy use of group therapy and 12-step programs.
- These substance abuse group activities focus on equipping participants with accurate and comprehensive information about addiction – its biological, psychological, and social underpinnings.
- Many individuals in recovery struggle with self-esteem and self-worth.
- Behavioral activation involves identifying and engaging in positive behavior.
- The group can also comfort members through times of crisis and guide them.
The purpose of this exercise is designed to help clients discover and celebrate their positive traits and affirmations, so providing clients with several strips to choose from is critical. Discuss how treatments for physical illnesses – like broken bones or infections – are similar to treatments for psychological illnesses like addiction. Brainstorm ideas for the ideal hospital or retreat to provide you with mental and emotional healing. Experiential family therapy is a group therapy technique where family members interact with each other during an activity.
They are often available at addiction treatment centers but can also be found at community centers or in other public locations. Sessions may occur anywhere from daily to monthly, depending on the level of care. For example, intensive outpatient treatment may require meeting twice a week, while inpatient programs may offer daily sessions. CBT skills group is a course that teaches mindfulness, your emotions, and the interconnection of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Addiction treatment is challenging but a very transformative experience.
These exercises allow individuals to practice with group members how they will handle difficult situations without relapsing. Problem-solving practice helps identify strategies to support people in coping with the difficulties of life and creates the ability to solve everyday problems. Creative art may also build trust in others and improve one’s emotional state.
- Clients weigh in on the issues of others in order to offer suggestions or provide outside perspectives, broadening the individual’s understanding of the conflict.
- With 4 years of relevant experience, she is passionate about conveying accurate and up-to-date information through her writing.
- It is commonly used in a rehabilitation environment to help addicts come to terms with their addiction and explore its origins.
- Here are 50 common activities that you’ll probably encounter during your recovery journey.
Fun and Engaging Addiction Recovery Group Activities
Sometimes, people working hard to recover from addiction feel like they are stuck in a rut. It can be challenging, especially if you’re doing the same things every day. When the song is over, play it once or twice more, and see what you notice in the replays.