“Holistic” is a term used in several parts of society. Medical care providers strive for a holistic approach to their patients. Colleges and universities now consider applicants after reviewing their applications holistically and evaluating every aspect of the application file. Nutritionists educate and suggest diets based on how they impact a person’s body, mind, and soul.
Merriam-Webster defines holistic as “relating to or concerned with wholes or with complete systems rather than with the analysis of, treatment of, or dissection into parts.” Holistic comes from the Greek word, “holos,” meaning “whole,” and has been a part of our speech for nearly 100 years.
So, what are holistic approaches to relapse prevention? This article will explain and discuss some of the most effective holistic approaches.
What Are Holistic Approaches to Relapse Prevention?
A holistic approach to relapse prevention considers a person’s physical, emotional, social, and spiritual health. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or talk therapy, is often a staple of addiction treatment. It focuses on understanding feelings and emotions and changing negative thought patterns. However, CBT by itself is not holistic.
Examples of other practices and activities that can support CBT to provide a holistic approach to relapse prevention include:
- Mindfulness and meditation
- Yoga
- Breathwork
- Nutrition
- Exercise
- Creative activities such as art, music, and journaling
- Spiritual practices or therapy that happens in nature
- Acupuncture
These holistic approaches are believed to reduce cravings and emotional regulation and improve overall health and wellness in addiction recovery. Paired with CBT, they can create a great approach to relapse prevention that addresses all of a person’s emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.
Common Causes of Relapse
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) estimates that 40% to 60% of people who have received treatment for substance use will relapse. It is not inevitable, but if relapse does happen, it doesn’t necessarily mean that treatment has failed. Some common causes of relapse include:
- Environmental and emotional triggers
- Cravings
- Lack of coping skills or support
- Stressful life events
- Medical issues
- Mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression
- Boredom
If you consider each of these causes of relapse, it can highlight why a holistic approach to relapse prevention is necessary. Focusing on one area is not enough. For example, having excellent nutrition and dietary habits won’t give you the coping skills to navigate a difficult family interaction, but if you have been participating in CBT and have regularly been relieving your stress through exercise and meditation, you will have a good chance for a better outcome. Developing as many tools as possible in each domain will give you a stronger chance of preventing relapse. A holistic approach to relapse prevention will build great self-awareness and better overall health. Many people report feeling greater empowerment and more calm, leading to increased resilience.
Inspiration for a Holistic Approach
While studies show that a holistic approach to relapse prevention is the way to go, it can also feel like a lot to take on all at once, particularly if some domains are new to you or you’re unsure where to start. This is okay; try to take it slowly. Don’t completely overhaul your life in one day. Instead, start by making small, incremental changes each day. Try a new mindfulness routine one day. Visit a yoga class a different day, or even the following week. Try to create a short journaling habit for one month and do it for just a few minutes. Remember–progress over perfection. You will eventually get there, and you will be grateful that you took the time to build a foundation to last.
Addiction Treatment at Infinity Recovery
We are a detox and residential treatment facility in San Diego. If you or a loved one have been struggling with addiction, know that there is help available, and you can do this. We genuinely believe in a holistic approach to treatment that will support all aspects of a person’s well-being. Contact us today to discuss what treatment could look like for you.
