Drug Rehab and the Arts

Art therapy can be a very useful tool for people who are undergoing treatment for addiction. Whether they choose to use painting, dancing, music, poetry or some other art form, art therapy can provide individuals with a way to understand and cope with addiction. If you or a loved one are suffering from addiction and would like to try art therapy, research the drug rehab centers in your area. Whether you live in San Diego or on the East Coast, there will be a program near you that can help.

What Is Art Therapy?

Art therapy is a way to get a person to use their creativity and imagination to create art to express him or herself. This helps to find ways of expression that are healthy and productive, and expands the patient's communication. It does not matter what kind of art is used. Some examples include painting, sculpting, dancing, acting, music or poetry; but whatever genre of art is employed, the purpose is to get the patient to talk about images and ideas in therapy and better cope with their addiction. Finding drug rehab centers near you will give you more information about art therapy programs that might help. 

How Can Art Help?

Art therapy helps patients focus on their inner experiences (their feelings, perceptions and imaginations). Through a variety of techniques that are heavily research-based, the therapist uses art to build therapeutic relationships with their clients; by using the art the patients create to jumpstart a discussion, or use their images in free thought association activities. 

This can help create healthy coping mechanisms and engage the patient in a productive discussion. The great benefit of art therapy is that it can be used no matter if you live in San Diego or across the country, and at any time of day if you find yourself in a situation where you need a coping mechanism. 

Where Can I Find a Program?

Whether you live in San Diego or the Midwest, the licensed drug rehab centers near you will also have more information regarding art therapy and how it can help you or a loved one if you are struggling with addiction. 

Ryan Muir is a health writer for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Miramar Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers. Follow on Twitter.