58 Substance Abuse Group Therapy Activities for Recovery

Each member of the group writes down a goal they would like to accomplish to improve mental health, such as diet, exercise, sleep, mindfulness, etc. Music therapy is an excellent substance abuse group therapy activity because it provides a soothing environment for members to experience healing. There are several ways to use music therapy to deliver exceptional behavioral treatment. As therapists, we know loneliness can sometimes be a trigger for our clients. Another option for your substance abuse group activities, have the clients discuss being alone.

Substance abuse group activities

Talk about how differently people perceive things based on who they are and the situation at hand. Being a part of a group can help establish a source of accountability for group members. Group sessions provide them with a set time within their routine to focus on their recovery. A 3-page narrative therapy worksheet for exploring a past substance use relapse.

How does Two Dreams use group therapy in addiction treatment?

• Other goals of group therapy include gaining inspiration through the recovery of others, self-identifying as a recovering addicting, and examining core values.
• If you are interested in exploring group topics for substance abuse or are ready to embark on your recovery journey, reach out to us today.
• Group members can feel uplifted when they come to group sessions and learn to appreciate the small things.

Loneliness, grief, and loss are very much related to both anxiety and depression. The activities should reflect the goals and composition of group members as well as the theoretical approach used by the group process group ideas for substance abuse leader or therapist. There are many activities to incorporate into group therapy for adults. In 1905 he was teaching education classes on hygiene for patients struggling with tuberculosis (Pratt, 1907).

Practice Management, EHR/EMR and Teletherapy Platform

Research indicates that individuals who engage in treatment and remain committed to recovery often experience positive outcomes. These outcomes include significantly reduced drug and alcohol misuse, decreased criminal activity, and improved overall social and psychological well-being. Topics could include the neurological aspects of addiction, the cycle of addiction, and the long-term effects on physical and mental health. With knowledge, individuals can better comprehend the need for treatment and strategies to overcome addiction. TherapyPatron.com helps mental health professionals better serve their clients.

• Try a few of these and see how they resonate with your group then figure out how you can proceed.
• A printable deck of cards with 40 positive quotes that can be used as affirmations.
• After completing a treatment program, individuals benefit from a well-structured aftercare plan.
• Some clients may present with reluctance to participate in the different forms of group therapy during their treatment program.

Frequently Asked Questions

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. Two Dreams utilizes process groups as opposed to theme/support groups. Process groups are focused on self-exploration and giving/receiving feedback.

Mindfulness

Narrative group therapy is an existential approach to therapy and allows clients to take ownership of their story by sharing it and rewriting it (Clark, 2014). There are several factors that should be considered as a therapist or leader begins to perform activities in group therapy. A needs assessment is essential to determine the purpose of the group and the specific activities, format, and structure that will follow. As humans, we are social creatures with personal histories based on the various groups that make up our lives. If other disruptive behaviors occur in group (side conversations, snoring, etc.) address them in the moment objectively (without shaming).

Finding Help in Addiction Treatment

If you’re looking for more science-based ways to help others enhance their wellbeing, check out this signature collection of 17 validated positive psychology tools for practitioners. A variety of group activities can be incorporated in the termination phase to assist in this process and help group members transition out of group therapy. Closing activities should highlight important aspects and reinforce any themes of the session. These activities help to unite group members and encourage them to work on themselves outside of the session before the next meeting.

Positive Psychology Activities for Improving Mental Health

• These steps are especially comforting for members who need a guiding hand to support them through their change.
• The “odd person out” gets to go into the middle of the group and provide the next set of commands.
• Talk about the importance of good sleep hygiene (avoiding too much caffeine, avoiding screen time right before bed, getting up at the same time each day, etc.).
• Triggers are very dangerous because they increase the risk of relapse.
• A needs assessment is essential to determine the purpose of the group and the specific activities, format, and structure that will follow.

Triggers are very dangerous because they increase the risk of relapse. It is always important for group members to discuss any current issues and get advice and support from other members of the group. You, nor your loved one, are under any obligation to commit to a Legacy Healing Center treatment program when calling the helpline. Role-playing is an effective way to help group members practice handling any tough situations that may arise during treatment, such as making apologies and amends to family members. Participants can share how they are practicing self-care to encourage and inspire their peers.

What is a Recovery Support Group?

They also work to develop their communication skills and learn to engage in fun, healthy social experiences. The group dynamic encourages honest feedback and facilitates bonding between individuals with shared experiences. 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. Although process groups can focus on any of these five topics individually, one process group may tackle multiple topics.

A sheet of paper is passed out to each member, and they will write their name on the sheet. The paper is passed around so that other members can write positive affirmations directed to the member. This activity can be uplifting for individuals struggling with depression and decrease levels of anxiety. Expressive art storytelling can be made into a group activity by having members take part in expressive art together. An example would be to have group members individually draw or paint to the sound of music in a way that depicts their personal story for a specified amount of time.