Treating substance abuse with art therapy

Hayley Granton — The terms "art" and "substance abuse" often do not appear in the same sentence. However, when we are talking about some of the ways in which such serious conditions can be treated, these two terms actually have an intrinsic link. Art therapy methods are becoming more and more popular in the treatment of various conditions, so how exactly does it relate to substance abuse?

The Root of the Problem

It should be no surprise to you that art therapy deals with finding the root of the problem. Through studying drawings and paintings, therapists might be able to determine why exactly the person has such substance abuse issues in the first place. By figuring out the primary cause, that issue can be treated in addition to the surface problems, which continue to pervade.

An Outlet for Expression

Not all substance abusers want to be in therapy, but they need to be. They might feel frustration, resentment, and an array of other negative emotions, and they could feel like taking these out on the people around them. Instead of acting out in these potentially violent ways, people can bring their emotions to art and show what they are feeling through a painting or a drawing.

Seeing the Path

Participating in art therapy practices also gives the abuser the ability to notice the journey that he or she has gone on. At the end, these individuals can look back to see where they started. They might even notice some of the signs of abuse and frustration in their own old works of art. However, they will also be able to see where they have gone and rejoice in the pride it has given them.

A New Hobby

Sometimes, people abuse drugs and alcohol when they have nothing else to do. If their minds start to wander, they may be encouraged to return to their hurtful ways. Instead of letting this become a major problem once again, individuals now have the wonderful world of art to explore. When they feel as though they want to have a drink or take drugs, they can bring out their art supplies instead. These practices can channel feelings in them that are tranquil and harmonious instead of angry and aggressive.

When you look at the issue of substance abuse, you can clearly see that art therapy really has the potential to help. Therefore, substance abusers and their caregiver should be open to the joys and relief it can bring.

About the Author

Hayley is a drug and alcohol counselor, author and blogger residing in Florida. If you or someone you know is battling addiction, Delray Recovery Center may help. For more information regarding the harmful effects of drugs, visit http://www.drugscope.org.uk.