10 Substance abuse groups topic ideas for discussion

Group therapy sessions can be the only form of therapy that someone engages in. However, it is often used in conjunction with individual therapy as part of a treatment plan, as many people benefit from the different skills each form can offer. Group therapy activities in support groups can help people learn and actively engage, build skills in self-care, and find role models to help them in their daily life. In this blog, we discuss some topics and activities that can help facilitate a successful recovery. For all your therapy practice and substance abuse group activities needs Theraplatform can help.

substance abuse group activities

Participants support and nurture each other like a family by reinforcing good behaviors and helping each other cope during difficult tasks. These groups further encourage exploration of emotional and interpersonal conflicts, confrontation about denial and harmful behaviors, and discussion about responsibilities and limitations. They add structure to substance abuse group activities chaotic lives and provide a safe environment in which to practice newly developed skills. Living in active substance abuse leads to many dangerous coping mechanisms. People learn to rely upon these behaviors after months or years of using. Breaking these unhealthy routines takes time but addiction treatment centers keep this goal at the forefront.

Stressed Out?

Process groups are introspective groups that help individuals examine their thoughts and feelings in greater detail for personal growth. Members can gain greater insight into their relationship with others and themselves, and work towards healthy behaviors that promote improved day-to-day functioning. There are many benefits that can occur within a group setting which includes reducing isolation. Active addiction can cause clients to distance themselves from their loved ones and friends which can make recovery feel lonely. Group therapy can give them a chance to feel connected to others, and witness others in their own recovery.

  • Thérèse is both a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with the state of New Jersey.
  • Whether you or a loved one is seeking help, learning a few group therapy topics can help you know what it can do for you; it can be the first step towards a healthier and happier life.
  • Understanding the situations, emotions, and environments that can trigger cravings and relapse is crucial for sustained recovery.

Those who are affected by drug addiction may suffer from a variety of health problems, which automatically places a burden on the National Health Service. When it comes to illegal drugs, there are harsh penalties for those who are found in possession. Those who are found in possession of a Class A drug such as heroin, even if it is for personal use, could face up to seven years in prison plus an unlimited fine. Supplying a Class A drug could mean a life sentence plus an unlimited fine. The Blackberry Center is a 64-bed behavioral hospital in St. Cloud, Florida. Nestled in a tranquil setting just outside of Orlando, our mental health facility provides patients with a safe place to reflect, reset and heal.

Drug Abuse Facts – The Types of Drugs Involved

If there is enough time, the partners can switch when the object(s) has been found. This activity requires group members to physically interact with each other, so it may not be appropriate for all groups. All members get in a circle and take the hand of someone who is not right next to them, then try to unravel the knot they have created without letting go of anyone’s hand. For more tips on facilitating check-in and the role of personal interactions between group members, have a look at the videos we’ve linked to below. For example, if you have time for a longer check-in from each member, a phrase like “tell us the story of…” can be a good prompt for members to share more than a few words.

  • This is very unhealthy, so it’s important to explore ways to manage stress and increase a healthy state of mind without having to turn to substances.
  • Discuss how treatments for physical illnesses – like broken bones or infections – are similar to treatments for psychological illnesses like addiction.
  • At Magnolia Recovery of LA, you’ll receive health related education, therapeutic counseling, nutrition, exercise, and spiritual development.
  • Effective group leaders can help create an environment where members can challenge each other in a productive manner while practicing these life skills.
  • Suffering from an addiction disorder might influence someone to develop situational depression.
  • Our caring admissions navigators are available 24/7 to answer your questions about what to expect at rehab, levels of addiction treatment, and how to start the rehab admissions process.

Of those who do attempt, merely 25 percent achieve success in reducing their alcohol intake for more than a year. We find that many of our clients are unsure of what to expect, and need time to feel out the group dynamic before speaking up. Nevertheless, it is not just https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/what-is-alcohol-abuse-how-to-treat-alcoholism/ the health service that is affected by drug abuse and addiction. The police service and the criminal justice system are also affected when drug-related crimes are committed. Class C drugs are prescription medications such as anabolic steroids or benzodiazepines.

Benefits of Group Therapy

Our substance abuse treatment programs offer mental health counseling, medication-assisted treatment, and other evidence-based services to help you or your loved one stay sober. Substance abuse group therapy can facilitate healthy discussions about relatable topics in recovery. Group therapy activities for substance abuse can be related to a variety of topics including education, shame, guilt, triggers, cravings, boundaries, health, mental health, and sober support. Additionally, you can use substance abuse group therapy activities for teens if you are working with a younger population.

While negative feelings such as guilt are not exclusive to those with a diagnosis of depression or anxiety, those suffering from these disorders often have the most trouble confronting those feelings. To continue the exercise, encourage the participants to swap roles and repeat the activity. To see the other questions or print this handout for use in your group sessions, you can access it in the Positive Psychology Toolkit©. We suggest you browse these articles for more ideas on how to set effective goals with your group therapy clients—this article on Goal-setting in Counselling and Therapy is a great place to start. Add one activity that would help you improve your physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual health. For example, you might decide that you will exercise instead of sitting on the sofa while watching television.

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