Addiction – Why Should You Go For Group Therapy?

For those seeking recovery from any sort of addiction, group therapy is a valuable tool. A group therapies success relies solely on the participation and dedication of the group. It is a tried and true method of recovery for many people struggling from addiction, as it gathers people facing similar disorder to create an atmosphere of deeper understanding and support.

Group therapy approach has proven to be extremely beneficial in helping people achieve and maintain abstinence, as it offers a number of benefits that can help one achieve a more permanent recovery and lower the relapse risks.

This approach helps each participant see a success story, when one member of the group succeeds; it creates a positive response from other group members. Allowing each member to see that others share the same struggles can be an important part of the recovery process.

Here’s How Group Therapy Works

• Members of this group introduce themselves, admit to their addiction, and mention about their date of last use.

• They talk about how they are doing and discuss about any cravings or temptations since their last group meeting.

• If anyone has fallen off-track since the last session, the group will support and help them create a plan to prevent further relapse.

• The group therapist will introduce a topic of discussion and ask members to discuss how it applies to their recovery, individually.

• At the end of each session, each member is asked to talk about their plans for the next few days in an effort to help them structure their time, effectively.

Benefits of Group Therapy

• Companionship – group therapy often brings people together, forming strong bonds in the process. This solidarity can prove very beneficial on the road to recovery, as members are more likely to hold one another accountable.

• Communication – the seating arrangement in a group therapy is as such, which allows optimal communication where members can talk freely about their experiences with addiction. Group therapy boosts confidence and social skills in its members and allows the speaker to sort their pain in a productive manner.

• Insight – keeping an open perspective can aid each individual to make positive decisions in recovery. Sharing stories, receiving feedback or tips to improve is in itself supporting growth in the group. Members encourage one another and often share critique with the most non-critical approach.

• Accessibility – group therapy is often offered to patients as a part of treatment in most rehabs. These group sessions are held by therapists and doctors with others in the facility. With a proper structured program, these groups have sessions for group discussions, encouragement and resources to aid in recovery.

Here’s How to make The Most from Each Session of the Group Therapy

• Share experiences with the group and be an observant listener.

• Accept and offer input with an open, gentle mind.

• Take notes and keep a journal to track your progress.

• Offer ideas to open discussions.

• Ask questions.

• Share failures and success stories with the group.

• Be encouraging to your fellow member.

• Always return after a missed out session or relapse.

• Hold yourself and others accountable for recovery.

• Reach out to your peers for support of any kind.

You will always find Hope, on your road to recovery!