Alternative Alcohol Addiction Resources and Programs

If you have looked into traditional alcohol addiction rehabilitation programs and just feel they aren't for you, don't get discouraged! There are a variety of alternative alcohol addiction and abuse resources and programs popping up throughout the United States, Canada, and overseas.

Consider some of the most popular alternative alcohol abuse treatment methods available:

Nutritional Therapy
This type of therapy is considered a holistic therapy because it incorporates the connections between the mind and the body in working towards recovering from alcohol addiction. The main function of this type of therapy is working towards using the proper nutrition and necessary vitamins and supplements to be free of antidepressants or medication and allowing imbalances in the brain, due to excessive drinking, to return to normal.

In order to successfully complete this type of therapy, it is essential to work in conjunction with a nutritionist or a specialist that can guide you through the right types of foods and supplements you will need to take in order to correct imbalances. Nutritional therapists also claim this method aids in minimizing withdrawal symptoms, restoring healthy emotions, and healing other physical symptoms related to heavy drinking.

Acupuncture
The multiple benefits of acupuncture have recently been researched and it is quickly becoming a common way to manage pain or disease. New research suggests that acupuncture used in conjunction with another type of therapy has been an excellent resource for alcohol addiction recovery. Many treatment centers are now offering acupuncture as a portion of their recovery programs.

Acupuncturists will individualize treatment for a particular addict to determine exactly how the treatment will be the most beneficial. From here they will prescribe a treatment plan including a set number of sessions and a focus for that session to help in dealing with excesses and deficiencies in certain areas of the body.

Herbal Therapy
When the conventional drugs are not desired or have not had the desired affect, you may want to consider herbal alcohol addiction therapy. Many drug and alcohol treatment centers now offer an herbal therapy treatment program, as an alternative to their traditional programs.

So far research has shown that herbs such as evening primrose reduce alcohol cravings, milk thistle helps in treating potential liver diseases caused from excessive alcohol consumption, and herbs like skullcap can be used in order to treat withdrawal symptoms. Please keep in mind that it is absolutely essential to work with an herbal therapist or specialist when taking on this type of treatment to ensure that you do not mix two herbs that don't work well together.

Art/Music Therapy
This is a growing professional because many alcohol abusers are finding alternative addiction therapy like art and music therapy especially helpful in recovering from alcohol addiction. Again, these types of therapy are often coupled with traditional therapy or counseling sessions, as well as group meetings.

The basis of art and music therapy is to be used as a vehicle for expression to aid in healing and to promote personal awareness and growth.