From writing a poem to taking photographs at the local park, there are several ways to get creative.
While these outlets are fun, they can also have some hidden health benefits, especially for people in recovery.
Why Creativity in Addiction Recovery Is Important
Creative activities are more than something to do in your free time. Creative outlets in recovery can promote comprehensive healing. They allow recovering drug addicts or alcoholics to find a healthier way of expressing and coping with their many emotions. They can also promote greater long-term success with sobriety as these activities can fill the void that substance abuse left behind. There is even some evidence to suggest that art therapy can increase overall well-being.1Ways to Improve Creative Thinking in Recovery
Because creativity can play a critical role in the sobriety journey, knowing how to increase creativity in recovery is also important. As a Boston addiction treatment center, we believe in a comprehensive approach to recovery including creativity, so we are sharing some tips on how to improve creativity in recovery and reap the benefits.Add it to Your Schedule
It is important to take the time to get creative, but it is not uncommon for these creative activities to get pushed to the wayside. Especially if you recently left an outpatient program for addiction and are focused on rebuilding your life, it can be tempting to skip this creative time altogether. Instead of letting this become the norm, make creativity a part of your routine. Set aside some time at least once a week for something creative and follow through. It will quickly become habit.Unplug
One of the easiest ways to improve creativity in recovery is to make sure that you allow yourself uninterrupted time to be creative. Avoid distractions by unplugging. When you let your creativity flow, you will find it easier to do so in the future.Remove Negativity
Creativity is supposed to be enjoyable. Instead of letting negative emotions fester or letting your fear of failure prevent you from trying, just go for it. In recovery, negativity can set back your progress, but creativity can propel you forward.Find What Works for You
Being creative isn’t limited to just drawing or writing. Instead of forcing yourself into one of these preconceived notions of what creativity is, there are several other creative outlets out there that you can turn to like dance, playing an instrument, singing, cooking, and even rearranging your room. Try several activities until you find something that you enjoy.When you are able to improve your creativity and practice it regularly, it may carry over into noticeable progress in your recovery journey. At Banyan Massachusetts, we believe that long-term and comprehensive recovery from a substance abuse problem requires several types of rehab therapies including evidence-based practices and holistic approaches, including those related to creativity.
It is time to fight back against substance abuse. Take the first step to get sober or help your loved one get sober today by calling 888-280-4763.
Sources:
Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa is the National Director of Digital Marketing and is responsible for a multitude of integrated campaigns and events in the behavioral health and addictions field. All articles have been written by Alyssa and medically reviewed by our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Darrin Mangiacarne.
