Holistic, natural and all-encompassing approaches to self-soothe addiction

There is evidence and research that shows that the utilization of spiritual, homeopathic, natural and holistic ways of healing has long-term effects on one’s recovery from chronic illness, including those who suffer from the disease of addiction. There are some simple practices that facilities, programs and individuals can do to create a soothing and healing environment. These practices can be administered to soothe the body, the mind and the spirit, allowing for one’s healing to be more complete and occur at deeper levels. As we explore these holistic approaches, please keep in mind that you should also seek consultation from your healthcare professional in the use of these techniques.

Patients who are physically detoxing from medication or substances that they may have used during their addiction can suffer from post-acute withdrawal. This type of withdrawal is an extended withdrawal from whatever chemicals have been harming the body as a result of addictive behavior. There are holistic ways of addressing the ongoing phenomenon of cravings that afflict those suffering from withdrawal. The ongoing ways of dealing with some of the co-occurring disorders and side effects of our disease can be utilized to support a more complete and deep healing process in the initial stages of the recovery journey. Some of the most common side effects of withdrawal, post-acute withdrawal and cravings in early recovery are identified as insomnia, anxiety, depression, mood swings, digestive issues, discomfort and aches/pains in almost all substance use disorders. In this two-part blog, we are going to walk through a few simple approaches that residential, outpatient and even private practitioners can easily provide as complementary holistic accompaniments during treatment. These simple approaches can be placed in the waiting areas of offices to improve, enhance and nurture one’s ability to stay in treatment. By utilizing these self-soothing techniques in your services, the hope is that patients will be motivated to receive the level of care necessary for further healing so that they can stay committed to their journey long enough for the miracle to happen.

Some of the natural ways of addressing the post-acute withdrawal, cravings and early recovery side effects include the use of chamomile, melatonin, GABA, acupuncture, whirlpools, massage therapy, yoga, Reiki, mindfulness and nutritional foods. These are all known to have healing properties. This names only a few of the holistic approaches that can be utilized to address these areas of concern. I would love other people to contribute their thoughts and give examples of practices that they are using to achieve positive outcomes. My hope is that this can be a living discussion around this ever-evolving practice of providing natural, homeopathic and supportive ways of healing this chronic and incurable disease that over 23 million Americans live with on a daily basis.

Simply providing or having access to chamomile tea in your lobby, patient dining areas, or snack rooms can go a long way. It can assist someone in being more open, calm and relaxed while receiving services or preparing for a restful evening.

Chamomile tea is a traditional drink that is mild enough for small children in small quantities, and powerful enough to treat numerous maladies from insomnia to stomach pain. Chamomile tea can help treat sleep deprivation, a common problem in the early stages of recovery. It is an ancient remedy that dates back to ancient Egypt. It was also utilized by the Romans as a beverage and as incense. Today, chamomile tea can be bought in a variety of forms. Varieties include dried flower heads, infused tea, and as a liquid extract, and chamomile can be found in creams or ointments. It can be used both internally and for topical usage. Chamomile is known for its nerve soothing and sedative qualities. Although there are no scientific studies on the effects on humans, studies that have been performed on animals have confirmed that in small quantities, the plant relaxes anxiety. If administered in large quantities, it can be used as a sleep aid.

In 2005 the American Chemical Society Journal published some research that referenced chamomile tea. Research showed that an increased level of hippurate (which is associated with botanical phenolics) is found to boost immunity and fight bacteria. So for us as treatment professionals, chamomile tea is an automatic “go-to” when women enter into our care. It can assist our patients with sleep, anxiety, cravings and post-acute withdrawal so that they may feel calmer and more relaxed with themselves and in their environment.

Another natural remedy that I believe helps addicts in early recovery is the usage of melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that is found naturally in the human body. It is most effective for treatment of persons who suffer from chronic pain. It is used to help regulate sleep cycles or treat symptoms of insomnia. In addition to helping regulate and create more effective sleeping patterns, melatonin helps sleep disorders in blind people and children with autism.

There are cases where people may not be aware that they have a melatonin deficiency. This deficiency can happen as we age because our body decreases the amount of melatonin made over time. As we get older, getting to sleep can sometimes be more difficult. Melatonin is best used as an aid in assisting someone to sleep but not necessarily keeping them asleep. The use of this natural hormone can greatly help folks in early recovery have the much-needed rest that will support them during their waking hours. Melatonin is inexpensive to purchase, is accessible over the counter, and is a simple, easy solution to what is a longstanding and chronic issue among many in early recovery.

Addicts who are in early recovery can sometimes struggle with getting to sleep for both emotional and physical reasons. This can be due to the chronic use of alcohol over time. Today and in past years, many people are prescribed sleep aids that can be detrimental to one’s recovery. Sometimes it takes a simple solution such as utilizing a hormone that our body is already used to having in its system. This is critical to one’s overall emotional, physical and spiritual health. Anything that we can do to improve that process in natural and holistic ways is helpful to the person who is in early recovery.

The use of nicotine and caffeine can create unhealthy sleep patterns as well. There are many studies that outline the healthy benefits of a good night’s rest. An adequate amount of sleep goes way beyond feeling better and improvement in mood. Sleeping well improves our memory. Our minds are busy while we sleep. It’s kind of like a computer’s CPU. While we sleep, it is consolidating our memories by practicing them. Anything new that you are trying to learn is being practiced while you sleep. If during your waking time you are learning new techniques of self-care in new recovery, it is important to rest the mind and body adequately.

Studies have shown that when individuals receive six or more hours of sleep, there is a reduction in the C-reactive protein, a chemical associated with high risk for heart attack or sleep apnea.

Stay tuned for the second installment of this blog, where I discuss ancient rituals: hydrotherapy, yoga and meditation.