Beyond Talk: Learning How to Replace Addictive Behaviors using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Overcoming addiction, getting unstuck from unhealthy behaviors, and moving on with your life is tough work. An individual dependent upon or addicted to substances can see a counselor for months or years to gain insights into why he or she abuses alcohol or drugs, engages in compulsive gambling, sex, or other addictive behaviors and still be stuck. After drying out or detoxification and undergoing treatment, however, without some solid strategies in their toolkit, the person will have a rough road ahead in recovery. While talking things out on an individual or group therapy basis is an integral part of the healing process, it’s necessary to go beyond talk: Patients need to learn how to replace addictive behaviors.

Want to Break Up with Your Therapist? Read This First

By Leslie Thompson

Equine Therapy: Healing Horses

By Colin Gilbert

Equine therapy is known primarily for its success in helping people with physical and mental disabilities. But new programs are demonstrating that equine-assisted forms of therapy can also strengthen those recovering from trauma, mental illness, and addiction.

Pets: Natural Stress Relievers

Stress is a major trigger for alcohol and drug abuse, especially among recovering addicts. Even non-dependent drinkers often look to alcohol as a way to “decompress” or “take the edge off,” which ends up leading to even more stress. So finding healthy, positive ways to relieve stress will decrease your chances for relapse as well as benefit your general health.