Practical Methods for Treating Depression and Substance Abuse Simultaneously

Practical Methods for Treating Depression and Substance Abuse Simultaneously. « Holistic Lifestyles Radio

Practical Methods for Treating Depression and Substance Abuse Simultaneously.

by Holistic Lifestyles Radio on Oct.29, 2010, under Home

The National Institute For Holistic Addiction Studies (NIFHAS) reviewed outcomes of four substance abuse treatment participants who had participated in the program Drumming Off Drugs™ as part of their treatment experience. Specifically, we looked at changes in the Depression Scores using Becks Depression Inventory prior to the 10 session drumming class and then after completion of at least 8 of the 10 sessions.

Practical Methods for Treating Depression and Substance Abuse Simultaneously. There is significant evidence that co-occurrence of depression and substance abuse is prevalent among inpatient drug rehabilitation clients. Treatment paradigms for drug abuse range widely, and include pharmacologic, cognitive, and holistic approaches, and there is growing interest in programs that integrate these various methods to treat both the depression and substance abuse concurrently.

Rhythmic group drumming as a rehabilitative therapy modality has recently been bolstered by key scientific findings of interactions between music/drumming activity and the release of neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin. Music therapy in general has been gaining in popularity in recent years. Drumming is effective for improving concentration, a sense of connectedness to others and self-esteem in recovery populations.

Drumming represents a music therapy that requires limited fine motor coordination, is readily learned by all populations (normal and disabled) and all ages in a very short period of time, and that does not require significant expense. Rhythmic drumming also slows brain wave activity similar to meditation. allowing a more open dialogue during treatment. This is a very useful and powerful state of mind for a recovering addict. Drumming Off Drugs is believed to be a particularly useful therapeutic tool for improving substance abuse rehabilitation outcomes and recovery resiliency.

Find More Information: http://www.nifhas.com/