The Role of Wilderness Therapy in Treating Alcoholism

Wilderness therapy has been found to have positive outcomes for patients with a variety of mental health problems. Those suffering from substance abuse can also benefit from a program that incorporates wilderness therapy. The good news is that a wilderness program can help patients with substance abuse recover much faster than treatment in a standard clinical setting. This article discusses the benefits of wilderness therapy for patients suffering from alcoholism and the role of wilderness therapy in treating alcoholism.

What is Wilderness Therapy?

Wilderness therapy is a type of therapy that uses nature to help patients heal from psychological issues. Studies have found that the combination of being in nature and interacting with this nature can have a powerful effect on patients. Patients can receive wilderness therapy in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and clinical programs. Wilderness therapy can provide a safe and nurturing environment for patients who don’t feel like they can open up in a clinical setting. The therapeutic value of nature was first noticed by doctors at the University of Colorado in the early 1990s. Since then, many wilderness therapy programs have been developed to meet the specific needs of patients.

Benefits of Wilderness Therapy for Patients With Alcoholism

The benefits of wilderness therapy for patients with alcoholism can include: 

• Decreased anxiety
• Better emotional regulation
• Improved self-esteem
• Enhanced coping skills

Role of Wilderness Therapy in Treating Alcoholism

The role of wilderness therapy in treating alcoholism is to help patients detach from their drinking. Wilderness therapy patients may experience a sense of freedom and unparalleled self-awareness during their time in nature. They will have the opportunity to reflect on the relationship between themselves and their drinking habits. By actively de-emphasizing the results of their drinking, patients can better detach themselves from their own drinking habits.

This can open the door to a healthier relationship with themselves. Wilderness therapy patients may also develop a deeper appreciation for the environment around them. Their increased connection to nature and their surroundings can help patients with addiction get a new perspective on life. Wilderness therapy is also a highly effective treatment for patients with co-occurring mental illness because it relies on self-reflection and non-verbal communication.

How to Get Started with a Wilderness Therapy Program

Wilderness therapy programs can be found at many hospitals and clinics. The first step is to speak with your doctor to see if wilderness therapy is an appropriate treatment option. Wilderness therapy programs are generally designed for patients who have experienced serious trauma. In order to participate, patients must have been through an extensive evaluation process to assess their needs.

Once accepted into the program, patients will experience a series of weekly wilderness therapy sessions. Wilderness therapy sessions last from 3 to 5 days and patients will spend the majority of the time in the wilderness. In addition to the time in nature, sessions will also include group discussions on topics such as trauma and grief. Other activities during the week will help patients explore their mental health issues.

Wrapping Up: The Role of Wilderness Therapy in Treating Alcoholism

Wilderness therapy can help patients with alcohol dependence recover faster than those receiving standard treatment. This type of therapy provides a safe and nurturing environment that can help patients open up. Wilderness therapy can also be effective in treating co-occurring mental illness because it relies on self-reflection and non-verbal communication. The benefits of wilderness therapy include decreased anxiety, better emotional regulation, and enhanced coping skills. Getting started with a wilderness therapy program may be a bit difficult, but it is well worth the effort.

Trust the Experts

Addiction and mental health disorders can affect anyone. If you or a loved one are currently living with one of these issues, help is available! We encourage you to reach out to the professionals at Oasis Recovery to learn more about our personalized treatment programs and mental health services. Oasis Recovery was founded from firsthand experience of addiction and recovery, with a mission of providing a space where people can heal from addiction in a compassionate, creative, open-minded, and heart-centered environment. We believe recovery is always possible. Our experts work with you to design a treatment plan that fits your needs. Common treatment programs include:

• Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
• Full-time Addiction Treatment on campus
• Aftercare Services

Contact us today for more information about how our programs and services can help you get your life back on track. You no longer have to struggle with this on your own. We are here to help.