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Music Therapy for Addiction Recovery

Music Therapy for Addiction Recovery - drumming group - great oaks recovery centerMusic therapy for addiction recovery has produced positive benefits.

Many studies show the positive effects of music on our ability to learn and retain knowledge. Baroque music, like that composed by Bach or Handel, affects brain waves for concentration. Vocabulary and memorization are enhanced greatly by these music stimuli. More energetic classical music helps with alertness.

We know that music can affect the brain, but how can music therapy be used for addiction recovery?

Some studies suggest the positive impact drumming can have on addiction recovery. Drumming has been used for centuries as a part of spiritual ritual. It has been a way for people to open themselves up to emotional release, connecting with themselves as well as others. It produces a relaxation in brain wave synchronization. Drumming has been successful with those who tend to relapse.

There have been further studies about the emotional impact of music therapy on those in addiction recovery. Avoidance of emotional scarring is common among addicted individuals. Rather than dealing with the pent-up feelings of the past, addicted individuals choose substance abuse as the path of least resistance. Music has been shown to open up the emotions in a positive and non-threatening way. Music therapy has allowed people in recovery to delve into those places left in the dark recesses of the mind. Dealing with emotional hurt and pain is unpleasant, but it can open up the doors to other things undiscovered. Music therapy for addiction recovery has proven to be successful in cognitive behavioral therapy.

If you or someone you love is in need of alcohol or drug treatment, contact us anytime at (877) 977-3268. We are here to help.

References:
Baker, F. A., Gleadhill, L. M., & Dingle, G. A. (2007). Music therapy and emotional exploration: Exposing substance abuse clients to the experiences of non-drug-induced emotions. The Arts in Psychotherapy, 34(4), 321-330. doi:10.1016/j.aip.2007.04.005

Winkelman, M. (2003). Complementary Therapy for Addiction: “Drumming Out Drugs”. American Journal of Public Health, 93(4), 647-651. doi:10.2105/ajph.93.4.647

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