Members will share the jar with the group and explain the significance of the items. Have group members visualize what their lives would look like if they could https://ecosoberhouse.com/ let go of what was holding them back or what they were holding onto. After doing the visualization individually, have group members share about the experience.

Participants in substance abuse groups may have histories of trauma that can be triggered during discussions. Facilitators should be prepared to manage potential crises by having trauma-informed strategies in place. Equipping participants with robust coping mechanisms is a vital aspect of relapse prevention. These activities teach individuals how to manage stress, anxiety, and negative emotions without substance use.

Positive Psychology Activities for Improving Mental Health

These activities provide a structured and enjoyable approach to therapy sessions, making them more accessible and encouraging active participation. Relapse rates for drug and alcohol use are comparable to those of other chronic diseases, group activities for adults with substance abuse such as hypertension and diabetes. It is estimated that approximately 40 to 60 percent of individuals experience relapse during their recovery journey. This statistic highlights the persistent nature of addiction as a chronic condition.

  • Read our article that addresses how to apply ACT therapy in group settings.
  • Maintaining motivation for sobriety is pivotal in the journey of recovery.

Skillful facilitators must create a nonjudgmental space where participants can openly express their doubts and concerns. Balancing empathy with gentle encouragement helps participants explore their ambivalence and find their intrinsic motivations for change. Practicing refusal skills through role-playing is a dynamic way to prepare participants for real-world situations where they might be tempted to use substances. By simulating scenarios involving peer pressure or social settings, participants can practice assertively declining offers of drugs or alcohol. These activities build confidence, enhance communication skills, and empower individuals to prioritize their recovery goals.

Gratitude Lists

These substance abuse group activities often involve having each member share their name, a brief personal background, and their reasons for joining the group. This helps members get to know one another and sets the stage for open and honest communication from the outset. We are dedicated to transforming the despair of addiction into a purposeful life of confidence, self-respect and happiness. We want to give recovering addicts the tools to return to the outside world completely substance-free and successful.

group activities for adults with substance abuse

The next player repeats the pattern and adds something new, and the process continues until the individuals before them don’t repeat the pattern. The player who loses must try to distract the other players as they construct and pass on a new beat. The goal is to keep your attention focused on the rhythm and avoid being distracted by anything or anyone. These can all be great opportunities to deepen the practice of coming back to breath after being pulled away. Group meditation may be guided by someone, or it may just be a group of individuals who gather to silently meditate together. Determine the duration of the meditation, and when finished, you all may decide to share your experience or takeaways.

Mindful Music Therapy

TherapyPatron.com helps mental health professionals better serve their clients. Our (editable, fillable, printable PDF) therapy worksheets can help you streamline your practice, effectively deliver different types of therapy, and help your clients be their best selves. The ideas and activities for substance abuse group therapy that are used will have an impact on the benefits that our clients have. Most people getting treatment for substance use disorder benefit from using both group and individual therapy.