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Art Therapy As a Treatment for Drug Addiction

When drug addicts seek help for their addictions, they may not be able to effectively communicate to counselors or therapists why they became addicts, although it is likely there is a key psychological factor buried inside. They may not know why they take drugs, or they may not want to talk about it even when they want help. Art therapy is a mental health profession that helps with the nonverbal exploration of these feelings.

  1. How it Works

    • When people with drug addictions take part in art therapy, they are utilizing feelings and memories they may or may not be aware they have in order to draw, paint, sculpt or otherwise create art projects. These pieces of art, when analyzed by a therapist, may reveal an addict's thought process or obsessions; the therapist can then better address the issues that may have caused the patient to turn to drugs in the first place.

    Finding a Program

    • The Art Therapy Credentials Board can help you find a qualified therapist (see Resources). Choose several therapists in your area then interview them over the phone to find out which one may be right for you. Tell them what you are seeking help from and ask them about their qualifications in your area of concern.

    Home Activities

    • Art therapy is meant to be a springboard for analysis; however, this does not necessarily mean you need a therapist to benefit from this kind of therapy. Recovering addicts can use art projects to channel emotions---and create healthy distractions---when recovery becomes a struggle. Art can become a source of meditation to keep your mind clear and refocus self-destructive impulses into something more positive. Collage art may be a good place to start if you lack art supplies or painting skills. If you feel comfortable showing your projects to a trusted friend or sponsor, attempting to explain why you chose certain images may help you gain insight into your thought process during tough times.

    Effectiveness

    • Studies on art therapy for various purposes may be found in the Art Therapy Journal (see References), including a study on substance abuse and how therapeutic art-making can help with recovery and maintained sobriety. However, this journal is a publication of the AATA and it must be considered that the journal is published and evaluated by those in the art therapy profession who strongly believe in the subject matter.

      While there is a good chance that art therapy is effective for this and many other issues, it cannot currently be considered evidence-based mental health treatment.

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