Introduction

Complementary and integrative health (CIH) practices can improve chances of recovery from substance use disorders (SUDs), especially when used in addition to traditional treatment and mutual self-help group participation. They are not meant to replace traditional treatments, however. Evidence-based traditional treatments are important for the development and maintenance of a solid recovery foundation, and often include treating co-occurring physical or mental health conditions, improving relapse prevention and inter- and intra-personal skills, and rebuilding the areas of one’s life that have been affected by substance use. Complementary practices provide additional tools that can enhance various aspects of the patient’s recovery; many patients find CIH practices a helpful and enjoyable part of their recovery.

CIH practices include a variety of techniques administered or taught by a trained instructor.¹ Specific practices include acupuncture, meditation, massage therapy, deep breathing, meditation (e.g., mindful-awareness or transcendental), Guided Imagery, movement therapies, relaxation techniques, tai chi, qi gong, yoga, and hypnotherapy to name a few.¹ For more information, check out “Introduction to Complementary Integrative Health Approaches,” Chapter 14 of the Passport to Whole Health.

The complementary approaches listed below are sometimes classified as mind-body practices, but may also be classified in other ways (e.g., yoga is sometimes classified as a movement-based therapy, and energy medicine approaches are sometimes placed in a category of their own). Many of these practices have been linked to improvements in general physical and mental health and well-being, the ability to better cope with daily challenges and stressors, and the enhancement of the healing process in substance use disorders. They can be effective methods for improving self-care, which is vital to recovery.