Recreational Therapy
Recreational therapy uses games, movement, art, time in nature, and other positive activities to relieve mental suffering and aid the recovery process.
Using Play to Heal Body and Mind
Recreational therapy can be done one on one, or in group settings, and is meant as a more organic way to approach treatment. It gets you outside, and doing activities designed to harmonize the mind and body.
Some of the activities that are part of our program at Sequoia Behavioral Health include:
- Hiking
- Painting
- Yoga
Being active with a group of peers helps our clients feel safe and more willing to be more open minded in the treatment process.
Benefits of Recreational Therapy
There is a reason we take gym and art classes in school—playing is good for us! Even as adults, exercise and creative activities have benefits that carry through our entire lives. Recreational therapy is usually done in a group setting, but can be done in many different ways that each have their own benefits for your mental and physical health.
IT IMPROVES MENTAL HEALTH SYMPTOMS
Not only does evidence point to exercise improving mood, but many forms of recreation therapy helps with self-esteem and create a sense of calm.
IT BUILDS HEALTHY COMMUNITY
Social bonds are important for humans to thrive, though they can be difficult to create and maintain. Activities in recreational therapy are done in groups, creating these connections and a positive community.
IT BOOSTS COGNITIVE FUNCTION
Most of the activities in recreational therapy require some creativity and a new perspective. Keeping your brain and body active improves the health of both.
IT REPLACES NEGATIVE HABITS
Destructive behaviors, including substance use, are often coping mechanisms for deeper mental health issues. Recreational therapy offers healthy ways to cope, and treatment of symptoms outside of conventional therapy settings.
Recreational Therapy for Post-Traumatic Disorders
Coping with trauma can take its toll. Mental health disorders, substance abuse, even physical pain can stem from untreated trauma. We take a trauma-focused approach to treatment because we know trauma is behind so much suffering. Balancing recreational therapy with other conventional approaches can heal an individual from all angles.
Balancing Recreation and Clinical Treatment at Sequoia
Recreational therapy is just one step in holistic treatment. Not only does it help treat symptoms of mental health disorders and trauma, it also provides a relaxing environment away from your normal setting. Varying programming and a balanced pace of life keeps a natural rhythm that makes you feel at ease. Life is not spent simply bouncing indoors from room to room, and we don’t think treatment should be either.
What We Treat
If you are struggling with your mental health, substance abuse, or both, we are here to help you regain control over your life. Our inpatient, outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs are designed to treat a wide variety of mental, behavioral, and co-occurring disorders in a comfortable setting.
Mental Health
We diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health disorders, including trauma effects, dual diagnosis, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and codependency.
Addiction
Substance use disorders we treat include addiction to alcohol, opiates, fentanyl and prescription opioids, methamphetamine and other stimulants, benzodiazepines, cannabis, and other psychoactive substances.
Other Behavioral Health Concerns
A mental health crisis can be layered and confusing. If you don’t see your disorder listed—or don’t know exactly why you are struggling—reach out to us to see how we can help. We treat each client at Sequoia on a personal level, and we’re ready to help you overcome whatever you may be facing.
Ready to Start Your Healing Journey?
Our experienced, compassionate team is here for you. Reach out to us today by calling us or scheduling a conversation at a time that works for you. All information will be kept private and confidential.
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