Prolonged substance abuse can significantly decrease self-esteem in individuals with substance use disorder (SUD). Newport Beach Recovery Center uses a variety of therapy methods, including adventure therapy, to help clients build self-esteem. Adventure therapy provides a controlled environment where you can build trust in yourself and your abilities. Improving self-esteem by overcoming obstacles and achieving realistic goals increases self-efficacy. In addition, challenging yourself to try new experiences will give you the confidence to establish and maintain healthy routines.

What Is Adventure Therapy? 

Adventure therapy, sometimes called nature or ecotherapy, usually involves group activities in an outdoor setting. In adventure therapy, clients can become more attuned to the way their choices and problems impact themselves and others. The collaborative activities may help you realize that you need change. Group activities provide an opportunity for you to practice conflict resolution and problem-solving. Most outdoor therapy sessions involve guided activities that require clients to practice essential life skills like establishing social boundaries, active listening, and nonverbal communication.

Adventure therapy introduces aspects of group therapy into real-world scenarios. In addition, the controlled environment and activities allow you to make deeper connections with your peers. Some everyday activities used in adventure therapy include: 

• Horseback riding 
• Biking 
• Hiking 
• Boating 
• Rock climbing 
• Camping 

A trained therapist can incorporate almost any outdoor group activity into adventure therapy. However, goal-oriented activities often have the best outcome because they force peers to rely on each other for support. Newport Beach Recovery Center uses outdoor group therapy to provide a change of scenery while supporting healthy social engagement. We understand the importance of practicing the skills you learn in therapy. The adventure scenarios allow you to overcome challenges similar to the ones you will face during your ongoing recovery. 

Adventure Therapy and Increasing Self-Esteem

Many people with SUD struggle with low self-esteem. They might feel uncertain about their ability to overcome obstacles they may encounter during treatment and recovery. Adventure therapy is an excellent way to develop motivation, self-efficacy, and positive self-esteem.

You can build social skills and confidence by trusting your peers and the care team. Adventure therapy encourages healing in these ways: 

• Giving you an opportunity to help others succeed 
• Allowing you to become a valued member of a community 
• Showing you the importance of motivation
• Empowering you to continue making progress in your healing

Adventure therapy uses fun group activities to help you grow as a person and increase your sense of self-worth. Outdoor activities provide a low-stress and structured environment to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable while challenging themselves to try new things. Newport Beach offers a range of outdoor and group activities you can enjoy while practicing essential coping skills.

What to Expect From Adventure Therapy

Different groups have different needs. At Newport Beach Recovery Center, we tailor each adventure activity to meet the needs of specific groups. The care team will prepare you for what to expect from each activity before you leave the facility. We’ll explain what to expect and the long-term goals of each outing.

No one is required to participate in adventure therapy. However, we believe that it benefits everyone who chooses to take part. If you feel uncomfortable or need special accommodations, we have the resources to ensure you feel safe and secure during each session. Adventure therapy allows you to do the following during activities:

• Work together with others to achieve group goals
• Practice establishing and communicating personal boundaries
• Engage with your peers and the care team
• Listen actively and respond to the thoughts of others

Most activities involve a series of realistic goals that encourage a sense of community. Building strong social bonds with your peers will help you feel more comfortable trusting them with different aspects of your recovery when you return to the facility. Connecting with others can significantly improve your self-esteem, and it’ll offer you a sober support system.

Peer Engagement and Group Support 

The primary goal of adventure therapy is to ensure individuals in recovery develop basic interpersonal skills. During adventure therapy, peers work together to reach a specific goal. We encourage peers to engage with others during the activity instead of trying to solve problems independently. Everyone has unique strengths they can bring to the table and share with others in the group.

Health Benefits of Increased Self-Esteem 

Positive self-esteem can make you feel more comfortable trying new things and making necessary life changes. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), “[H]ealthy self-esteem is important” to mental and physical health. The physical and mental benefits of positive self-esteem include: 

• Healthier relationships 
• Increased self-confidence and self-efficacy
• Reduced antisocial behaviors 
• Less workplace or academic stress 
• Decreased anxiety 
• Reduced risk of emotional or physical relapse 

If you feel confident about overcoming challenges, you will have an easier time coping with stressors during recovery. Adventure therapy at Newport Beach Recovery Center can provide the tools you need to succeed in long-term sobriety. 

Treatment for substance abuse involves learning essential coping skills to increase your self-esteem and help you establish healthy behaviors. Adventure therapy is one of the tools used at Newport Beach Recovery Center to encourage healthy social interactions between peers. Adventure therapy uses everyday outdoor activities to promote better communication, positive relationships, and conflict resolution. You can have fun with peers while increasing your self-esteem and learning how to cope with unexpected real-world stressors. Adventure therapy is highly structured and offers you a safe space to heal and grow. To learn more about the traditional and holistic therapies offered at Newport Beach Recovery Center, call our office today at (855) 316-8740.