How Physical Activity Helps Hold Back Substance Abuse

Physical activity is a recognized method of treating substance abuse. There are so many advantages to physical activity, and helping hold back addiction and supporting substance abuse recovery are two main benefits.

Jackson House Recovery Centers offers two fitness classes a week, providing opportunities for individuals to engage in physical activity as part of their substance abuse treatment plans. 

Substance Abuse and Physical Activity

Substance abuse and physical activity both impact mental and physical health, but they do so in different ways.

Substance abuse

Substances change the way that neurons communicate in the brain, taking over an individual’s reward center and flooding it with dopamine. This changes brain chemistry, either by mimicking the production of natural neurotransmitters or forcing your brain to release too many. Over time, this cycle becomes viscous, and individuals are left depending on the substance to provide these positive feelings.

On the physical side of substance addiction, individuals could end up with severe heart problems, breathing problems, mental health conditions, strokes, sores, sleeplessness, and so much more, all of which can be extremely dangerous. 

Physical activity

Physical activity changes the brain by benefiting its structure and function. It does this through increased blood flow, growth of new neurons, and even through the release of mood-boosting chemicals, making individuals feel good. 

Also, physical activity leads to increased fitness levels and noticeable, positive changes. Recognized benefits of physical activity include improved strength through regular exercise and a reduction of stress. 

Physical Activity in Substance Abuse Recovery

Various types of physical activity can be beneficial to substance abuse recovery. Consider the following examples:

Aerobics

First, think about the benefits of aerobics.

Aerobics is a mild to moderate form of exercise, depending on how you engage and at what intensity. Aerobic activity helps your brain release good chemicals as your blood starts to pump through your body better. Individuals participating in aerobics align themselves with a workout, feeling better, and training their bodies to be stronger. This shows that an outside substance is not needed for someone to feel good.

Yoga

Yoga is another form of exercise that can help hold back substance abuse. Yoga is focused on stretching and controlling your breathing, helping you to calm your nervous system and your brain. Stress is a common trigger for substance use, and yoga is a recognized stress reliever.

Strength Training

Strength training also has benefits, including helping your cardiovascular health, which can be damaged due to prolonged, excessive substance abuse. Strength training is seen as a way to help individuals feel better overall, develop strength, and support the management of withdrawal symptoms. 

Recovery Benefits of Physical Activity

Other than helping you feel stronger and get fitter, how can physical activity actually benefit your recovery?

Regular exercise promotes better sleep, and better sleep supports brain function that may have been damaged by substance abuse.

Other benefits associated with physical activity include:

• Strengthened control of cravings
• Improved self-esteem
• Positive social connections
• An overall feeling of betterness

Physical Activity as Part of Our Treatment Programs

Jackson House Recovery Centers sees physical activity as an effective component of recovery treatment. Fitness classes offered twice per week are provided in support of both physical and mental wellness. These classes are offered to increase endorphin levels, lessen stress, and more.

“Gentle Strength and Stability” is a 45-minute class offered on Tuesdays. This class is led by an expert trainer and is meant for low-impact, high-energy exercise. Our “Strength and Stretch” class is on Thursdays. Also 45 minutes, this class features a warm-up section, a standing strength component, and time for exercise and stretches on a floor mat. 

Treatment For Various Types of Substance Abuse

Treatment for multiple types of substance abuse is available from Jackson House Recovery Centers. Opportunities for professionally guided exercise is used in combination with other approaches to treating substance abuse, such as therapy, detoxification services, and more.

We treat the following:

• Alcohol addiction: Used in many cases to deal with stress, alcohol is associated with multiple serious conditions, affecting mental, physical, and social health.
• Meth addiction: This substance can lead to addiction after just one use. Signs of addiction include mood swings, extreme weight loss, and paranoia.
• Fentanyl addiction: Fentanyl can cause muscle pain, loss of strength, and death.
• Heroin addiction: Heroin is highly addictive. Associated symptoms include anxiety, depression, impaired memory, muscle spasms, and stroke.
• Cocaine addiction: An addiction to cocaine can lead to a heart attack, seizures, damaged lungs, bowel decay, and lasting mood alteration. 
• Opioid addiction: Heroin, fentanyl, and certain pain relievers all fit into the opioid category. Opioid addiction increases the risk of a heart attack and the chance of mental health problems.
• Prescription drug addiction: Dramatic swings in mood, sudden-onset anxiety or depression, and sleeping issues are prescription drug addiction signs.
• Dual diagnosis: Also known as a co-occurring condition, dual diagnosis is present as someone struggles with a mental illness alongside a substance addiction.

Contact Us for Substance Abuse Treatment 

We use various methods to treat substance abuse, including physical activity, working to ensure individuals get effective care. Our dedication to providing care and support is reflected in personalized and professional substance abuse treatment. We give particular attention to the benefits of community, customization, and nutrition.

Get in touch with us today to find out more about our substance abuse programs in San Diego. Our team can discuss treatment options, speak to you about the admissions process, and offer you support on your journey to recovery.