Therapeutic Recreation

Therapeutic recreation is a way for people with addictions and other mental health concerns to cope with stress and have fun in recovery. With a particular focus on leisure activities, therapeutic recreation (or recreational therapy) gives participants a chance to explore physical activity, games and the arts.

Therapeutic Recreation Supports the Whole Person

Therapeutic recreation supports mental health by introducing new interests and activities. For people who are part of an inpatient recovery program, therapeutic recreation is a welcome break from the tough work of recovery.

Therapeutic recreation also models healthy use of leisure time. For example, someone in a substance abuse treatment program may have previously spent all of their free time focused on getting and using drugs. Once in recovery, new hobbies and interests can fill the hole drugs or alcohol used to fill.

Many recreational therapies also promote physical health, making this an ideal way to support whole-body healing.

Additional Benefits of Therapeutic Recreation

In addition to being fun, therapeutic recreation offers the following benefits:

• Increased independence
• Stronger self-esteem
• Greater motivation
• Improved mental and emotional well-being
• Better quality of life
• Reduced isolation as a result of greater community involvement
• Reduced stress and anxiety

Who Benefits Most From Therapeutic Recreation?

Therapeutic recreation is beneficial for people with a wide variety of mental health issues including addictions, depression, anxiety and trauma. It is often provided in an inpatient treatment setting. At Elements Behavioral Health, recreational therapy is often incorporated into treatment to help clients manage stress, commit to treatment and build a social support network.

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