Group therapy in recovery isn’t always easy. It can be difficult sometimes to break the ice and encourage open discussion within a group, particularly if it’s new. For many, games can help a group overcome that initial awkwardness. When you provide a space where adults in treatment can be themselves and talk freely without judgment, you’re giving them an invaluable tool for recovery. The ability to put names on the feelings and share those feelings with others in the same situation is powerful. Games for recovery groups are extremely helpful in substance abuse treatment for that reason.
At Oceanfront Recovery, we believe that the road to sobriety looks a little bit different for everyone. Our job is to make sure that your treatment plan is customized to your individual needs, and group therapy is something that helps people from all walks of life. Making connections is an essential part of recovery, and social skills can be built without the crutch of substance abuse. For more information about any of our treatment plans, call us today at 877.296.7477.
5 Recovery Games for Groups
1. Gratitude Graphs
Each person draws a four-by-four graph on a sheet of paper. In the top left, draw or write something found in nature you’re grateful for. In the top right, draw or write a person or people you are grateful for. In the bottom left, draw or write a place you are grateful for. In the bottom right, draw or write anything else you feel gratitude for.
2. Popsicle Sticks
Write prompts for discussion on a collection of popsicle sticks. The discussion prompts can be related to positive habits, gratitude, the recovery process, or any other general group therapy questions. Have your group go around in a circle and draw sticks. For an added step, have the person answer a prompt and pass the prompt to a second person for an additional response or positive discussion.
3. Crafting
There are plenty of instruction sets online for easy crafts that can be fun and encourage positive growth. Stress balls are easy to make with balloons and flour. Glowing slime jars can also be fun to make with a group. These crafts can offer a safe space for free discussion.
4. Masks
With a package of cheap, simple Halloween masks, or even masks cut from construction paper, you can offer a great activity to foster deep conversation. Have each person write adjectives on the outside of the mask that pertain to how they believe they’re perceived. On the inside, have them write adjectives about how they really are. They may be surprised to see how others react to some adjectives on the outside of their masks – maybe their opinions on how others see them are skewed.
5. The Chocolate Chip
This game is great for mindfulness and can be done with a chocolate chip or any other small food item. Have each person hold the chocolate chip in their hands and go through their senses as a group. Have them hold it in their hand and consider how it feels and its weight, and then see it and analyze it with their eyes, then smell it, and so on. Once you get to taste, they can eat it and find the intention to swallow.
Group Therapy at Oceanfront Recovery
Group therapy is a vital part of what we do at Oceanfront Recovery in beautiful Laguna Beach. Our focus on your mental wellness will give you the fortitude needed to achieve sobriety, and the sober connections you make while in recovery will give you the camaraderie needed to make it last. When you work with Oceanfront, you give yourself the tools for success. If you have any questions about what we can do for you or your loved one, reach out today by calling 877.296.7477 to speak to an admissions specialist.
