Can Travel Aid Addiction Recovery? Dr. Mark Leeds Weighs In
While moving alone to a new city without making any other life changes may not be the solution to quitting drugs and alcohol, going away for a while can be a positive experience.
Imagine hitting the road as part of your journey to sobriety. Dr. Mark Leeds, an osteopathic physician with a wealth of experience in addiction treatment, shares his thoughts on whether world travel can play a role in addiction recovery. While there's no scientific evidence to back up the idea, Dr. Leeds has seen promising outcomes in certain cases. He advises that early recovery travel should be carefully planned and supported by trusted companions.
For instance, traveling with family members who are sober can help create new, positive memories and focus on the present rather than past substance use. Another intriguing option Dr. Leeds discusses is recovery tours to fascinating destinations, where guided activities and group meetings can bolster individual recovery efforts. However, he stresses that travel should follow the establishment of a solid psychological and medical treatment plan.
It's crucial to get a health checkup and start appropriate care before embarking on any travel adventures. So, while moving to a new city alone may not be the magic solution to quitting drugs or alcohol, a well-planned trip can be a positive experience. It can help you reconnect with loved ones, create meaningful memories, and mark a significant milestone in your recovery journey.
Tune in to hear more about the potential benefits and challenges of incorporating travel into addiction recovery from Dr. Mark Leeds.