We are living through one of the most politically charged periods in recent history. For individuals in substance use treatment or recovery, this political environment can add layers of stress to an already overwhelming process. As treatment professionals, our job is to create a space where clients can stay focused on their recovery while also expressing emotions about what’s happening in society.
This article provides practical strategies to help clients manage political stress without derailing their recovery, ensuring they remain engaged in treatment and protected from emotional overload.
1. Structure Sessions to Maintain Focus
Having a clear agenda and structure for each group session helps clients feel grounded, especially during uncertain times. Research shows that predictable routines in group therapy foster trust and stability, keeping discussions focused and productive (SAMHSA, 2022).
Tip:
• Start each session with a check-in and gentle grounding exercise to help clients stay present.
• Flexibility is important, but make sure discussions circle back to recovery goals rather than lingering on political or societal issues.
2. Set Healthy Boundaries Around News and Media Consumption
For individuals in recovery, constant exposure to news and social media can heighten anxiety and fuel emotional triggers. Helping clients create boundaries around media consumption is essential for protecting their mental health.
Tip:
• Recommend limiting media consumption to 30 minutes a day and suggest avoiding news at the start or end of the day to prevent stress from disrupting sleep or mood.
• Encourage clients to focus on reliable news sources and avoid excessive scrolling on social media, which can increase emotional fatigue.
Research shows that intentional consumption of media (with limits) helps reduce anxiety, improves focus, and enhances emotional well-being during recovery (JAMA, 2022).
3. Use Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques
The overwhelming nature of societal events can trigger strong emotions, especially for those in recovery. Integrating mindfulness practices into therapy sessions can help clients manage anxiety and remain focused on recovery goals. Mindfulness practices have been shown to reduce substance use cravings and improve emotional regulation (JAMA, 2022).
Tip:
• Begin or end sessions with a 5-minute breathing exercise or body scan to help clients release tension.
• Encourage clients to build a personal mindfulness routine to manage stress outside of sessions.
4. Foster Empathy and Inclusive Discussions
Group sessions are valuable spaces for clients to process emotions, but divisive political topics can sometimes cause tension. Setting boundaries for discussions helps ensure everyone feels heard and respected.
Tip:
• Use empathy-focused techniques to guide discussions. Redirect conversations toward how current events impact personal well-being and recovery.
• Establish clear group norms about respecting diverse perspectives and redirect the group back to recovery goals when needed.
Research suggests that group cohesion and trust are enhanced when participants feel emotionally safe and respected (SAMHSA, 2022).
5. Help Clients Build Resilience and Focus on Control
Clients in recovery often feel overwhelmed by external events. Building resilience through problem-solving skills and self-awareness can help them remain grounded. Encourage clients to focus on areas within their control- such as attending therapy, practicing mindfulness, and engaging with supportive communities.
Tip:
• Work with clients to identify their personal sources of strength and resilience.
• Reinforce that self-care is an essential part of recovery, especially during stressful times.
Conclusion: Staying on Track During Stressful Times
Supporting clients through recovery while navigating political and societal stress is no small task. As treatment professionals, we can create structured, safe, and therapeutic spaces for clients to express their feelings without derailing their progress. By integrating mindfulness, setting media boundaries, and fostering empathy, we help clients stay engaged and resilient in their recovery journey.
Even in times of division and uncertainty, our focus remains the same: keeping clients on track, helping them build resilience, and guiding them toward healing.
For further insights into creating safe therapeutic environments, see SAMHSA’s group therapy recommendations and recent studies on managing emotional stress during recovery (SAMHSA, 2022; Sobell & Sobell, 2011).
References
• SAMHSA, “Group Therapy in Substance Use Treatment.” Retrieved from SAMHSA.gov .
• JAMA Network, “Mindfulness and Emotional Regulation for Substance Use.” Retrieved from JAMA. •Sobell, L. C., & Sobell, M. B. (2011). Group therapy for substance use disorders: A motivational cognitive-behavioral approach. Guilford Press.
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