Why Is Physical Health Important In Recovery?

More than 48 million Americans age 12 and older had a substance use disorder in 2023, according to SAMHSA, but fewer than 10% received treatment.

As recovery programs continue to evolve, many are incorporating physical wellness into treatment plans and recognizing the role that exercise plays in supporting long-term recovery.

To help combat this, more recovery programs are incorporating overall wellness services into their treatment plans, including mindfulness practices like meditation, physical activities like yoga and strength training, and nutritional support.

The benefits of exercise are well-documented for people with mental health disorders, including alcohol and substance use disorders.

Can Physical Health Impact Addiction Treatment?

Many people who enter a rehab center have been neglecting their physical health due to addiction, especially if they face co-occurring mental health disorders.

Drug and alcohol addiction can wreak havoc on the body, leading to problems like liver disease, brain damage, strokes, lung disease, or seizures.

Rebuilding physical health is an essential part of the recovery process, and many treatment programs have gyms on-site or offer aerobics classes, hiking, yoga, or other exercise options.

Research has found that exercising has direct health benefits during recovery. It helps reduce drug cravings, create structure, and combat boredom and stress that may lead to relapse.

Drug or alcohol detox is often challenging, and exercise may be able to help ease the worst lingering withdrawal symptoms while improving mood.

Healthy Habits For The Mind And Body

There are many ways that physical health can affect mental wellness. People with healthy habits report benefits including reduced stress, improved confidence, and more stable moods.

Healthy diets and exercise are not the only ways to improve physical health. Healthy habits also include drinking plenty of water, getting enough sleep each night, and more.

It’s not necessary to completely change your diet or lifestyle habits overnight. Incorporating small changes gradually is a good way to stick to any new behaviors.

Exercise

Physical exercise can have a drastic impact on your overall health and well-being. Even just walking for 30 minutes a day can lead to changes in your fitness levels and quality of life.

Some of the positive effects of regular exercise include:

• weight loss
• lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, dementia, or arthritis
• improved mood, self-confidence, and self-esteem
• increased energy levels
• better sleep quality
• increased agility
• improved brain functioning and memory
• creativity boosts

People who exercise regularly also report fewer symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders, and ADHD due to the boost in “feel-good” endorphins like serotonin and dopamine.

Eating Well

Exercise isn’t the only way to take care of your physical health. Following a healthy diet with plenty of protein, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can also have a major impact.

Getting proper nutrition can boost your immune system, strengthen bones and muscles, lower disease risks, and benefit your skin, teeth, hair, and nails.

Additionally, a healthy diet improves cognition and focus while also resulting in fewer mood swings or bouts of depression.

For people in recovery, nutrition takes on an added importance. Long-term substance use can deplete key nutrients, including B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc, that support brain function and mood regulation.

Rebuilding these nutritional deficiencies through a balanced diet, and in some cases supplementation under medical guidance, can support both physical healing and emotional stability during recovery.

How To Incorporate Exercise Into Your Recovery

There are countless different ways to exercise, and you may need to try a few different methods before you find one that you enjoy.

If you’re in the early stages of recovery or still completing detox, check with your treatment team before starting any new exercise routine. Some withdrawal symptoms, including elevated heart rate, dehydration, and fatigue, can make intense physical activity risky in the short term. Medical staff can help you identify the right time and intensity to begin.

Once you do, it’s important to stick with it to see the physical benefits. Starting with as little as 30 minutes a day, five times a week, is a good approach.

You can begin with gentle exercises like swimming, yoga, or walking, and work your way up to more intensive activities such as weight training or biking.

Other physical fitness activities include hiking, martial arts, or team sports like soccer and basketball. Team sports have the added benefit of providing opportunities for new social connections.

Are Some Exercises Better Than Others During Substance Use Disorder Treatment?

As long as you are moving your body, it doesn’t matter what type of exercise you choose. However, it’s important to stick with other parts of treatment, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

If you’re not sure where to start, most treatment centers have medical professionals who can help. They can evaluate your physical health and recommend exercise routines for your specific needs.

More holistic exercises, like yoga or gardening, often have additional benefits during addiction treatment. They can help you feel better physically, emotionally, or even spiritually.

Be gentle with yourself as you start a new routine. Don’t overexert yourself or try to start too many new exercises at once. By gradually building a healthy lifestyle, you’ll have more success.

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Written by the Addiction Resource Editorial Staff