Alcohol recovery has been accomplished by a variety of methods, ranging from counseling, meditation, medication and the traditional 12-Step plans. However, many other forms of therapy exist, including therapeutic drumming, which may provide the motivation some alcoholics need to get on the path to recovery.

Drumming is an ancient practice, but research shows it may also boost concentration, immunity and feelings of peace. It can trigger a release of tension and give a sense of group-belonging when performed with others, counteracting the desire of many alcoholics to remain in isolation.

The practice also encourages a sense of self and a connection to the current moment; it is also a way of expressing a person’s unique thoughts and feelings that isn’t harmful to others and doesn’t require talking.

Drumming has been used as therapy for children with autism, adolescents with behavioral problems, and even patients undergoing trauma recovery. The technique has also become part of inpatient and outpatient drug recovery centers, prisons, and community-based programs.

Among other benefits, participating in drumming may be an effective, calming activity to fill up the time alcoholics once spent drinking or gaining access to alcohol. Some say it also reduces cravings and creates a distraction from drinking.

Arizona State university professor Michael Winkelman, PhD, MPH, Department of Anthropology, summarized research conducted in 2001 and 2002 on drumming as a therapy tool. He noted that it helps create a sense of calm by encouraging the production of theta-waves in the brain, as well as helps synchronize brain-waves.

Drumming may also activate areas of the frontal lobe that can lead to new insight toward addiction-related problems. Winkelman also suggests drumming may be especially helpful in times of alcoholic relapse or when other types of therapy, like counseling, have not been effective.

A drumming session can begin with participants drumming on their own as a warm-up, then include a series of guided exercises. Group chanting can also be an option and the group may be encouraged to experience their feelings that emerge during drumming. Visualization can also be utilized, with an emphasis on releasing the feelings of guilt that come from an addiction.

Participants have reported a sense of group continuity toward recovery and feelings of release, resulting in benefits ranging from improved attitudes to better sleep. At the Sacramento Native American Health Center, only participants who are sober and have no drugs in their system may use the drums, a philosophy that group leaders say helps the program encourage addicts to remain accountable for their healing.

Music therapist and drug abuse counselor Ed Mikenas has also utilized drum therapy at a home for girls with substance abuse problems. He praises drum therapy for building young adults’ self-confidence and delivering new ways for reaching emotional health.

Other therapists report similar success with drumming and teens, especially for combating feelings of powerlessness and isolation during drug or alcohol recovery. The technique has also been used to combat gang violence and help participants improve school performance.

In summary, drum therapy helps provide a sense of calm, impacts participants on a psychological level with new awareness of their emotions, and provides a path to meeting addicts’ social needs. The therapy, though unconventional, may become an asset to traditional therapies for drug and alcohol recovery, both for teens and adults.