The Use of Creative Writing Interventions in Substance Abuse Treatment

Authors

  • Brandon Snead Temple University
  • Debra Pakstis Temple Univeristy
  • Breonna Evans Temple University
  • Rhonda Nelson Temple University

Keywords:

addictions, creative writing, journaling, poetry, self-expression, substance abuse

Abstract

A variety of creative writing activities have been used as treatment inteventions for adolescents and adults with substance abuse issues.  This brief literature review describes different interventions and summarizes positive outcomes related to improvements in anxiety,coping, depression, physial health, self-esteem, self-awareness and social skills. Programs foucsing on treatment and prevention are included, and individual and group interventions are discussed.

 

Author Biographies

Brandon Snead, Temple University

Brandon Snead is a recreation therapist at the Temple University Collaborative on Community Inclusion and a graduate student in the Recreation Therapy program at Temple University.  

Debra Pakstis, Temple Univeristy

Debra Pakstis is a recreation therapist at Temple University Hospital -Episcopal Campus and Friends Hospital. She is also a graduate student in the Recreation Therapy program at Temple University.

Breonna Evans, Temple University

Breonna Evans is a graduate student in the Recreation Therapy program at Temple University.

Rhonda Nelson, Temple University

Rhonda Nelson is an associate professor in the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at Temple University,

Published

2015-05-11

Issue

Section

Student Research