It is no secret that substance abuse can impact the brain severely. The brain stem, cerebral cortex and the limbic system, among other parts of the brain, are particularly affected. A severe consequence of alcohol misuse can be Korsakoff’s Syndrome, a term indicating alcohol induced dementia. This is one of the reasons why, along with evidence based psychotherapy practices, AToN encourages a holistic approach to nourish the brain and promote PsychoNeuroPlasticity.
PsychoNeuroPlasticity is a term that references how the brain has the ability to heal itself under particular circumstances. According to experts, the brain requires 30-90 days of abstinence in order to attain a “clean” brain. In order to promote this healing process, multiple factors are implemented under AToN’s trained medical and clinical team:
- Abstinence – it bears repeating as abstinence decreases brain inflammation
- Highly nutritious meals –including high protein, healthy fats and green, leafy vegetables – AND avoiding neurotoxins such as MSG, aspartame and sugar
- Supervised exercise (improved balance can stimulate PsychoNeuroPlasticity)
- Hydration
- Learning how to sleep naturally (AToN does not allow high risk sleep medications)
- Structure! The brain craves structure when it is learning a new lifestyle such as addiction recovery
- Mind/Body regulation, including relaxation, meditation, hypnotherapy and yoga
- Building new neurological circuits – AToN focuses on coping skill building which assists in stimulating brain function and healing
These are just a few of the aspects of AToN’s curriculum that benefit our residents. If you or a loved one could benefit from treatment, please contact us!
Cassandra Cannon, Ph.D.
Clinical Director
AToN Center 888-535-1516
