Men and Substance Abuse Disorder - An Art Therapy Proposal Men and Substance Abuse Disorder - An Art Therapy Proposal INTRODUCTION GOOD AFTER NOON EVERYONE my name is peri Nolan-Trott Begin with a story – My research Proposal is geared to men with substance use disorders and Men and addiction and the need for a community based RT THERAPY Program. What I observed at MTC Also, I done a small research project on Art therapy ON Art therapy in Bermuda I found that there were about 3 licensed art therapist on island and one lived between Bermuda and the UK. Why did I tell you this story? Because it can give you some idea about the number of art therapist in Bermuda. Purpose Statement • The purpose of this research is to develop a framework for the development of a government funded community non-profit art therapy programme that will provide increased options for recovery to support men with Substance Use Disorders (SUD) in Bermuda. Justification According to the World Drug Report (2021), it is million people have used drugs, up by 22 per individuals with SUD can develop mental and physical health issues and may be at risk of suicide or suicidal ideation. They are also likely to become unemployed, experience homelessness, and become involved in criminal activities. While there are several treatment programs, there are gaps in community base services. estimated that globally “around 275 cent from 2010. By 2030, demographic factor project the number of people using drugs to rise s by 11 per cent around the world….” The rise in Substance Use Disorders is also on the increa se in Bermuda. Report from Bermuda Assessm ent and Referral Centre (BARC) have seen an inc rease of new person who access services in 202 1 creased by 33% over the previous year. (BerD IN (20 22, p.33). Terms Important to Know A RT THERAPY • Art therapy is a theopathic approach that promotes behavioral changes and healing through image making and can include, painting, drawing, sculpturing, music, narrative. SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS (SUDS) Continuous use of drug despite health challenges and disruption to everyday functioning These programs are based on peer support and a can be an effective resource for individual with Substance Use • Twelve-step programs/ peer group support Alcoholic Anonymous (AA) and Narcotic Disorder. The model is that people can help people to achieve and maintain sobriety by attending peer group meetings as often as possible. The belief in a Higher Power is • central theme. Literature Review Therapeutic modalities used with the treatment of substance abuse disorder (SUD) are presented. Research studies that inform this research are then explored. Cognitive Behavior therapy The aim of Cognitive Behaviour therapies is the reduction of Symptoms. CBT has been effective in the treatment of various mental health disorders including Substance Use Disorders. Cognitive Behavior Therapy is a shortterm therapeutic approach that deals with the ‘here and now.’ It attends to the problem at hand and does not necessarily focus on pass issues. CBT helps people to recognize negative thinking patterns, develop new skillsets, and better coping skills. It has proven to be beneficial for a wide population range Literature Review Cont.. • Trauma Theory • Trauma refers to any major threatening or life-threatening event. This includes a “one-time, multiple, or long-lasting repetitive events, and affects everyone differently.” Some individuals may clearly display criteria associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), that can affect an individual, a community, or a nation. • Trauma Treatment and Art therapy • Hu et al. (2021), after reviewing 413 literatures concluded that art therapy was appropriate to support individuals suffering from trauma. These findings suggest that art therapy is useful as therapeutic method to assist individuals to lead better lives. Schouten et al. (2019) also noted that “experiential character of art therapy appears to be an appropriate approach to the often wordless and visual nature of traumatic memories”, especially with individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder. Program proposal The development of a community-based art therapy project. This would provide a safe space for men, aged eighteen and over, who are in the process of recovery due to substance use disorder (SUD). The programme would be administered by a master’s level art therapist who has additional training in working with individuals dealing with SUD. It is hoped that this programme could be an additional resource in Bermuda. In Bermuda treatment for men with SUD is facilitated through services which include Bermuda Assessment and Referral Services, Turning Point (for detoxification and mental health support), and Men’s Treatment Centre, which are government funded. Other providers include the Salvation Army and Harbor Light drug programme, which are private agencies. In addition, many individuals with SUD’s also experience mental health issues. Stigmatization often stops individuals from obtaining treatment. Art Therapy and Substance Use Disordders Art therapy is an important treatment approach in working with addiction and has been extensively researched. Aletraris et al (2014), looked at Complementary and Alternative Medical (CAM) practices. In their studies of thirty-six treatment programs, art therapy and music therapy were integrated in their treatment programs. Their conclusions suggest that art therapy was beneficial for individuals with Substance Use Disorder. Art therapy helped in decreasing denial, supported to alcoholism treatment, and provided a means for communication. Program model • This model incorporates art therapy as a means of enhancing recovery in the community for men with SUD. The Recovery/Support Model is a peer-to-peer approach which helps people in gaining an understanding about their addiction. The Recovery/Support model is a less authoritative approach to recovery. This approach promotes self-efficacy to improve behaviors • It can further help individuals to understand the impact that their addiction may have on their families, friends, and their communities. Furthermore, it can assist with understanding how their situation can be addressed. Peer-led intervention can also reduce self-stigma and stigma pressure; it might improve an individuals’ chances for recovery Data on Information In Bermuda there appears to be limited data regarding resources for men with substance use disorders. Much of the information on substance use is highlighted in the BerDin Report. Data on information is compiled from provided from organization that support individuals with SUD’s. Limitation and funding There is limited research regarding the needs of men and addiction in Bermuda. There is relatively little information regarding art therapy as a community resource and the benefits of this supporting recovery. The yearly BerDin reports however, attempts to collect statistical data on addiction through organization that services individuals with addiction. Funding is obtained via the Bermuda Government and through private organizations. In looking at the research, there appears to be a need for funding for community art therapy intervention that support mental health and substance use disorders. It is likely that more activism and advocacy is required by individuals with substance used disorders that will promote their needs for community resources. What works and what doesn’t Work • In Bermuda I found it vey difficult to obtain statistics on individuals with substance use disorders. I visited several government departments and was referred to other departments. Most of the statistics for Bermuda was obtained through the BerDIN publication which collects data annually from stakeholders Future Research Further research can address the need of preventative care that encourages empowerment, the reduction of stigmatization of mental health and substance use disorders through community base art therapy programs.