Over time, we have developed different methods for treating mental illnesses, and this helped so many people because each person has a unique way of learning, of coping, and of expressing themselves. Psychodrama therapy has been known to help people improve their relationships and communication skills, overcome grief and loss, restore confidence and well-being, enhancing learning and life skills, and more. Psychodrama therapy can assist in a variety of issues, such as eating disorders, autism, trauma, addiction, attachment concerns, and more.
Psychodrama therapy can assist people with anxiety by increasing their spontaneity – the more a person can act out distinct roles and take on different approaches, the more they can reduce their anxiety levels. However, because spontaneity and anxiety are opposing forces, the less spontaneity used, the higher the anxiety levels can rise. How does psychodrama therapy work?
According to the American Society of Group Psychotherapy and Psychodrama, psychodrama “employs guided dramatic action to examine problems or issues raised by an individual or a group. It clarifies issues, increases physical and emotional wellbeing, enhances learning and developing new skills.” There are 5 basic elements of psychodrama: 1) the protagonist, which is the person selected to represent the “theme”, 2) the auxiliary egos, which are group members who take on the roles of significant individuals from the event, 3) the audience, which are group members who witness the drama, 4) the stage, which is the physical space in which the drama takes place, and 5) the director, which is the psycho-dramatist who guides participants throughout the phases of the drama.
A 2016 study conducted by a researcher in Italy examine the benefits of psychodrama therapy on students with mathematics anxiety, and found that it significantly decreased their anxiety surrounding the subject. Participants took part in 10 group sessions each of 90 minutes that were held weekly over a period of 3 months. Psychodrama proved beneficial in helping the students with elevated levels of anxiety before taking a test, assistance with their memory, improved self-esteem and motivation to learn mathematics. Psychodrama doesn’t just help students, however. Studies have shown that psychodrama therapy can help adults with anxiety surrounding a situation because it allows them to act out scenarios or replay a situation that once caused them distress. In doing this, they can better express themselves and understand the situation from others’ point of view.
Avalon Malibu is a world-renowned, California state-licensed mental health and substance abuse recovery treatment center. Our licensed, experienced health care team truly cares about your recovery and will work with you to develop tools to overcome your challenges and better manage your symptoms. Make the decision to seek help today, and call us at 888-958-7511 for a consultation.
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