You might not think that watching movies could have any real value, but a lot of counselors and therapists recommend certain films to their clients, or even show them in groups, as part of addiction treatment. For those who are in the early days, it might be best not to show anything too graphic, as it could serve as a trigger. Also, you never know who might end up being offended by more graphic content. However, sometimes a stark representation of just how far people can fall can serve as a bit of a kick in the pants to make someone realize the road they are headed down. If you’d rather avoid any possible discomfort, however, there are plenty of uplifting movies dealing with addiction as well.
Starting with the ones that hold nothing back, the following are some films about the harsh realities of addiction:
Requiem for a Dream. This psychological drama follows four different addicts as they fall victim to their demons. There are no happy endings here. One character develops psychosis as a result of her amphetamine use. Another starts trading sex for heroin. It doesn’t hold back showing the effects of withdrawal, either, and it’s enough to make anyone who’s never tried drugs too terrified to consider it.
Trainspotting. This is a black comedy about heroin use. One of the main characters nearly dies from an overdose, and when he later goes through withdrawal we experience his hallucinations. Another character contracts HIV as a result of his drug use and eventually dies from the disease.
On the more positive side of the spectrum, these movies have a somewhat more hopeful message:
Flight. Denzel Washington was nominated for an Oscar for his leading role in this film about a pilot suffering from addiction. He thinks he’s functioning just fine, until one day his plane has a mechanical malfunction and his drug and alcohol use are called into question. He faces the loss of his career and reputation, and he is eventually imprisoned. Eventually, however, he admits that he’s happy to be sober, and begins working to repair relationships with his family.
28 days. Sandra Bullock plays a character who drunkenly steals and crashes a car. She’s given the choice to either spend 28 days in jail or in a rehab center. She chooses rehab, and eventually she is able to break away from the people who have been bad influences in her life and realizes that recovery is possible.
The Betty Ford Story. This movie chronicles the struggles of the former First Lady and her secret addiction to alcohol and prescription drugs. She managed to overcome her addiction and found the Betty Ford Center, a nonprofit treatment facility for drug and alcohol abuse.
If you or a loved one need help with quitting drugs or alcohol, consider Asana Recovery. We offer medical detox, along with both residential and outpatient programs, and you’ll be supervised by a highly trained staff of medical professionals, counselors, and therapists. Call us any time at (949) 438-4504.
