Symbol of my Disease oil clay sculpture by “M” inpatient for alcoholism
Several things happen when an alcoholic begins to grapple with the reality of his/her diagnosis. Most people need some time to assimilate all the implications. Some individuals are helped by the knowledge that alcoholism is a DISEASE; it is not weakness of character or evidence of innate badness. This can be a huge relief. The disease concept also lays the groundwork for the idea that the disease itself is separate from the person, not one- in-the-same. Art therapy can help drive this point home.
In the assignment illustrated above, a man was directed to make an oil clay symbol of his disease – something, anything that is not him. Some patients have already thought of a symbol for their disease – a devil on the shoulder whispering constant criticism, a fire-breathing dragon, a hot pink spiral. For other patients, symbolizing with clay makes it clear that alcoholism is its own entity – not a self-portrait. It helps put some distance between the patient and the disease.
The symbol above is very descriptive and depicts a theme found in the artwork of many alcoholics, addicts and even people with eating disorders. M. described it as “All mixed up with a big black hole.” Many alcoholics, addicts and ED patients attempt to fill this perceived hole – with food, beer, money, sex, drugs, work – with anything that looks like it might fit. With a complete lack of discernment for whether what they are “using” is good for them or not! Recovery means facing the emptiness and becoming aware of what does and does not “fill the hole”. This kind of discernment and following the directions – like treatment, working the Twelve Steps, meeting with sponsors and sometimes, extended therapy – assist in turning a “hole” into a “whole”.
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