The Spiritual Aspect In Recovery From Addiction
Addiction is now being seen as a disease that affects the body, spirit and mind of a person. It is no longer just a moral affliction that arouses shame. It is an illness that needs the efforts of not only the patient but support from his family and a strong support group to cure. It can never completely be eradicated but can be kept at bay through strict vigilance. Since this disease affects not only the body but all other aspects of life, then it is only logical that all of them have to be addressed during treatment for an effective recovery.
The spiritual recovery therapies provide the context to see how spirituality is related to the rehabilitation of addicts. The success of these programs proves that there is indeed a spiritual aspect in recovery that is quite effective. Spirituality is basically the process of having a positive relationship with God, oneself, others and the surroundings and ultimately the universe. The belief in a higher power keeps our impulses in check and helps promote a positive attitude in life.
Death, meaninglessness, hopelessness, and isolation form the core issues that lead to addiction. Humans are constantly trying to find meaning and fulfillment in life, and when these goals are apparently blocked one might fall prey to weakness and thus result in addiction to escape from reality. This existential vacuum leads people to believe that life are worthless or hopeless thus encouraging them to look for alternative forms of release. This leads to isolation which further increases the problem. Ties with loved ones become strained and the addict truly does become alone thus spiraling further into dangerous territory.
Thus, the crucial aspects of recovery include admitting to the problem and the fact that the addiction has taken control of their lives. A positive environment where the patient is provided with limitless support and love to help him overcome his weaknesses is very important. Spirituality thus plays an important role in helping the patient regain faith in the world. God’s power and mercy is stressed upon so that the patient does not feel alone and is capable of facing any given situation. Sharing one’s problem with others who have been through the same situation is also very helpful in strengthening one’s resolve in fighting the addiction. Family is also brought in for therapy sessions so that the patient has support outside of the group. Bonds play a very crucial role in recovery so patients are encouraged to make amends for their mistakes so that they can have some closure as well. Religious teaching is an important part of the process. Religious leaders are often brought in to guide and help the patients. They are also encouraged to actively participate in religious services and spiritual lessons so that they will continue with these practices even after they leave the rehab centers. Thus they not only ensure the physical recovery of the person but the overall mental, emotional and spiritual recovery as well.