As you flip through pamphlets in your search for a rehab center, you begin to see a common theme. Many of the addiction treatment centers carry the idea that God is the key to your sobriety. There are even those that offer to help you find him in your journey to recovery.
Unfortunately, not everyone carries these religious ideals. Every person is unique, built of different experiences, circumstances that led them here, beliefs and histories. These things influence their addiction and pathway to recovery. It raises the question — do you need spirituality to maintain sobriety?
Spirituality in Recovery
When talking about spirituality, it’s often thought of as “religious” or “otherworldly.” In weaving the two together, it can create a negative connotation that comes with considering yourself a “spiritual” person. In fact, an addiction treatment program that brands itself as such can often be a deterrent that alienates people who need assistance.
Religion shouldn’t be frowned upon. For many, a person finds religion as a different venue in which they can be forgiven and find a greater purpose in life.
The idea behind recovery is simply seeking to develop a depth to clients. Realistically you’re changing the way you think. Success in long term recovery can come from this change in thinking — a person goes from a chemically dependent lifestyle to a non-addiction path.
Alternative Spiritualities
As you grow in your recovery, you want to love the world you’re a part of. Spirituality can come outside of gospel and doctrine. For many people, spirituality can be found in meditation, nature, diet or even creativity.
Fighting your substance abuse requires increased coping capabilities, a sense of purpose, a positive life, social support and ways to manage your stress. Whether you find this within the walls of a church building or instead on a mountaintop, your recovery outcome can ultimately change with the shift in your thinking.
