On the subject of addiction and spirituality, Bill Wilson, co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, wrote:

“For we have not only been mentally and physically ill, we have been spiritually sick. When the spiritual malady is overcome, we straighten out mentally and physically.”

Taken together, these ideas suggest that the role of God or a higher power is essential to recovery. Furthermore, when practiced regularly, religious or spiritual ritual can be of great use to people.

The Recovery Role Of A Higher Power

The idea and possible power of a ‘higher power’ may come in many different forms. Certain studies suggest that an addicts recovery process may be easier if they believe a ‘higher power’ is looking out for them, caring for them, and even loving them. This belief may help you on your road to recovery.

Non-Spirituality Increases Chances Of Substance Abuse

In 2001, the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse conducted a study linking recovery to religion. They found that adults who don’t consider religious beliefs important are:

More than one and a half times likelier to use alcohol and cigarettes.

More than three times likelier to binge drink.

Almost four times likelier to use an illicit drug other than marijuana.

More than six times likelier to use marijuana.

…compared to adults who strongly believe that religion is important. Teens and children who are not spiritually or religiously inclined have even worse odds.

“When patients believe that divine intervention will prevail in their choices over the physical realities, that their behavior is predetermined and have limited control over their destiny, or that God has abandoned them or that they are being punished, they may be more likely to relapse,” the study reads.

For more information on how Step One Recovery can help you on the path to a healthier life, contact us today.