Why do some clients prefer faith-based treatment centers?
Our site breaks down the different treatment options available to those struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. There are numerous options available to meet the many different needs of patients. Some rehabilitation clients find spirituality to be extremely comforting during times of need. Finding inner peace is a lifelong goal. Of all the faith-based drug rehabilitation programs available, the most widely recognized and accessible is the 12-step program know as Alcoholics Anonymous, or “AA” (or in some areas, the narcotics-specific affiliate, “Narcotics Anonymous (NA)”.
A faith-based drug rehabilitation program offers individuals that are seeking a spiritual environment the ideal option for them to recover from addiction. This kind of treatment program helps individuals to restore their faith and devotion to their Higher Power that may have been lost during their drug or alcohol addiction. Faith-based treatment can also work for those who are not as familiar with religion or spirituality, as with any rehabilitation treatment, it is always about what works for YOU. Next, we will provide an outline detailing what unique benefits faith-based treatment has to offer.
The Importance of Having Spirituality
Addiction is a 3-fold disease. It affects not just the mind and body, but can also leave the user spiritually bankrupt. 12 step programs often discuss the importance of spirituality when facing addiction. Those affected are encouraged to believe in a more powerful entity, and to trust they will find support and strength through spirituality that can help them in facing not only the struggles of addiction, but the challenges found in sober life, as well. Not everyone accepts this opinion, but many have found spirituality leads to positive improvements in their emotional state, and consequently, that peace of mind can assist with dealing with any number of illnesses, including addiction.
How Does A Faith-Based Drug Rehabilitation Program Work?
Generally, faith-based drug rehabilitation programs are run by religious figures, such as a Pastor, Priest or Rabbi, along with addiction specialists. Programs are usually inpatient treatment, where the recovering individual’s quarters are on the property of the church that is attended during the treatment program.
In comparison with many better-known “steps-based” programs, faith-based drug rehabilitation is not based upon concrete, measurable evidence of progress. Rather, faith-based programs focus on recognition of the significance of one’s Higher Power. Faith-based drug rehabilitation programs typically encourage those suffering to find peace through humility, submission to the Higher Power, and acknowledgement of their lack of control.
Seeking a Faith-based Rehabilitation Center And Its Benefits
Residents of a faith-based drug rehabilitation generally have similar core beliefs, which may make fellowship easier, and may also help clients to better communicate and assist one another with their struggles. Having a common interest among rehab residents can greatly improve the atmosphere. According to the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous, some of the greatest benefits of attending a faith-based rehabilitation program are as follows:
- Perception change
- Learning to let go of bad feelings about self
- Acceptance
- Not living in fear
- Inner peace and happiness
- Wanting to help others
- Letting go of self-pity and past decisions
What to consider when looking for a Spiritual Treatment Program
Whether faith-based or otherwise, finding the right treatment program for your needs involves a number of different elements to consider. Recovery is critical and does not happen overnight. When seeking a faith-based rehabilitation program, here are some specific factors we recommend contemplating:
- What different treatment options do they offer? What principals are they basing their counseling on and what’s being offered in those sessions? Do they offer group therapy, individual therapy, or perhaps both? Will you be required to partake in 12 Step meetings outside of the center? Though faith-based rehabilitation has a spiritual foundation, the program’s therapists must incorporate physiological principals as well.
- What specific spiritual principles are the basis? Faith-based treatment is similar to other types of rehabilitation in that there are many different options. When choosing a faith-based program, you need to verify it is in fact aligned with your own spirituality and moral beliefs. The very last thing you want an addict to feel like when going into treatment is uncomfortable.
- How are the spiritual principles incorporated into the center? Will you be required to attend religious services such as church, bible study, and/or prayer group? Will you be comfortable attending those groups or services? These are questions you should ask before choosing a faith-based rehabilitation center.