The Nexus of Religion and Addiction Counseling: A Reflective Perspective

Abstract

Religion can serve the purpose of providing comfort during times of physical and/or emotional stress and can fill a void in the life of an individual experiencing substance use disorders. Neuroscience sheds some light and raises questions as to how the inner workings of the brain can affect the level of one's spirituality and the likelihood to engage in substance abuse. This article provides insight into factors that influence religiosity and considers the role that religion plays in the substance abuse recovery process. A reflective synopsis of a 6-week religious abstinence experience is discussed, and initial steps to abstain from using alcohol and other drugs are explained demonstrating the interconnectedness of religion and drug abuse. Implications for practice are also delineated.

Keywords::

• Religion
• neuroscience
• abstinence
• drugs
• substance use disorders