West Palm Beach, FL 5/25/2012 3:56:20 AM
News / Health & Wellness

Christian Substance Abuse Treatment Combines God With Psychology

Christian substance abuse treatment must address the emotional and psycological aspects of addiction as well as the spiritual.   That is a heady statement, but it is rooted in truth. Christian addiction treatment programs have become incredibly popular in recent years, for many different reasons. Addiction is often accompanied by feelings of guilt and shame, and addicts often experience depression while struggling with the negative consequences of their addiction. Drug and alcohol addiction affects everyone, not just the addict, but their family and friends, and everyone can benefit from help.

A faith-based approach to the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction seeks to help the addict grow stronger, not only physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well. Addiction destroys an addict's health and their self-esteem, but Christian substance abuse treatment programs strive to rebuild every component of an addict's live through Biblical principles.  With  prayer and fellowship combined with solid therapy addicts are given the opportunity to be heard, as well as to listen to the experiences of other addicts.Faith based addiction treatment encourages opening up to others, which is sometimes surprising, since addiction is an insular and isolating existence.

Psychological counseling is not opposed to faith-based treatment in any way.  Christian therapists are trained to combine their faith with the principles of psychology in effective ways.  Faith is based in trust and in order for therapy to be effective trust is essential.  In many ways, a solid faith makes therapy easier to apply in daily life.

Addicts who choose a Christian substance abuse treatment are surprised at how faith plays a role in their recovery. Many addicts who choose a Christian addiction treatment program have had little or no exposure to a faith-based community, and many find themselves feeling like a fish out of water. Most quickly find themselves in a place where they belong for the first time in their lives. And that is a beautiful thing. Christian substance abuse treatment forces addicts to become responsible for their actions and take control of their future.