As you’re exploring options for substance abuse rehab and recovery, you may have come across some programs that are faith-based. Therefore, you’re wondering how effective these programs are. Considering your personal stances and needs in terms of faith is an important part of answering this question. Take into account the benefits of such a program too.
Your Beliefs
In order to arrive at an informed conclusion regarding the benefits of faith-based treatment, you need to think about your own beliefs. When it comes to faith-based treatment, you typically have a few options:
- specific religious approach
- more general religious approach
- spiritual approach
- secular approach
Some treatment facilities follow the rules of a specific denomination. For example, you could enroll in a program that is specific for followers of Catholicism or Reformed Judaism. In this type of treatment program, you may be expected to follow the rules of that faith. Of course, treatment programs vary, so you need to speak with a representative from the center to find out exactly how the program will operate.
Another possibility is that the center is guided by the principles of a certain religion without adhering strictly to the tenets of one denomination. It’s possible to find a treatment center that takes a general Islamic or Christian approach to treatment. Still other treatment centers employ spirituality. You may have the option to participate in prayer or meditation.
The staff members may also encourage the guidance of a higher being on your road to recovery. However, the center will not focus on any one religion. You could also choose secular treatment where a higher being is not involved at all. Ultimately, you need to consider what your own religious and spiritual beliefs are. Selecting a program that aligns with your personal beliefs is typically an effective idea.
Benefits of Faith-based Treatment
If you are a religious or spiritual person or if you would like to connect with a higher being during your recovery, consider the additional benefits of faith-based treatment.
Support of a Higher Being
Recovery from alcohol addiction is going to come with some bumps in the road and difficult times. Turning to a higher being can be immensely powerful. When you believe in a higher being, you never have to feel alone. If you awake in the middle of the night filled with anxiety about your recovery, you can have a conversation with your higher power in that moment.
Ability to Learn
Perhaps you were not raised in a particular religion, or maybe spirituality has played very little role in your adult life. Going to a faith-based treatment center gives you the chance to learn about the powerful role of belief in recovery. If you are unfamiliar with specific religions, the best idea here is likely to enroll in a program that takes a more general approach to religion or spirituality.
Comfortability
Enrolling in a program that aligns with the beliefs of your specific denomination can provide a sense of comfortability. When you enter into a treatment program, you’ll need to get used to new routines and experiences. Having an understanding of the religious elements of the program can help you to feel more immediately comfortable with the treatment. Even if you’ve been away from the faith for some time, picking up where you left off can feel like walking into the house of an old, trusted friend.
Sense of Community
During your time in treatment, you are going to be encouraged to share your feelings and experiences with other people. Talking about your substance abuse can feel awkward and overwhelming, especially in a group of strangers. However, you’ll know that the group shares in your faith. Awareness of this common factor can provide you with the motivation to tell your story. A faith-based treatment program is the right answer for some clients and the wrong option for others. Whether or not you should enroll in this type of program largely depends upon your personal beliefs and needs. You can talk through this situation to arrive at a conclusion by calling 855-334-6120 today.
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