Contributor: Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC Special Projects Coordinator at Eating Disorder Hope/Addiction Hope
Addiction impacts a person on multiple levels, including physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Because of the complexity of addiction, treatment approaches must be multidimensional and help support an individual in a variety of ways.
This is especially true for the college student who is experiencing new challenges and responsibilities in addition to the commitment of remaining in recovery from an addiction to drugs or alcohol. While many various treatment approaches exist to support the efforts of a recovering addict, it is important to consider a whole person approach for long-term recovery.
Facing Our Limitations and Weaknesses
A holistic approach to addiction recovery often includes a spiritual component, or one that incorporates an element of faith. As human being, we are often faced with many limitations and weaknesses, and believing in something greater than ourselves can bring hope.
Finding hope in God can serve as an important foundation for the person who is seeking recovery and freedom from addiction.
Finding a Spiritual Connection
As a college student, finding a spiritual connection can be grounding during a time of many changes and transitions. Becoming involved with a church community can be one such way to support spirituality and to grow in faith.
Other addiction programs and support groups are based on spiritual principles, such as the 12-Step Programs. Becoming involved in such a support group, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, can help a recovering student establish a strong spiritual foundation that support recovery.
Hope for Sustained Recovery
If you are a college student in recovery from an addiction, consider how becoming involved in a church community or spiritually based support group might help support your endeavors and efforts. Having faith in something greater than yourself can give you the hope you need to sustain your recovery, particularly during times that are challenging and difficult.
Consider finding local groups and churches that are close to your campus and within your community. Depending on the college you are attending, you may even be able to find helpful resources on your own campus that support faith and recovery.
Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!
Are you a college student in recovery from addiction? How has faith or spirituality helped support your recovery efforts? How did you integrate faith and spirituality as a college student?
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on August 8th, 2015
Published on AddictionHope.com