Addiction affects people across various backgrounds. Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS), colloquially known as Mormons, are not immune to addictive behavior. For Mormons, the emphasis on a sober lifestyle begins early, guided by the Word of Wisdom—a set of health practices discouraging the use of addictive substances. Deviating from these guidelines is considered a deviation from the teachings of the faith. Yet we do know that it does happen and it can be all the more isolating and painful when ones behavior is in opposition to ones beliefs and at odds with the teachings of community and family. This type of taboo dynamic can make addiction more difficult to address and thus to overcome.
Mormonism and Addiction: A Doctrinal Perspective
The Word of Wisdom is not just a guideline; it is a doctrine that promises both spiritual and physical blessings to those who adhere to its principles. Strict avoidance of alcohol, drugs, cigarettes, and caffeine is expected from all members of the LDS Church.
However, recognizing the reality of human fallibility, the LDS Church acknowledges that individuals may make mistakes, including falling victim to addiction. In such cases, the church provides resources to guide members back to sobriety.
The LDS Addiction Recovery Program (ARP)
ARP is a comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program tailored to the LDS community. It adapts the traditional 12-step recovery model from Alcoholics Anonymous to incorporate the Mormon understanding of Christ’s Atonement and the power of repentance. This faith-filled environment allows members to delve into the root causes of their addictions while building personal relationships with Jesus Christ.
The program goes beyond conventional treatment methods, offering:
- Weekly Church Meetings: Provide a sense of community and spiritual support.
- Family Visitations and Counseling: Recognize the importance of familial relationships in the recovery process.
- Daily Meditation, Prayer, and Scripture Study: Emphasize the role of faith in the recovery journey.
- Weekly LDS Family Services Addiction Recovery Group Meetings: Fosters a supportive community.
- Consultations with Ecclesiastical Leaders: Incorporates religious guidance in the recovery process.
The LDS Church believes in the power of Atonement through Jesus Christ and advocates for detoxification from substances, a commitment to lasting sobriety, and a dedication to spiritual growth.
The 12 Steps of ARP: A Spiritual Journey to Recovery
The 12 steps of ARP, based on the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, align with gospel principles to guide individuals toward overcoming addiction through the power of atonement. Each step involves explanations of principles, practical suggestions, and questions for self-reflection:
- Honesty: Admit powerlessness and unmanageability.
- Hope: Believe in the power of God for restoration.
- Trust in God: Surrender will and life to God.
- Truth: Conduct a moral inventory.
- Confession: Admit wrongs to God, others, and self.
- Change of Heart: Become ready for character change.
- Humility: Humbly ask God to remove shortcomings.
- Seeking Forgiveness: List persons harmed and become willing to restore.
- Restitution and Reconciliation: Make direct restitution to those harmed.
- Daily Accountability: Take a personal inventory and admit wrongs.
- Personal Revelation: Seek God’s will through prayer and meditation.
- Service: Share the message with others and practice principles.
Christian’s Drug Rehab embraces the importance of faith-based treatment in overcoming drug addiction. Contact us today to start a powerful conversation that has the potential to change your whole life while respecting your personal value system.
