A solid spiritual base will allow an individual to overcome their addiction though it will be a lifelong process of purification and enrichment (Carr, 1995). The hope is that if behavior and way of life of an addict is changed and the chances of reuse will be diminished.
To change ones behavior the entire person must first be transformed, and at some level spirituality is needed for this transformation to take place. Providers of treatment must break the silence of patients and raise their self-esteem so that they can face the problems that caused their addiction. It is believed that addiction robs people of their spiritual power, and that spirituality treatment treats the whole person: mind, body, and soul (National Association of Addiction Providers, 2000).
Spirituality in addiction treatment is individually specific. Meaning spirituality can mean and entail whatever the individual wants or believes it to be. Spirituality can simply be looking deep into one's self and finding meaning in ones life. Spirituality can also be a strong belief in God and turning ones live over to the will of God. Spirituality allows the individual to view life in a different manor and live a healthier more enjoyable life.
Spirituality is often viewed as an individual's general thoughtfulness. This simple definition may explain why spiritually lead people are less prone to abuse alcohol and other substances. They think and consider their actions carefully and, think in terms of long-range consequences of drug abuse (Dermantis et al, 1996). Studies have shown that being an active member of any religious tradition is related to less alcohol consumption. A feeling of religious commitment also has an impact on the lack of alcohol and drug use among those who have live spiritual lives (Dermantis et al, 1996). Studies have also shown that spirituality treatment is effective in reducing both short and long-term stress, and spiritual therapies are methods suitable for alcoholism and chemical dependency (Dermantis et al, 1996).