Mormon Drug And Alcohol Rehab

The Mormon Faith And Drug And Alcohol Rehab

Addiction is a disease that affects millions of people across the United States, regardless of race, occupation, and religion – and this includes members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (commonly known as LDS or Mormon). Addiction can be particularly troubling to those of the LDS faith, as the religion stresses an emphasis on a sober lifestyle that begins at an early age, but there are many Mormon drug and alcohol rehab options available.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints’ guidelines on health practices are detailed in the Word of Wisdom and discourages Mormons from partaking in the use of any addictive substance. A deep tenet of the LDS faith is the strict avoidance of alcohol, drugs (except in the form of prescription medication), cigarettes, and caffeine of any form.

However, just as the Church expects its followers to emulate this high standard of behavior, it also understands that people make mistakes. If a parish member falls victim to addiction, the LDS Church provides resources to aid the way back to sobriety. The LDS Addiction Recovery Program offers members a support system that rehabilitates them back into Mormon culture and living, using the basics of the Book of Mormon and the 12-steps of Alcoholics Anonymous.

The LDS Addiction Recovery Program

The LDS Addiction Recovery Program (ARP) is a drug and alcohol addiction treatment program that features an LDS adaptation of the traditional 12-step recovery model that focuses on the Mormon understanding of Christ’s Atonement and the power of repentance. The program offers a faith-filled environment that allows time for members to figure out the root cause of their addictions and build their personal relationships with Jesus Christ.

In addition to detox and individualized therapy, many ARP facilities include the following services:

• Weekly church meetings
• Family visitations and counseling
• Daily meditation, prayer, and scripture study
• Weekly LDS Family Services addiction recovery group meetings
• Consultations with ecclesiastical leaders

The Church considers addiction to be a battle between good and evil. Substance abuse is a war waged in a person’s mind and body, but it is also a weapon used by the devil to turn people against the word of God. Therefore, drugs and alcohol prevent a person from achieving their full, spiritual potential and allow the body to control the mind. The Church believes that the best recovery lifestyle includes detoxification from those substances, atonement through Jesus Christ, and an all-encompassing dedication to lasting sobriety.

ARP was a natural choice for me, because as I was getting my life back together, I wanted to include the religious values I had grown up with and that led to the program and it all fit together nicely for me. It worked. It really helped my life. And it was great to be a part of it and see how many other people were helped by it, too.

The LDS Addiction Recovery Program has facilities located throughout the United States and Canada. In places where ARP does not operate, bishops can refer members to counselors or other programs with values that are supportive of LDS principles and standards.

Brigham Young University Addiction Resources

One LDS population that is particularly affected by substance use and addiction is college-aged youth. When selecting a college to attend, many young Mormons select Brigham Young University (BYU) as it is founded, supported, and guided by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Just as the Church offers addiction resources for members in need, so does BYU.

Brigham Young University’ Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) provides individualized, couples, and group counseling options free of charge for students seeking help regarding substance use. CAPS also offers stress management courses and behavioral addiction services. One of the major addictions that students are looking to the school for help recovering from is pornography addiction. Like the use of alcohol and drugs, any pornography or use of pornography is considered to be a sin by the Church. BYU is looking to expand its recovery resources to include support from ecclesiastical leaders in the coming years to help strengthen students’ relationships with Jesus Christ while undergoing treatment.

Find Mormon Drug And Alcohol Rehab Today

If you’re an individual of the Mormon faith and dealing with addiction, know that you’re not alone. There is help available that will consider your religious affiliation and beliefs. You may consider asking the following questions to ensure the rehab you choose aligns with your values:

• Is faith incorporated into the treatment program or do they offer faith-based support groups?
• Would you have access to a religious leader from the church during treatment?
• Would they be able to cater to dietary restrictions and requests?

Contact a treatment provider to learn about your potential treatment options and get started on the path to recovery today.