ABSTRACT

Spirituality and addiction are intimately intertwined. Addiction may be understood as a spiritual problem, either as a misguided spiritual quest or a falling away from spirituality. Spirituality may be protective against the development of addiction, especially where there is active participation in spiritual practices. There are various forms of treatment for addiction that have a spiritual element. The most widespread are 12-step groups or treatments derived from the 12-step approach. Promising new forms of treatment include those derived from Buddhism, in particular through the use of mindfulness.