by William W. May

About the author: William W. May is a professor of religion at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.

The single most important event for an addict or alcoholic to experience in early recovery is the beginning of a distinct spiritual focus for living. In many cases the alcoholic or addict is cynical, agnostic, or atheistic—or their spiritual view of life is identical to their religious upbringing. In the last instance, the person manifests extreme guilt; the former is contemptuous of spirituality. A new or different spiritual focus for life emerges gradually during abstinence, beginning during the initial days of recovery. Upon intake into rehabilitation treatment, clinical assessments and formal treatment plans to facilitate this process should be started immediately by staff.

Alcoholism Is a Spiritual Disorder

The need...