Spirituality and religion : elements used in the healing process relating to drug addiction

Abstract

Spirituality and religion have their own distinct meanings. However, for certain individuals and cultures, they can also be related and thus meaningful to their lives. The aim of this research study was to identify whether or not the element of spirituality and religion are valid elements used in the healing process to drug addiction. A quantitative approach was taken in this research study. The Programme of San Blas was evaluated. An international scale that measures spirituality was used in this study to measure the importance of spirituality and religion among the residents. The scale was distributed to all the residents using the San Blas Rehabilitation Programme. The 6-point likert scale included a number of statements addressing the religious well-being, the existential well-being and the programme well-being. The importance and relevance of using spirituality and religion as an element in the healing process to drug addiction, has been viewed by the residents of San Blas as useful to their rehabilitation programme. Moreover, this study revealed that for those individuals who follow some form of belief, the inclusion of such beliefs as part of the rehabilitation programme, helps in their recovery process. However, the study also indicated that for residents who showed reluctance or rejection of recognizing spirituality and religion as relevant to their healing process, the benefits to their recovery process are diminished.