The question can be asked: Does the disease of the human spirit fit or does not fit into specific models of addiction? “In short, those who misuse substances are viewed by adherents of the spiritual model as attempting to gain the benefits of spirituality without the long journey necessary to achieve the peaceful sense of unity with the universe and the Higher Power of their choice” (Doweiko, 2019).

Substances, when used or misused, will take a person on a “high” like no other. Many individuals use drugs for that very purpose: to escape reality, to live in a fantasy land where all their dreams come true. Most people like the feeling of being high, the euphoric sensation. If they are feeling down, depressed, or lonely, they can take a pill or snort a line of cocaine to take away the bad feeling. The sad part is that the feeling is only temporary. Could it be that society uses drugs to substitute for what they need and want?

Are you ready to change?

The disease of the human spirit may fit into the Moral/Volitional Model, where spirituality can fulfill humanity’s desires and needs.  What is it that people are missing in their lives and could be in such denial? Most seek comfort and love but will never find it in a bottle, pipe, or other substances. A man was created for one reason: to have a relationship, fellowship, and intimacy with his higher power. What some people with a substance use disorder are looking for in substances may be found in a higher power. Yes, in most cases, the addicted person is spiritually bankrupt and lost.

One of the reasons addictions are so powerful is because they are a form of idolatry. When we become addicted to our drug of choice, habit of choice, or behavior of choice, we become slaves to that object or thing. Once a slave, people with an addiction will obey their master. At that point, the person with an addiction will worship and bow down to whatever behavior or drug is in front of him and engage in whatever actions his or her mind tells him to do.

Finally, Clinton and Scalise (2013) state that the models of addictions are “The disease model, genetic model, biological model, choice model, personality model, coping/social learning model, sociocultural model, and spiritual model” ( pg, 27-28).

References:

Clinton, T., & Scalise, E. (2013). The quick-reference guide to addictions and recovery counseling: 40 topics, spiritual insights, and easy-to-use action steps. New York, NY: Baker Books.

Doweiko, H. E. (2019). Concepts of chemical dependency (10th ed.). Stamford, CT: Cengage.