Drug and alcohol addiction is one of the leading causes of premature death, with over 900,000 overdose deaths recorded between 1999 and 2020, according to the CDC. However, the number of fatalities has declined recently. The recovery rate has been impressive, thanks to the rampant rehab treatment options and support groups available.
Many support groups cater to individuals in addiction recovery, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA). Also known as 12-step programs, these two are prominent support groups based on spiritual principles that enable sober living. Participants acknowledge the higher power and seek redemption. However, these faith-based groups don’t cater to atheists or secularists seeking Sobriety, as their beliefs don’t align.
So how can these individuals quit addiction and live sober without joining these faith-based systems? Luckily, various support groups that aren’t based on the 12-step method or any other spiritual guideline are available. They are called secular addiction recovery programs. Because you don’t believe in a higher power or spirituality doesn’t mean you can’t seek help.
Are There Secular Addiction Recovery Programs?
Yes, there are. Non-religious individuals or secularists who can’t conform to the religious beliefs of the 12-step-based groups can join these programs to achieve Sobriety. These programs lack religious elements and follow an evidence-based approach to managing addiction. They aren’t disadvantaged; they receive the same treatment as those in the 12-step-based programs.
Before proceeding to the various options available, you must know what constitutes secular recovery programs. Unlike the 12-step, secular recovery programs are based on philosophical principles and morality. These principles center on ethics, empathy, morals, and logic. Ethics is understanding other people’s perspectives and ensuring individuals act according to principles.
Secular substance abuse recovery programs are:
SMART Recovery
Self-Management and Recovery Training, abbreviated as SMART Recovery, is an evidence-based program that underscores self-empowerment and scientific approaches like CBT. It helps individuals learn skills to cope with their addiction by setting goals and addressing behaviors that trigger addiction.
LifeRing Secular Recovery
LifeRing Recovery is a supportive community that emphasizes personal development. Individuals are taught to rely on their abilities to beat addiction. LifeRing encourages open communication and sharing experiences without focusing on religion.
Secular Organizations for Sobriety
Simply SOS, this is another support network that doesn’t rely on a higher power to achieve lasting recovery. Instead, it emphasizes that Sobriety is a choice and we are responsible for our life’s decisions. SOS daily or weekly meetings, where individuals in recovery share their challenges, experiences, and strategies to living an addiction-free life.
Like 12 steps, regular meeting attendance will increase your chances of living sober. However, these programs may not suit you. Exploring each of them gives you the best chance at choosing one that aligns with your needs.
Women for Sobriety
Women for Sobriety is a support program tailored for women recovering from drug and alcohol misuse. WSF was founded in 1975 and relies on principles focusing on women’s unique needs. The program believes that bonding can increase one’s willpower to defeat addiction. The good thing about WFS is that they offer both in-person and online meetings.
Differences Between Secular Rehab Treatment and 12-Step Programs
The significant difference between secular rehab programs and their 12-step counterparts is religious belief. Individuals in the 12-step programs transform their lives through religion, while secularists change their lives through self-empowerment and evidence-based treatments like mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medication.
Evidence-based treatments are medical treatments that have been scientifically and clinically proven. These treatments are backed by empirical evidence from rigorous research, including trials and other studies. They are safer and more effective compared to interventions that lack scientific validation.
Some secular rehab programs are based on alternative 12 steps. They are similar to the traditional 12-step programs, without the belief in a higher power. They emphasize one’s actions in line with meditation and mindfulness.
CFC Recovery Offers Secular Addiction Recovery Programs
Many treatment centers offer 12-step programs, but only a few have secular drug and alcohol treatment programs. As a non-religious or secular individual in New Jersey seeking support to stay free from substance abuse, you don’t need to research a facility that offers secular recovery programs. CFC Recovery offers secular support programs that cater to your needs.
Our New Jersey relapse prevention program helps rebuild the lives of those who have completed treatment and seek more support to integrate into the world. Our secular programs are unique, with a solid accountability system to help individuals in the group help each other to achieve lasting Sobriety. Get a call through to us at 1-833-300-HOPE.
