Episode 40 – Atheism, Agnosticism, and Recovery
Some nuggets from this episode
- A full recovery from addiction is possible without belief in a deity.
- ‘Spirituality’ may be a key component for many of us recovering from addiction, but this is more about a sense of connection with something bigger rather than belief in a specific deity.
- A lack of belief in a supreme being doesn’t have to prevent us from getting the most out of recovery groups and other resources.
A conversation between Doug Sutherland and Paul Garrigan
There are many of us can be put off by all the ‘God talk’ in recovery, and this may mean we dismiss viable options that could be of value. Doug explains that as far as spirituality goes, it is all about our own interpretation of what ‘spirituality’ means. The important thing is that we feel connected to something bigger. He also offers reassurance that a full recovery is possible without belief in a deity.
Hope Mindful Compassion Show – Episode 40
Press play below to listen to this week’s show.
Topics covered in this week’s show include:
- Is non-belief an issue for people who come to rehab?
- Why is belief in God such a controversial topic in western recovery?
- Is a belief in God necessary for those who want to recover from addiction?
- How important is it to respect the right to ‘not believe’?
- Is it fair/right to encourage atheists to develop belief in a God?
- Is there a tendency to treat atheism as ‘part of the disease’?
- Can atheists practice the 12 steps?
- Are there alternatives to the 12 steps?
- What would you say to atheists/agnostics who are thinking of coming to rehab?
You can also listen to the podcast on iTunes
If you enjoyed the show, don’t forget to share it on social media.
Other Topics That Might Interest You
A Christmas Gift with Hope Rehab Thailand
If you really want this Christmas to be different, perhaps the wisest course of action would be to seek help with the things that are holding you back. This would not only many a better festive season but more importantly a better life
The Great Escape – Thailand Means No Cold Winter Blues
Winter can be a particularly challenging time for our mental health. Sometimes the best solution to a dark time can be a change of scenery. This is not about running away from our problems but about doing what we need to do in order to manage and survive them.
Autumn is a Time of Letting Go In Order to Change
Autumn (Fall in North America) provides the perfect example of how change occurs. It involves the letting go of the old to make room for the new.
Hope Rehab Adventure – Life Changing Experiences
During your time with us at Hope, you can expect a life-changing adventure, but we will also provide you with the tools you need for a better future. This is not a quick fix because quick fixes don’t tend to last
Summertime Blues – Depression, Anxiety, and Addiction Issues
A lack of love for the summertime may just be down to personal preference, but it can also be due to an underlying disorder or because we’ve had bad experiences at this time of year. Summer can bring out the worst in us, and this is particularly the case if we have some kind of addiction issue.
