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
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.
The Tea Ceremony – A Mindfulness Practice with Niina – Episode 52
In this episode of the podcast, we discuss a wonderful meditation practice that can benefit both the person performing the tea ceremony and those observing it.
Ibogaine Rehab in Thailand
There are people who have found ibogaine treatment to be useful in overcoming drug addiction, but it certainly does not appear to work for everyone. There are also potential dangers associated with it that anyone considering it needs to take into account.
Recovery from Covid Anxiety, Depression, and Addiction
Covid 19 has been like a massive storm that has passed through our lives and, at least for some of us, left behind lasting damage. Anxiety issues, depression, and substance abuse may be another obstacle that some of us will need to face.
May Day in Thailand- Stop Yearning for a Better Life and Begin Living It
May is the time of year when one season transforms into another, and this month can also be when you begin your own special transformation.
Easter – A Time for Redemption
Easter is when Christians around the globe celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. Recovery offers the chance of a new life following addiction. It is a type of resurrection.