Guidelines for Integrating Spirituality into the Prevention and Treatment of Alcohol and other Substance Use Disorders.

Abstract

Alcohol and other substance use disorders are complex problems with multiple variables and determinants, requiring a multidimensional approach to prevention and treatment. A robust research body shows that Religiosity and Spirituality (R/S) have a prominent role in these disorders; however, a current gap is how to apply this knowledge. We present practical guidelines on how to integrate R/S to substance use prevention and treatment in an ethical and evidence-based way. These guidelines have been endorsed by many academic leaders in these topics and by health associations related to the three major Brazilian religions. The integration of R/S is part of a respectful person-centered interdisciplinary approach, that do not to impose religious beliefs or secular worldviews. The most critical interventions include collecting the history of spiritual and religious beliefs, practices and experiences and how these may be used positively in treatment. It is also essential that health professionals are encouraged to value and respect the R/S of patients, as well as that religious groups recognize that professional and technical interventions can make a valuable contribution to preventing and treating these disorders.