Faith-based intervention, change in religiosity, and abstinence among people with substance use disorders

This study examines how changes in religiosity influence recovery outcomes among people in addiction treatment. It finds that individuals in faith-based programs show higher and increasing levels of religiosity over time, which is linked to better abstinence outcomes after treatment.

While both faith-based and secular programs provide similar clinical support (e.g. counseling, social support), faith-based approaches add a strong spiritual dimension, which appears to strengthen long-term recovery. The findings highlight that religiosity is not static—its development over time plays an important role in sustaining abstinence.

Overall, the study suggests that spiritual growth can be a key factor in maintaining recovery, especially when integrated with broader treatment approaches.