The American Society of Addiction Medicine in Chevy Chase, Md., is an organization of physicians trained in addiction medicine. The organization is focused on increasing access to addiction treatment and improving it. It runs a yearly scientific meeting and certifies physicians in addiction medicine.

Alcoholics Anonymous is the parent of all 12-step, self-help recovery groups. Founded by the late stockbroker William G. Wilson and physician Robert H. Smith, its principles for recovery from addiction are based on 12 steps, which include the acknowledgment of a “higher power,” meeting attendance and peer sponsorship. AA’s worldwide membership is 2 million.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services deals with substance abuse and mental health issues together. Its mission is to build resilience and facilitate recovery for people with or at risk for substance abuse and mental illness. It provides more than $1.6 billion to support states’ efforts […]

Read a 2005 Science Direct Study that found spirituality and mindfulness effective treatments of disorders and addictions.

Read a 2004 article in Science & Theology News about the effects of compassionate love, altruism and spirituality in 12-step programs, and their effect on the health of recovering alcoholics.

Get a historical perspective on “Faith-Based Recovery: Its Historical Roots” in a 2005 article in Counselor: The Magazine for Addiction Professionals.

Read a 2013 comparative analysis of faith-based and secular interventions and treatments for substance abusers.

Read a 2001 CASAColumbia study that dives into the link between religion and spirituality and substance abuse.

Read a study conducted by the American Psychological Association revealing that adolescents’ perceived importance on religion and spirituality cut their interaction with drug use in half compared to adolescents who did not view religion as important.