SPIRITUAL REBEL

Consider these numbers on alcoholism:

• 1 in 8 people – 12.7% of the population now meets diagnostic criteria for “alcohol use disorder” (According to a recent study by JAMA Psychiatry)

• And it's even higher – 1 in 4 people  –  for those under age 30

 

Now, widen beyond drinking:

• 19.7 million Americans battle substance use disorder (2017: National Survey on Drug Use and Health) 

 

Now, widen beyond substances:

• A wide range of people are finding freedom from a range of addictions in 12-step communities such as Workaholics Anonymous, Debtors Anonymous, Emotions Anonymous, and Online Gamers Anonymous just to name a few (see expanded list below)

 

Now, widen beyond the addict:

• Generally accepted figures suggest one addict affects at least 4 other people around them, if not more, including family, friends, employers, etc.

 

Chances are there are people in your community who are actively addicted, in recovery, or affected by someone who is either. Understanding addiction and recovery can help us all make our sacred spaces welcoming and safe for all valuable members of our communities.