LDS Church support for addiction
“Recovery is something that you have to work on every single day and it’s something that doesn’t get a day off.” – Demi Lovato
Addiction is destroying lives at an alarming rate. According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, over 50% of people aged 12 and older have used illicit drugs at least once. For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the pain of addiction can come with an added layer of guilt, shame, and secrecy. But within the Church exists a powerful network of spiritual support: bishops and stake presidents in addiction recovery play a key role in helping individuals find light through their darkest times.
This post explores how LDS Church support for addiction works through compassionate leadership, the 12-step Addiction Recovery Program (ARP), and partnerships with clinical rehabs—including faith based rehab and Mormon rehab programs. Whether you’re in Utah or anywhere else across the country, this guide is a hub of healing, resources, and spiritual restoration.
Understanding the Dangers: Why the Church Must Be Involved
The enemy of recovery is isolation. Shame leads many to suffer in silence, especially in religious communities where expectations for behavior and lifestyle are high. Addiction can feel like a secret you must hide, even from Church leaders. But this silence is deadly.
Addiction is a chronic disease—just like diabetes or heart disease. It rewires the brain and destroys self-control. More than 70,000 Americans die from drug overdoses each year, and many others spiral into depression, financial ruin, or broken families. For some, the road back to hope begins with a single, difficult conversation—with a bishop or stake president.
How Bishops and Stake Presidents Support Addiction Recovery
LDS bishops and stake presidents are not therapists—but they are spiritual first responders. Their calling gives them stewardship over the spiritual welfare of members in their ward or stake, and that includes helping individuals navigate addiction recovery.
Providing a Safe and Confidential Place
Church leaders are taught to keep these conversations strictly confidential. Whether someone is struggling with alcohol, drugs, pornography, or another behavior, the first step is often a private interview where the individual can open up without fear of judgment.
Bishops and stake presidents listen with empathy and offer:
- Gospel-centered counsel
- Referrals to professional help, such as detox to rehab centers or faith based rehab
- Encouragement to participate in the Addiction Recovery Program (ARP)
- Spiritual blessings and prayer
They also provide support to families, helping them understand the nature of addiction and how to extend Christlike compassion.
The LDS Addiction Recovery Program (ARP): 12 Steps to Healing
The ARP is modeled after the original 12-step program but is centered on the teachings of Jesus Christ. Church leaders frequently guide individuals toward this program as part of the recovery journey.
How the ARP Works
Each meeting includes:
- A focus on one of the 12 steps
- Scripture readings from the Book of Mormon and other LDS texts
- Sharing personal experiences of healing
- Prayer and peer support
Examples of the Steps:
- Step 1: Honesty – Admitting you have a problem
- Step 2: Hope – Believing in the power of God to heal
- Step 3: Trust in God – Turning your will over to Him
Bishops and stake presidents in addiction recovery settings may recommend ARP meetings weekly as part of a person’s healing routine, often in combination with professional rehabs or sober living arrangements.
Why Clinical and Spiritual Support Must Work Together
Many people think it’s either/or—either you go to Church or you go to rehab. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Mormon rehab programs and faith based rehab centers often partner with local Church leaders to provide comprehensive care.
Detox to Rehab and Beyond
The path to recovery might begin with medical detox. But staying sober is a lifelong effort. That’s why Church leaders continue offering support after clinical care ends. They encourage scripture study, Church attendance, and service opportunities that rebuild spiritual confidence and community trust.
LDS Church Support for Addiction: What Families Need to Know
Addiction is a family disease. It affects everyone in the household. Bishops and stake presidents can counsel spouses, parents, and children too.
Helping a Loved One
- Reach out to your bishop first.
- Ask for guidance on ARP or other resources.
- Avoid enabling behavior.
- Support your loved one in attending meetings, getting professional help, and rebuilding their faith.
Families are not alone. The Church teaches that no one is beyond the reach of the Savior’s healing power.
Hope, Healing, and the Savior’s Grace
Bishops and stake presidents aren’t perfect. But they are called by God to help His children return to Him. They represent His mercy, not His punishment.
A Message of Hope
If you are struggling, you are not weak. You are fighting a powerful disease. And there is help. Whether through a faith based rehab, Mormon rehab, or the guidance of your bishop, you can recover. The Savior stands with open arms.
Jesus Christ is central to all healing. The ARP, scripture study, prayer, and priesthood blessings are all part of His plan to lift the broken-hearted.
Next Steps and Resources
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, here are some immediate actions to take:
- Talk to your bishop or stake president confidentially
- Attend an ARP meeting – Find one at arp.churchofjesuschrist.org
- Consider faith-based treatment – Learn about facilities on Detox to Rehab’s Faith-Based Recovery Hub
- Explore sober living options – These homes extend support after inpatient rehab
- Join family support meetings – Healing is stronger together
Final Thoughts: You’re Never Alone
This guide is more than an article—it’s a bridge. A way forward.
Bishops and stake presidents in addiction recovery have a divine role to play in lifting burdens and guiding members toward the Savior’s healing light. With their help—and the strength of the LDS Church support for addiction—you or your loved one can walk the path from darkness to hope.
Healing is not only possible—it’s promised to all who come unto Christ.
