Comprehensive Guide to Mormon Rehab, Faith-Based Healing, and Lasting Sobriety
“You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
When someone is battling addiction, the darkness can feel all-consuming. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), over 46 million Americans (2021) suffered from a substance use disorder. That’s one in every six people. It doesn’t just affect the person using—it devastates families, friendships, and futures.
For those seeking hope, especially within the Latter-day Saint (LDS) community, the Book of Mormon and addiction recovery go hand-in-hand. Many people don’t realize the incredible strength and guidance found in scriptures for healing from addiction. These ancient words hold modern power—offering tools for personal change, encouragement, and deep spiritual comfort.
Whether you’re a parent, church leader, or someone struggling firsthand, this post introduces you to the LDS Addiction Recovery Program (ARP) and how it builds bridges between clinical rehab and spiritual salvation.
Finding Light in Darkness: Why Scripture Matters in Recovery
Addiction can rob a person of everything—health, trust, finances, even their faith. It destroys self-worth and replaces it with shame.
But here’s the truth: you are not broken beyond repair. There is hope. There is healing.
And for many, that begins with faith.
The Power of the Book of Mormon and Addiction Recovery
The Book of Mormon speaks directly to suffering and redemption. Verses like Mosiah 24:14 remind us that the Lord will ease our burdens and walk with us in trials. These scriptures don’t ignore pain—they validate it. They show that even ancient prophets faced despair, and with God’s help, overcame it.
2 Nephi 2:25 teaches that “men are that they might have joy.” That means you were not meant to be lost in addiction. You were made to be free.
Scriptures for healing from addiction are scattered throughout the Book of Mormon, offering messages of hope, courage, and second chances—exactly what someone in detox, sober living, or early recovery needs.
What Is the LDS Addiction Recovery Program (ARP)?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints developed a Christ-centered, 12-step program based on the Alcoholics Anonymous model. But unlike traditional rehabs, the LDS ARP focuses specifically on gospel principles.
A 12-Step Program Through Christ
Each ARP step is supported by scriptures and teachings from the Book of Mormon. Here’s how it aligns with recovery:
- Step 1 – Honesty: “Admit that you, of yourself, are powerless to overcome your addictions…”
Supported by Ether 12:27, where weakness becomes strength through humility. - Step 2 – Hope: “Come to believe that the power of God can restore you…”
See Alma 36, a story of Alma’s dramatic and emotional repentance. - Step 3 – Trust in God: Surrender your will. This step is the foundation of faith-based rehab.
Meetings are free, anonymous, and often led by people in recovery themselves—peers who understand the struggle.
Fun Fact: ARP meetings are held across the U.S., including in Arizona, and are often hosted at local church buildings or online.
Who Should Attend?
- Anyone currently struggling with addiction
- Family members seeking to support a loved one
- People already in Mormon rehab or recently discharged from detox to rehab programs
- Those looking for a supportive community with shared spiritual values
Blending Faith and Treatment: Why Both Matter
Some people think they must choose between clinical therapy and religious healing—but that’s not true. Faith-based rehab combines the best of both.
According to a Harvard study published in 2020, over 70% of addiction recovery programs in the U.S. incorporate spirituality in some form—and participants in spiritual programs are more likely to achieve long-term sobriety.
Detox to Rehab: Where Spirituality Begins
Early in recovery, people need medical care and a safe place to detox. But what happens next is crucial: maintaining sobriety.
That’s where sober living and daily spiritual practices come in. When someone reads the Book of Mormon, attends meetings, and leans on community support, they start to replace shame with purpose.
A Typical Recovery Path
- Detox to Rehab – Medical supervision and initial stabilization
- Inpatient or Outpatient Treatment – Clinical therapy, medication management
- Faith-Based Support – ARP, church fellowship, prayer, scripture study
- Sober Living – Continued accountability, employment, service
- Ongoing Recovery – Sponsorship, scripture, helping others
Key Scriptures for Healing from Addiction
These scriptures offer specific comfort for those in recovery. Print them. Post them. Pray with them.
📖 Alma 36:3
“…whosoever shall put their trust in God shall be supported in their trials, and their troubles, and their afflictions…”
📖 Mosiah 7:33
“If ye will turn to the Lord with full purpose of heart… he will deliver you out of bondage.”
📖 Ether 12:27
“…if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness.”
These verses remind us: weakness is not failure. It’s a chance to be lifted.
Mormon Rehab and Family Healing
Addiction is not just a personal issue. It’s a family disease. The LDS Church recognizes this and offers separate ARP meetings for spouses, parents, and children.
Supporting a Loved One
- Use gentle language: Shame never heals. Scripture uplifts.
- Stay involved: Attend family ARP meetings.
- Encourage both spiritual and clinical help: They don’t cancel each other out.
Remember: Faith alone won’t fix addiction—but faith in action, paired with solid support, can rebuild lives.
Getting Started Today
If you’re wondering where to begin, here are some next steps:
- Find a Meeting: Visit ARP.LDS.org for a local or online meeting.
- Explore More Tools: Read more of our content on Detox to Rehab’s Faith-Based Recovery Hub.
- Talk to a Rehab Provider: Many facilities offer Christian or Mormon rehab programs that integrate scripture, prayer, and the 12 steps.
- Join a Sober Living House: These homes promote daily accountability and ongoing spiritual growth.
Hope Is Real
The road to recovery isn’t easy—but it is possible. Through the Book of Mormon and addiction recovery programs like ARP, lives are transformed every day. You are not alone. Healing is not just a dream—it’s a daily decision backed by action, community, and divine love.
No matter how far you’ve fallen, you can rise. Start today.
