The Serenity Prayer and Rehabilitation

Why Do Drug Rehabs Use the Serenity Prayer?

Although many drug rehab centers offer a holistic (and at times religious) approach to their treatments and therapies – even those that don’t seem to be using one type of prayer in specific. Faith isn’t something that can be proved, but there’s no denying that it can be an effective way to encourage recovery from suffering and hardship, and that’s why more and more rehabilitation centers are introducing the Serenity Prayer to their programs.

What Is The Serenity Prayer

It was written in the early 20th century by Mr Reinhold Niebuhr – a famed theologian of American descent. He created the prayer with 3 intentions in mind, as detailed in each line of the verse itself.

The Intentions Of Serenity in Rehab

The first intention is to ask for the ability to accept. As many would imagine, acceptance can be the first challenge when it comes to identifying an addiction – in fact, it’s been reported that as many as 3 in 5 alcoholics struggle to acknowledge their dependency on the substance.

The second intention is to request courage, particularly when it comes to recognizing challenges, and whether they can be controlled or not. This can appeal to the emotional state of the addict as well as to their treatment, be it medical or holistic in nature.

Asking For Wisdom in Serenity

Lastly, the final line in the prayer asks for wisdom. This trait is often considered one that has to be earned over time, and possessing wisdom can often allow an individual to make the right choices in life.

In just three lines the prayer speaks volumes in a way that can appeal to an addict; both before they admit themselves to rehab, and whilst they are undergoing treatment.

Why Do Drug and Alcohol Rehab Clinics Use The Serenity Prayer?

Perhaps it’s the fact that the prayer is so wide-reaching, and can appeal to a variety of people experiencing different things during rehab that makes it so effective. Or maybe it has more to do with the way in which the text is spoken; taking the onus off of the sufferer, and allowing them to trust that fate has their best interests at heart.

Whatever the reason, many Christian and even non faith based rehab centers find themselves incorporating the serenity prayer within their group counselling sessions, as well as displaying the text around their facility. The main purpose is to remind the addicts that are present that with a little faith and guidance, they will be in a much better position to overcome their addiction, and go on to lead a healthier life.

And when paired with the medical support offered by rehabs, the potential to go on to a full recovery can be far more prominent, making this prayer an asset to any treatment program.