Belief, Behavior, and Belonging: How Faith is Indispensable in Preventing and Recovering from Substance Abuse

The Opioid Epidemic and Faith-Based Responses in Southern Appalachia, USA: An Exploration of Factors for Successful Cross-Sector Collaboration

This study aimed to identify factors for successful cross-sector collaboration with faith-based responses to the opioid epidemic in southern Appalachia. In-depth interviews were conducted with representatives from organizations responding to the opioid epidemic (N = 25) and persons who have experienced opioid dependency (N = 11). Stakeholders perceived that collaboration is hindered by stigma, poor communication, and conflicting medical and spiritual approaches to opioid dependency. Collaborations are facilitated by cultivating compassion and trust, sharing information along relational lines, and discerning shared commitments while respecting different approaches. The study concludes with theoretical and practical implications for both religious leaders and potential cross-sector collaborators.

Coping Mechanisms Utilized by Individuals With Drug Addiction in Overcoming Challenges During the Recovery Process: A Qualitative Meta-synthesis

OBJECTIVES

Recovery from drug addiction often poses challenges for the recovering person. The coping mechanisms employed by these individuals to resist temptations and manage stress play a key role in the healing process. This study was conducted to explore the coping strategies or techniques that individuals with addiction use to handle stress and temptation while undergoing treatment.

METHODS

A qualitative meta-synthesis approach was utilized to critically evaluate relevant qualitative research. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines were used for article selection, with these standards applied to 4 academic databases: Scopus, PubMed, ProQuest, and CINAHL. The present review included studies published between 2014 and 2023, selected based on pre-established inclusion criteria. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Qualitative Studies Checklist. This review was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) under the registration number CRD42024497789.

RESULTS

The analysis of 13 qualifying qualitative articles revealed 5 major themes illustrating the coping mechanisms employed in the pursuit of recovery by individuals who use drugs. These themes include seeking social support, as well as psychological coping strategies, spiritual experiences, professional interventions, and the enhancement of awareness.

CONCLUSIONS

Among individuals with drug addiction, coping mechanisms are crucial for resisting stress and temptations throughout the recovery process. Healthcare professionals, as medical specialists, can establish more thorough and effective plans to support these patients on their path to recovery.

Association of mental health related quality of life and other factors with treatment seeking for substance use disorders: A comparison of SUDs rooted in legal, partially legal, and illegal substances

The association of subjective mental health-related quality of life (MHRQOL) and treatment use among people experiencing common substance use disorders (SUDs) is not known. Furthermore, the association of a given substance's legal status with treatment use has not been studied. This work aims determine the association of MHRQOL with SUD treatment use, and how substance legal status modulates this relationship. Our analysis used nationally-representative data from the NESARC-III database of those experiencing past-year SUDs (n = 5,808) to compare rates of treatment use and its correlates among three groups: those with illicit substance use disorders (ISUDs); those with partially legal substance use disorders, i.e., cannabis use disorder (CUD); and those with fully legal substance use disorders, i.e., alcohol use disorder (AUD). Survey-weighted multiple regression analysis was used to assess the association of MHRQOL with likelihood of treatment use among these three groups, both unadjusted and adjusted for sociodemographic, behavioral, and diagnostic factors. Adults with past-year ISUDs were significantly more likely to use treatment than those with CUD and AUD. Among those with ISUDs, MHRQOL had no significant association with likelihood of treatment use. Those with past-year CUD saw significant negative association of MHRQOL with treatment use in unadjusted analysis, but not after controlling for diagnostic and other behavioral health factors. Those with past-year AUD had significant negative association of MHRQOL with treatment use in both unadjusted and adjusted analysis. If legalization and decriminalization continue, there may be a greater need for effective public education and harm reduction services to address this changing SUD landscape.

Religion, Psychedelics, Risky Behavior, and Violence

Research has found that psychedelic use is associated with positive behavioral changes, however research has yet to explore the relationship between socio-cultural conditions on this relationship. This paper intends to fill this gap by testing the effects of religious participation and beliefs on the relationship between psychedelic use and behaviors. This study examines the relationship between Lifetime Classic Psychedelic Use (LCPU), different aspects of religion (such as salience and attendance), and the likelihood of committing a violent assault. The analysis uses pooled data from the National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) from 2015 to 2019, with a sample size of 282,768. Binary logistic regression models conducted in Stata 17 reveal that LCPU and religion (salience and influence) are independently associated with reduced violence. Additionally, two-way interactions indicate that the association between risky behavior and violence is smaller among individuals with high levels of religious salience. Furthermore, a three-way interaction suggests that the association between risky behavior and violence is smaller for those who have used psychedelics, with the largest effect observed among individuals with high religious salience. These results show that religious factors can influence the relationship between psychedelic use and behaviors, with both attendance and salience operating simultaneously.

Navigating drug use, cessation, and recovery: a retrospective case notes review among sexual minority men at a community-based service in Singapore

BACKGROUND

In Singapore, where drug use is a highly stigmatized and criminalized issue, there is limited understanding of the challenges faced by individuals, particularly sexual minority men, in their journey towards recovery from substance dependence or addiction. This qualitative study aimed to investigate the driving forces behind drug use, the factors contributing to drug cessation, and the elements influencing the recovery process.

METHODS

Data were extracted from clinical records provided by  The Greenhouse Community Services Limited between January 2020 to May 2022. These records encompassed information from four distinct forms: the intake assessment, progress notes, case closing summary, and the care plan review. Thematic analysis was employed to identify and categorize recurring themes within the data.

RESULTS

Data from beneficiaries (n = 125) were analyzed and yielded a series of themes related to facilitators of drug use, motivations to cease drug use, and managing one's ongoing recovery. Within the facilitators of drug use, two sub-themes were identified: (a) addressing trauma and triggers and (b) managing emotions. Additionally, managing one's recovery was marked by four significant sub-themes: (a) uncovering personal identities, (b) losing motivation and drive, (c) overcoming obstacles, and (d) preparing for aftercare.

CONCLUSIONS

The study contributes valuable insights into the dynamics of ongoing recovery management, offering potential avenues for interventions that could enhance support for individuals in their journey to overcome substance dependence. Enhancing psychoeducation and fostering peer support have the potential to facilitate the recovery process. Clearly, a holistic approach is needed to address these complex issues that cuts across our societies.

Using societal conditional regard to cope with drug use in the ultraorthodox community and the unintended consequences

Introduction

A developing theoretical framework for the investigation of tight cultures' reaction toward members who violate communal norms is societal conditional regard (SCR).

Methods

Using a qualitative interpretive approach, in the current study we investigated the way the Ultraorthodox Jewish community uses SCR to cope with substance use disorders (SUDs), which considered to be a norms violation in closed religious communities. We did so by drawing on in-depth interviews with 14 young men from the Ultraorthodox community in Israel who were diagnosed as having an SUD and were in recovery.

Results

(a) The community's socialization process, educating its members to lead a life that is the only right one; (b) The community's use of God as the one whose love and regard are conditional; (c) The SCR emotional and behavioral practices used by the community toward individuals who violate norms, and (d) How, paradoxically, the use of SCR may eventuate in the initiation of drug use, and within the community itself.

Discussion

Findings are discussed in the context of self-determination theory and SCR, and shed light on how tight cultures cope with the threat of deviation of communal norms. Implications for intervention and policy are outlined.

Attitudes of Black American Christian church leaders toward Opioid Use Disorder, overdoses, and harm reduction: a qualitative study

Introduction

Black American Christian church leaders are trusted community members and can be invaluable leaders and planners, listeners, and counselors for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) sufferers in the opioid overdose crisis disproportionately affecting the Black community. This qualitative study examines the extent to which the knowledge, attitudes, practices, and beliefs of Black American church leaders support medical and harm reduction interventions for people with OUD.

Methods

A semi-structured interview guide was used to conduct in-depth interviews of 30 Black Rhode Island church leaders recruited by convenience and snowball sampling.

Results

Thematic analysis of the interviews identified four themes: Church leaders are empathetic and knowledgeable, believe that hopelessness and inequity are OUD risk factors, are committed to helping people flourish beyond staying alive, and welcome collaborations between church and state.

Conclusion

Black American Christian church leaders are a critical resource in providing innovative and culturally sensitive strategies in the opioid overdose crisis affecting the Black American communities. As such, their views should be carefully considered in OUD policies, collaborations, and interventions in the Black American community.

Teaching a Canadian Experiential Course in Religion and Spirituality for Undergraduates in Addiction Counseling and Health Sciences: A Social Constructivist Framework

Religion and spirituality (RS) are integral to counseling and health but their incorporation into the curricula of these professions is still lacking. Limited literature is available on how to effectively teach such courses. This article presents a promising experiential, interactive model for an RS course designed for undergraduate students pursuing careers in addictions counseling, therapeutic recreation, and public health. An online course conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic adopted a social constructivist framework that encompassed four key components in its design and delivery: assessing prior knowledge, creating cognitive dissonance, applying new knowledge with feedback, reflecting on learning. Students' feedback in the course indicated their broadened understanding of the plurality of RS orientations and their acquisition of foundational skills with an increased confidence in bringing RS conversations into their practice. This article provides a conceptual and practical framework for educators to develop an RS course for a diverse representation of students and encourages further evaluation of the proposed model to assess its impact on learning outcomes.

Programming Provided by Religious Congregations in the United States to Address Mental Illness and Substance Use Disorder

Mental health conditions, including substance use disorders, are one of the most commonly occurring yet least commonly treated health ailments in the United States. Religious congregations serve as important providers of mental health services, as they can fill this gap with accessible care. This study provides an up-to-date accounting of mental health service provision by religious congregations, using a nationally representative survey of U.S. congregations collected in 2012 and 2018-19. Half of all congregations in the U.S. provided a program or service targeting mental illness or substance use disorder in 2018-19, and rates of provision increased among Christian congregations between 2012 and 2018-19.

Psychometric Evaluation of an Adapted Short-Form Spirituality Scale in a Sample of Predominantly White Adults in an Inpatient Substance Use Disorder Treatment Program

Spirituality is an important aspect of treatment and recovery for substance use disorders (SUDs), but ambiguities in measurement can make it difficult to incorporate as part of routine care. We evaluated the psychometric properties of an adapted short-form version of the Spirituality Scale (the Spirituality Scale-Short-Form; SS-SF) for use in SUD treatment settings. Participants were adult patients (N = 1,388; Mage = 41.23 years, SDage = 11.55; 68% male; 86% White) who entered a large, clinically mixed inpatient SUD treatment program. Factor analysis supported the two-dimensional structure, with factors representing Self-Discovery and Transcendent Connection. Tests of measurement invariance demonstrated that the scale was invariant across age and gender subgroups. The SS-SF exhibited convergent and concurrent validity via associations with participation in spiritual activities, hopefulness, life satisfaction, 12-step participation, and depressive symptoms. Finally, scores on the SS-SF were significantly higher at discharge compared to admission, demonstrating short-term sensitivity to change. These findings support use of the SS-SF as a concise, psychometrically sound measure of spirituality in the context of substance use treatment.

Cognitive Distortions Associated with Alcohol and Marijuana Use in Uruguayan Citizens

Background: Psychological distress (i.e., incipient symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression) may promote substance use through increased emission of cognitive distortions. These are automatic irrational thoughts that can promote distress, which in turn increases substance use. Aim: This study analyzed, in a sample of Uruguayan citizens, the unique contribution of cognitive distortions on the frequency and quantity of alcohol or marijuana use, over and above the contribution of psychological distress or the use of emotion regulation strategies. We also assessed whether these variables were associated with having initiated or resumed the use of a substance. Methods: A survey asked about alcohol and marijuana use, psychological distress, emotion regulation strategies, and cognitive distortions. The study comprised a convenience sample of 1132 participants (Mean age = 29.07 ± 8.19 years, 72.26% women). Separate hierarchical linear regression analyses were conducted on the frequency and quantity of alcohol or marijuana use, whereas a logistic regression was applied on having initiated or resumed the use of a substance. Results: Several cognitive distortions were significant predictors of frequency and quantity of alcohol consumption or frequency of marijuana use, over and above psychological distress. Differential emission of automatic thoughts was also associated, along with higher scores of psychological distress, with a significantly higher probability of having initiated the use of a new substance or having resumed the use of a substance. Conclusions: Cognitive distortions may promote alcohol and marijuana use. Interventions aimed at modifying these distortions should be considered to reduce the emission of these behaviors.

A Christian Faith-Based Facebook Intervention for Smoking Cessation in Rural Communities (FAITH-CORE): Protocol for a Community Participatory Development Study

BACKGROUND

Tobacco smoking remains the leading cause of preventable morbidity and mortality in the United States, with significant rural-urban disparities. Adults who live in rural areas of the United States have among the highest tobacco smoking rates in the nation and experience a higher prevalence of smoking-related deaths and deaths due to chronic diseases for which smoking is a causal risk factor. Barriers to accessing tobacco use cessation treatments are a major contributing factor to these disparities. Adults living in rural areas experience difficulty accessing tobacco cessation services due to geographical challenges, lack of insurance coverage, and lack of health care providers who treat tobacco use disorders. The use of digital technology could be a practical answer to these barriers.

OBJECTIVE

This report describes a protocol for a study whose main objectives are to develop and beta test an innovative intervention that uses a private, moderated Facebook group platform to deliver peer support and faith-based cessation messaging to enhance the reach and uptake of existing evidence-based smoking cessation treatment (EBCT) resources (eg, state quitline coaching programs) for rural adults who smoke.

METHODS

We will use the Integrated Theory of Health Behavior Change, surface or deep structure frameworks to guide intervention development, and the community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach to identify and engage with community stakeholders. The initial content library of moderator postings (videos and text or image postings) will be developed using existing EBCT material from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Tips from Former Smokers Campaign. The content library will feature topics related to quitting smoking, such as coping with cravings and withdrawal and using EBCTs with faith-based message integration (eg, Bible quotes). A community advisory board and a community engagement studio will provide feedback to refine the content library. We will also conduct a beta test of the intervention with 15 rural adults who smoke to assess the recruitment feasibility and preliminary intervention uptake such as engagement, ease of use, usefulness, and satisfaction to further refine the intervention based on participant feedback.

RESULTS

The result of this study will create an intervention prototype that will be used for a future randomized controlled trial.

CONCLUSIONS

Our CBPR project will create a prototype of a Facebook-delivered faith-based messaging and peer support intervention that may assist rural adults who smoke to use EBCT. This study is crucial in establishing a self-sufficient smoking cessation program for the rural community. The project is unique in using a moderated social media platform providing peer support and culturally relevant faith-based content to encourage adult people who smoke to seek treatment and quit smoking.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/52398.

Spiritual Awakening in 12-Step Recovery: Impact Among Residential Aftercare Residents

Spiritually-based interventions in the form of 12-step programs are frequently offered as a part of substance use treatment programs in the United States. Programs based in the 12 steps guarantee that by working their program, an individual will undergo a process of transformation labeled a spiritual awakening. However, the impact of this experience on recovery factors and treatment adherence is unclear. The current study investigated adult residents (n = 115) who experienced a spiritual awakening attributed to 12-step group affiliation during their stay at residential aftercare facilities for substance use disorder. Self-efficacy and hope were greater for individuals who experienced a spiritual awakening versus those persons who did not experience awakening. Awakening was associated with greater affiliation to AA and decreased negative exit from the facility. Results revealed the potential for an awakening to improve treatment behavior and outcomes in a residential environment, as well as benefit an individual's personal recovery resources. Further theoretical and clinical implications are discussed.

Religion and survival among European older adults

There are several pathways through which religion can affect longevity. Previous research, predominately from North America, has shown decreased mortality risk for participants that attended religious services. This study aims to examine the association between religion and all-cause mortality in a large sample of older European adults, comparing religious affiliations, and using prayer frequency as well as frequency of participation in a religious organisation as measures of religiousness. To this end, a total of 16,062 participants from the Survey of Health Ageing and Retirement in Europe were employed for a survival analysis (median follow-up 11.3 years; 3790 recorded deaths). Following a religion was negatively associated with mortality regardless of demographic and socioeconomic factors (HR = 0.81; 95% CI 0.74-0.89). Large differences in the median survival of participants from different religious affiliations can be mostly attributed to demographic and socioeconomic factors. Both frequency of prayer and religious participation exhibited a significant positive dose-response relationship with survival despite adjustments, although the results for religious participation were more profound. Changes on the religiosity levels of the European population will require additional research on the subject in the future.

Prevalence and Predictors of Substance Use Support Programming Among U.S. Religious Congregations

We conducted a cross-sectional secondary analysis of data from the 2012 National Congregation Study, a nationally representative survey of religious congregations in the United States ( N = 1,331). Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify congregational characteristics associated with providing substance use support programing. Nearly one-third (38%) of U.S. congregations indicated that they provided substance use support programming; approximately half (52%) of all congregational attendees were in a congregation that provided some type of substance use support. The internal factors associated with a congregation providing substance use programming include having members who are unemployed and younger, being conservative Protestant, engaging in the practice of speaking in tongues, and having the resources to support social services. The analysis also identifies external factors (i.e., assessing community needs and hosting social service speakers) as being associated with a congregation’s likelihood of providing substance use programming. Findings identify factors associated with congregations providing substance use support.

Patient-Concerned Other Dyads' 12-Step Involvement and Patients' Substance Use: A Latent Class Growth Model Analysis

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to inform clinical practice by identifying subgroups of patient-concerned other (CO) dyads. Patients with alcohol use disorders (AUDs) were characterized on Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) involvement and substance use together with COs' Al-Anon involvement. Predictors and recovery maintenance outcomes of subgroup membership were examined.

METHOD

Participants were 279 patient-CO dyads. Patients were in residential treatment for AUD. Parallel latent class growth model analysis characterized 12-step involvement and substance use at treatment entry and 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups.

RESULTS

Three classes were as follows: 38% Low AA/Low Al-Anon (patients' low AA and COs' low Al-Anon involvement, and patients' high-to-moderate substance use), 10% High AA/High Al-Anon (patients' high AA and COs' high Al-Anon involvement, and patients' moderate-to-low substance use), and 52% High AA/Low Al-Anon (patients' high AA and COs' low Al-Anon involvement, and patients' moderate-to-low substance use). At follow-up, the Low AA/Low Al-Anon classes' patients were less likely to have spirituality as recovery support, confidence about staying abstinent, and satisfaction with recovery progress. The High AA classes' COs had less concern about patients' drinking and scored higher on positive aspects of relationships with patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinicians should encourage patients' and COs' 12-step group involvement (12-step practices' engagement). Among patients treated for AUD, AA involvement was related to better outcomes, and to COs' lessened concern about the patients' drinking. COs' Al-Anon involvement was associated with having a more positive view of their relationship with the patient. That more than one third of dyads had low 12-step group involvement suggests that treatment programs may need to facilitate involvement in non-12-step mutual-help groups.

In between the lines of the narrative map: Phenomenological analysis of war rape victims in Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia

Research conducted in the last four decades on rape and other forms of sexual violence shows that they are not only the result of transgression behaviors of some people but have been used as strategic, systemic, and calculated tools of war, ethnic cleansing, and genocide. Examining the nature and effect of wartime rape and sexual violence based on their distinctive features, context, and historical background is essential for research and service providers. This paper explores the lived experiences of sexual violence and gang rape victims during the North Ethiopian war in Amhara Region, Ethiopia. Data were collected from three girls and women survivors using a trauma and socio-culturally informed phenomenological approach. The finding shows that participants experienced a broad and complex range of psychological, physiological, emotional, and relational suffering after the rape. The result also shed light on some risk factors such as lack of awareness of the effect of traumatic events, stigma related to rape, and lacks victim protective legislation risk their journey to healing. The paper further discussed individual and community mental health responses for victims of war rape in culturally responsive and resource-poor settings.

Religiosity and hazardous substance use: The moderating role of trauma-related shame

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Hazardous substance use is a major public health concern among individuals with a history of sexual victimization. Although increased religiosity has been known to serve as a protective factor against hazardous substance use, religious individuals with a history of sexual victimization may be at a greater risk for hazardous substance use due to difficulties reconciling sexual victimization with their religious beliefs. Individuals with greater trauma-related shame may engage in hazardous substance use as a means of coping with the traumatic event.

METHOD

The present study consisted of 614 participants (Mage  = 34.57, 50% women).

RESULTS

Results suggested that organizational, nonorganizational, and intrinsic religiosity were positively associated with hazardous alcohol use at higher, but not lower, levels of trauma-related shame. Organizational and intrinsic religiosity were positively associated with hazardous drug use at higher, but not lower, levels of trauma-related shame.

CONCLUSIONS AND SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE

This is the first study to examine the role of trauma-related shame in the relationship between religiosity and hazardous substance use. The findings underline the importance of targeting trauma-related shame in religious individuals with a history of sexual victimization.

Identification of the socio-cultural barriers of drug addiction treatment in Iran

Introduction

Socio-cultural norms can either be encouraging or a barrier to addiction treatment. More, rigorous research is needed on nonindigenous models in addiction treatment, to better understand the role of socio-cultural differences.

Methods

The present qualitative study is part of the project, "The Inclusive Assessment of the Barriers of Drug Addiction Treatment Services in Iran," which was conducted in Tehran from 2018 to 2021. The participants consisted of eight people who used drugs, seven individual family members of the people who used drugs participants, seven service providers, and four policymakers. A purposeful sampling method was used for the selection of the participants, and the process continued until reaching the theoretical saturation of data. Analysis used the Graneheim and Lundman methods, classifying primary codes, the sub-themes, and themes were classified according to the similarities and differences between primary codes.

Finding

The most important socio-cultural barriers to addiction treatment in Iran are: unrealistic expectations of the family and society from the people who use drugs, addiction stigma, mistrust between various components of the treatment system, perceptions that professional substance use disorder treatment is inefficient and low uptake of that treatment, the disturbed relational boundaries between the people who use drugs and their relatives, the interweaving of treatment and ethical and religious principles, low acceptance of maintenance treatments, treatment focusing on short-term outcomes, and presence of facilitating backgrounds of using drugs.

Conclusions

The Iranian socio-cultural characteristics play an important role in the addiction treatment of the people who use drugs, so it is necessary for treatment interventions to be sensitive to these characteristics.

Access to psychosocial support for church-going young people recovering from drug and substance abuse in Zimbabwe: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

The church and other religious-affiliated organizations have promising yet underexplored potential to provide social support services for young people recovering from substance abuse in communities where drug and substance rehabilitation services are limited. This study aimed to establish the barriers and facilitators of accessing psychosocial support, the role of the church, and strategies to promote access to psychosocial support for youths recovering from drug and substance abuse.

METHODS

This was a qualitative cross-sectional study, and semi-structured interviews of 18 church-going youths and three youth pastors were conducted in eastern Zimbabwe. Data were collected using recorded telephone interviews. Data were transcribed and analyzed using the thematic network analysis technique of producing basic themes, which build into organizing themes. Organizing themes produces one overarching global theme. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines for reporting on qualitative research were used in reporting the study findings.

RESULTS

The interviews produced the following basic themes under organizing theme barriers: stigma and discrimination, parental/guardian denial, radical religious beliefs, and negative role models. Under the organizing theme facilitators, the basic themes were acceptance, confidentiality, peer and parental support, and an organized support program. The church acted as the bridge between the barriers to access to services and support seeking through innovative, inclusive projects and activities, as well as a pillar of social support.

CONCLUSIONS

Acceptance of one's addiction problem is critical to initiate seeking psychosocial support. Confidentiality, support from trustworthy relationships, and the availability of a well-coordinated recovery program enable young people to seek support. We recommend formal training church-based counselors in the ethical aspects of psychotherapy to reduce the preconceived social stigma associated with drug and substance abuse.

Spirituality/Religion and Self-Harm Among Patients With Alcohol/Substance Use Versus Other Disorders

ABSTRACT

Spirituality/religion (S/R) is clinically relevant to recovery from alcohol use disorders (AUDs)/substance use disorders (SUDs) and also associated with less self-injury; however, the interplay of these factors has not been adequately evaluated. Participants (n = 1443) were culled from a larger study among psychiatric patients. We assessed for S/R using self-report measures, and medical records were reviewed for demographics, clinical diagnoses, psychiatric medications, and self-harm engagement. Self-harm engagement was significantly higher among patients without AUD/SUD. S/R distress was higher among participants with AUD/SUD, but S/R community activity and importance of religion were lower. Interest in discussing S/R in treatment did not significantly differ across patients. Religious affiliation, importance of religion, and belief in God were associated with less self-harm, but effects were not moderated by presence of AUD/SUD. S/R factors are associated with lower self-harm, irrespective of the presence or absence of AUD/SUD. In contrast with clinical lore, S/R may be equally salient to psychiatric patients with AUD/SUD versus other disorders.

Did Religious Freedom Exacerbate COVID-19? A Global Analysis

Did countries that became more repressive of religion during the COVID-19 pandemic, experience more COVID-19 cases and associated fatalities than countries that did not restrict religious freedom? As the pandemic raged across the world, many houses of worship defied governmental orders against public worship, leading many pundits, policy makers, and critics of religion to express concern that churches, mosques, synagogues, and other houses of worship would become incubators of COVID-19. In this view, religious freedom was seen as an obstacle to combatting the virus. In this article, we evaluate this proposition. We find that countries that maintained their levels of religious freedom throughout the pandemic were not more likely to witness higher rates of COVID-19 cases and deaths from COVID-19. The results are robust to a number of different model specifications.

A comprehensive overview of substance abuse amongst Syrian individuals in an addiction rehabilitation center

Objectives

This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of substance abuse amongst Syrian individuals in an addiction rehabilitation center.

Methods

This is a descriptive cross-sectional survey-based study, from patients receiving treatment in an addiction rehabilitation center in Damascus. Syria. The study was conducted over a period of nine months.

Results

A total of 82 participants were recruited, the majority of them were males (n = 78.95.1%). More than half of those investigated reported multi-level failure (n = 46, 56.1%) during their education. Most of the participants (n = 44, 53.7%) started to use drugs at a friend's home. The family was shown to play a positive role in stopping the initial drug taking trials at early stages (33/56, 58.9%). Again, friends' effect was the main reason for the return of abusing drugs (20/56, 35.7%). Sources of drugs were mainly from drug promoters for most of the participants (n = 58, 70.7%) followed by friends (n = 28, 34.1%). Participants revealed that taking drugs were mostly accompanied by additional habits such as cigarette smoking before using their drugs (n = 65, 79.3%), or drinking alcohol (57.3%). Surprisingly, participants believed that drug abuse does not lead to addiction (n = 52, 63.4%). The most common experienced feeling was depressed, desperate, or sad (n = 47, 57.3%), followed by anxiety and the desire to escape reality and resort to imaginations (n = 44, 53.7%).

Conclusions

The findings of this study indicate the need of policymakers to give more attention, in developing preventive strategies, to friends, as a main cause of addiction, in addition to the family influences on individual's drug abuse, addiction behaviors, and mindsets. Understanding the influencing factors could spot the light on the key to solve the addiction problem. A realist rehabilitation programs must be well designed and implemented as the level of individuals, institutions and communities to face this problematic addiction disaster.

A scoping review of the opioid epidemic among U.S. Immigrants: Implications for treatment practices

The purpose of this review was to identify knowledge gaps within the literature regarding the impact of opioid use disorder, specific to immigrants in the United States, by addressing the following questions: 1) What is presented in the literature about the impact of opioid use disorder (OUD) and the opioid epidemic on immigrants in the United States?; and 2) What role does culture play in the opioid use disorder experiences of immigrants in the United States? Nineteen research articles were uncovered that addressed immigrants in the U.S. and opioid use disorder. The following themes prevailed: 1) OUD comparisons, 2) OUD comorbidities, 3) disparate OUD treatment engagement, and 4) the role of country of origin. Limited review findings support the need for future research on the topic of opioid misuse among immigrants in the United States. The authors elaborated on additional issues that influence OUD rates and warrant further exploration. Matters related to the potential positive roles of religion and faith leaders, cultural perceptions and expectations about gender roles, immigration status, ethnically diverse needs among sub-groups of immigrants, the role of geographic location within the U.S., and the implications of COVID-19 on OUD among immigrants need to be addressed to alleviate the deleterious impact of opioid misuse among immigrants.

Psychoactive substance abuse among commercial bus drivers in Umuahia, Abia State, South-Eastern Nigeria: an uncontrolled "epidemic" with attendant road traffic crashes

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The unprecedented depletion of the productive workforce has been majorly attributed to road traffic crashes (RTCs). The attendant consequences of this depletion have been found to constitute a serious global public health challenge, with the use of psychoactive substances among drivers implicated in every three of five motor vehicle accidents. Hence, this study assessed the pattern and explored the determinants of substance abuse among commercial bus drivers in Umuahia, Abia State.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional design was used for the study. Four hundred commercial bus drivers were recruited from selected motor parks in Abia-state, using a multistage sampling technique from October to December 2020. A pretested, interviewer-administered questionnaire was administered to obtain socio-demographics and information on substance abuse. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 25; bivariate analysis was done using Chi-square. The level of significance was at 5%.

RESULTS

The mean age of the respondents was 40.03 ± 10.50 years. The proportion of respondents who had ever abused a psychoactive substance was 74.6%. The most commonly abused substances among drivers include alcohol (51%), cigarettes (27%), and alcoholic herbal mixtures (16%). The study participants had poor knowledge (54.5%) and poor perception (63.2%) about psychoactive substance abuse. Among the factors found to be significantly associated with substance abuse among respondents were ethnicity (p = 0.002), religion (p = 0.009) and monthly income (p = 0.013) of the respondents, poor knowledge (p < 0.001) and poor perception (p < 0.001). However, this study found religion (p = 0.031; OR = 5.469; CI = 1.170 to 25.555), knowledge (p < 0.001; OR = 4.21; CI = 2.201 to 8.287) and perception (p < 0.001; OR = 9.828; CI = 15.572 to 65.052) as factors that were associated with the higher likelihood of psychoactive substance abuse.

CONCLUSION

Religion, poor knowledge and perception were associated with the higher likelihood of psychoactive substance abuse among commercial bus drivers. Targeting commercial bus drivers for educational interventions and using religious leaders as conveyor belts may reduce the use of psychoactive substances among them.

Psychoactive Substance Use Disorder in HIV-Infected Adolescents in Botswana: A Comparison Between the Congenitally Infected and Behaviorally Infected Adolescents

Substance use is a major obstacle to preventing and managing HIV among adolescents, who account for 30% of new infections in many parts of the world, including Botswana. Unfortunately, there is a paucity of data on adolescent substance use, especially in the region. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the pattern of psychoactive substance use in adolescents living with HIV (ALWHIV). It also aimed to compare and explore the pattern of substance use disorders and associated factors between congenitally infected adolescents (CIAs) and behaviorally infected adolescents (BIAs). Six hundred and thirty-four ALWHIV were interviewed using a sociodemographic questionnaire, the WHO drug questionnaire, and DSM-5 criteria for substance use disorder. The participants' mean age (SD) was 17.69 (1.6) years, with a male predominance (n = 336, 53%), and the majority (n = 411, 64.8%) were CIAs. Alcohol was the most used substance among the participants, with 15.8% admitting to its current use. The BIAs were more likely to have SUD (χ² = 17.2, P < .01), use more than one substance (χ² = 20.3, P < .01), and more likely to use all psychoactive substances except for inhalants. In the CIAs, regular participation in religious activities was negatively associated with SUD (AOR = 0.36; 95% CI: 0.17-0.77), while struggling with HIV status acceptance was positively associated with SUD (AOR = 2.54; 95% CI: 1.15-5.61) in the BIAs. This study showed a huge burden and similar pattern of substance use disorders among the ALWHIV in Botswana, as reported elsewhere. It also identified the dissimilarities between the BIAs and CIAs regarding substance-related issues and suggested the need for differentiated care.

Experiences of Parents with Opioid Use Disorder during Their Attempts to Seek Treatment: A Qualitative Analysis

In the U.S., 12.3% of children live with at least one parent who has a substance use disorder. Prior research has shown that men are more likely to seek treatment than women and that the barriers are different; however, there is limited research focusing specifically on opioid use disorder (OUD). We sought to understand the barriers and motivators for parents with OUD. We conducted a qualitative study by interviewing parents with OUD who were part of an outpatient treatment program. Interviews followed a semi-structured format with questions on access to and motivation for treatment. The interviews were recorded and transcribed using OpenAI software. Transcripts were coded by two separate reviewers and then analyzed for themes using Atlas.ti. We interviewed 14 individuals; 3 were men, and 3 of the women identified as LGBTQ+. The participants ranged in age from 27 to 54 years old. All participants had a least one child. Gender differences existed. Mothers reported experiencing more barriers-notably, a lack of childcare, shame, and guilt-while fathers reported higher levels of support from family. Both mothers and fathers identified their children as a motivation for recovery, albeit in differing ways. Mothers and fathers with OUD experience different barriers to treatment and also rely on different resources. Prior efforts to increase access to treatment for parents have focused on physical barriers; however, our research supports the need for expanded treatment services for families and efforts to address the stigma of substance abuse disorder, but more efforts are also needed to address stigma.

"They didn't have any idea what drugs were": Pathways to substance use disorders among ultraorthodox Jewish males

BACKGROUND

Substance use disorders (SUDs) are a worldwide phenomenon with very negative consequences, and belonging to a religious community is considered to be a protective factor against them. The pathways to SUDs have been investigated in many studies with the aim of helping us better understand this phenomenon and promoting effective intervention programs to prevent and manage it. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding SUDs in closed religious communities such as the Ultraorthodox Jewish community.

METHOD

To fill this gap, in the current study we investigated the pathways to SUDs among 14 young men from the Ultraorthodox Jewish community in Israel who were diagnosed as having an SUD in the past and who had been in sustained remission for at least a year. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews consisting of open-ended questions were conducted.

RESULTS

The findings highlighted two main themes: (a) A lack of support and attention from various systems, where participants reported sense of otherness or lack of belonging to family, educational institutions and community; a lack of responsiveness from those systems; a sense of rejection or exclusion; and a longing for belonging, and (b) A light in the darkness - someone who cares, in which the interviewees received some assistance, either in the period before or during drug use.

CONCLUSION

Findings point to the unique experience of Ultraorthodox young men in their addiction process and shed light on the failure of the abovementioned systems to help these young men cope. Findings are discussed in the context of the theoretical perspectives of social capital theory and exclusion. Implications for intervention and policy are outlined.

Pattern of substance use and substance use disorder in adolescent learners at public secondary schools in Gaborone, Botswana

Introduction

Substance use amongst adolescents remains a global public health challenge. The potential negative health outcomes of substance use suggest the need to understand the pattern of use and the associated factors among adolescents. This study aimed to describe the prevalence of substance use, SUDs, and PD and the associated factors in adolescent learners at public schools in Gaborone, Botswana.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at 13 public secondary schools in Gaborone among 742 students. Assessment tools included the World Health Organization drug questionnaire, DSM-5 interview for SUD, and the General Health Questionnaire-12.

Results

The mean age (SD) of the participants was 15.26 (1.57) years, and there were more females (55.5%). Over two-fifths (44.6%) of learners reported psychoactive substance use in the past 12 months, and 31.5% meeting DSM 5 criteria for a SUD. Alcohol was the most used psychoactive substance (25.1%). Male gender (AOR = 1.94; 95% CI: 1.26–2.995), having a friend (AOR = 4.27; 95% CI: 2.68–6.78), or father (AOR = 1.87; 95% CI: 1.14–3.04), who uses substance, and higher levels of PD (AOR = 1.09; 95% CI: 1.03–1.17) remained significantly associated with SUD. Regular participation in religious activities negatively correlated with SUD (AOR = 0.61; 95% CI: 0.38–0.96).

Conclusion

The high prevalence of substance use and SUDs among in-school adolescents is concerning. Substance use programs need to include family-focused and religious-based therapy and youth empowerment in developing positive peer relationships. Also, they should be integrated with mental health screening to assess comorbid PD.

Parent-child Relations, Religiousness, and Adolescent Substance Use Disorders

Research has shown that parent-child relationships and religiousness are negatively associated with substance use among adolescents, but few studies have addressed their relationship with substance use disorders (SUDs). This study explored whether high quality parent-child relations are negatively associated with the risk of an SUD among adolescents, especially when religiousness is high. The data used to assess this inquiry were from 4 years (2016–2019) of the U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). SUDs in the past year were based on a set of questions consistent with criteria enumerated in the DSM-IV. Latent measures of parent-child relations and religiousness were also constructed. The results of an augmented inverse probability weighting (AIPW) model furnished empirical evidence in support of the notion that the lowest risk of an SUD occurred among those reporting high quality parent-child relations and high religiousness, even after adjusting for a substantial number of selection factors.

Healthcare Providers' Perceptions about the Role of Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy Services in Substance Use Outpatient Treatment

Addressing patients' religion and spirituality (R/S) needs has been associated with positive health outcomes. However, despite receiving extensive training in spiritual assessment and care, chaplaincy services are primarily confined to inpatient settings, with few studies occurring in outpatient settings. The study sought to understand mental health providers' views about what shaped provider and patient motivation to engage in R/S discussions and seek referrals to chaplaincy services. We conducted five one-hour focus group sessions with a total of 38 staff members and thematically analyzed the resulting session and field notes. We identified four themes concerning provider knowledge and attitudes about R/S and chaplaincy services: Staff Information Needs, Staff Motivation to Discuss R/S and Refer, Patient Motivation to Use Chaplaincy Services, and Chaplain Accessibility. The study findings suggest that providers in outpatient substance use treatment clinics in the Veterans Health Administration are receptive to learning about R/S care and the possibility of expanding chaplaincy services. However, staff have misconceptions about the roles and responsibilities of chaplains. Attitudes about and experiences with R/S discussions varied. Trust and confidence in the benefits of chaplaincy services may be improved among both providers and patients by increasing chaplains' accessibility and visibility within these outpatient settings.

Associations between classic psychedelics and nicotine dependence in a nationally representative sample

Tobacco use is the single largest cause of preventable death worldwide, but none of the established treatments aimed at smoking cessation work for a majority of smokers. As such, there is an urgent need for interventions capable of reliably treating nicotine addiction. The use of classic psychedelics has been associated with lower odds of many forms of substance dependence. Here we tested whether lifetime use of classic psychedelics (tryptamine, lysergamide, and phenethylamine) is associated with lower odds of current nicotine dependence. We tested these associations in a sample of 214,505 adult participants in the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (2015–2019) using multivariable logistic regression models. Lifetime psilocybin use was associated with reduced odds of odds of current nicotine dependence (aOR 0.87–0.93). Lifetime use of peyote and mescaline also conferred reduced odds of multiple subdomains of a main nicotine dependence measure (Nicotine Dependence Syndrome Scale [NDSS]) (aOR 0.79–0.91). Conversely, lifetime use of LSD was associated with increased odds of nicotine dependence (aOR 1.17–1.24). Psilocybin, mescaline, and peyote use are associated with lowered odds of nicotine dependence. Experimental studies are needed to establish whether these associations are causal. These results make the case for further research into the efficacy of both tryptamine and phenethylamine psychedelics in promoting smoking cessation.

Self-perceived substance and behavioral addictions among Jewish Israeli adolescents during the COVID-19 Pandemic

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Overall rates found in self-perceived substance and behavioral addictions among Israeli adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Differences found in self-perceived substance and behavioral addictions by age, biological sex, religiosity, immigration status, and socioeconomic status.

This study examined self-perceived substance and behavioral addictions among Israeli adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic across different sociodemographic categories. The sample comprised 2,074 adolescents (40% males, 60% females) aged 12–19 years who completed the survey anonymously and with parental consent. We examined what is the prevalence of self-perceived substance and behavioral addictions in this population in the COVID-19 pandemic context. Participants reported self-perceived addictions to social networks (70%), shopping (46%), binge eating (34%), gaming (30%), sex-related behavior (15%), psychoactive substance (31%, including alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, and/or cocaine), and gambling (3%). Moreover, differences were found to be directly related to age, biological sex, religiosity, socioeconomic status, and immigration status. From a lay epidemiological perspective, the current research expands our knowledge about self-perceived addiction among adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering better understanding of the likelihood probability factors for self-perceived addiction among adolescents and its related negative outcomes, including increased risk factors for later adult life.

Associations between classic psychedelics and opioid use disorder in a nationally-representative U.S. adult sample

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a major source of morbidity and mortality in the U.S. and there is a pressing need to identify additional treatments for the disorder. Classic psychedelics (psilocybin, peyote, mescaline, LSD) have been linked to the alleviation of various substance use disorders and may hold promise as potential treatments for OUD. The aim of this study was to assess whether the aforementioned classic psychedelic substances conferred lowered odds of OUD. Furthermore, this study aimed to replicate and extend findings from Pisano et al. (2017) who found classic psychedelic use to be linked to lowered odds of OUD in a nationally representative sample. We used recent data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (2015–2019) (N = 214,505) and multivariable logistic regression to test whether lifetime use (yes/no) of classic psychedelics was associated with lowered odds of OUD. Lifetime psilocybin use was associated with lowered odds of OUD (aOR: 0.70; 95% CI [0.60, 0.83]). No other substances, including other classic psychedelics, were associated with lowered odds of OUD. Additionally, sensitivity analyses revealed psilocybin use to be associated with lowered odds of seven of the 11 DSM-IV criteria for OUD (aOR range: 0.66–0.83). Future clinical trials and longitudinal studies are needed to determine whether these associations are causal.

The Overdose Crisis and Using Alone: Perspectives of People Who Use Drugs in Rural and Semi-Urban Areas of British Columbia

Background: A significant rise in the rate of overdose deaths in British Columbia (BC), driven by fentanyl contamination of the illicit drug supply, led to the declaration of a public health emergency in 2016. Those at greatest risk of death are people who use alone. This community-based participatory action research study based in the Fraser East region of BC study aimed to overview underlying factors that contribute to unwitnessed overdoses in semi-urban and rural settings. Methods: This descriptive study used a community-based participatory action research model with peer research associates (PRAs) involved at various research stages. In total, 22 interviews were conducted with participants aged 19 and over who used illicit drugs in the Fraser East since the start of the public health emergency in 2016. A collaborative data analysis approach was taken for data interpretation, and content analysis was performed to explore themes surrounding using alone. Results: Among people who use drugs (PWUD), using alone was found to be influenced by (a) the availability of drugs and personal funds, (b) personal safety, (c) stigma and shame, (d) protecting privacy, (e) mental health conditions and addiction, and (f) the lack of engagement with harm reduction services. At times, using alone was due to unforeseen, episode-specific situations. Conclusion: A multi-dimentional and context-specific approach is needed in overdose prevention and response for people who use drugs alone. There is need for enhanced approaches that address or include support services for families to reduce stigma and isolation of those at risk of an overdose.

Positive and negative religiousness and search for meaning: Impact on treatment of substance abuse after 6 months

BACKGROUND

Religiousness and meaning in life are protective factors against addiction. Understanding this relationship may help to improve treatment. The aim of the current study was to assess the associations of positive and negative religiousness and search for meaning with treatment outcome, for patients with substance disorder (SUD).

METHOD

The sample consisted of 115 participants attending a Christian drug addiction treatment center in the Netherlands. The study had a longitudinal design in which associations of positive/negative religiousness and search for meaning at baseline (T0) with treatment outcome after six months (T1) were assessed by means of regression analyses. Treatment outcome was measured by clinical dysfunction and the degree of addiction. Instruments used were the ROM (Routine Outcome Monitoring) Meaning and Religious Faith, the Outcome Questionnaire (OQ-45) and the Measurements in the Addictions for Triage and Evaluations (MATE-1).

RESULTS

A high degree of positive religiousness at T0 was associated with less addiction at T1 (p < .01). A high degree of negative religiousness at T0 was related to more clinical dysfunction at T1 (p = <0.05). A higher search for meaning at T0 predicted a higher level of addiction at T1 (p = <0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Positive religiousness is associated with less, whereas search for meaning is associated with more addiction after six months. Negative religiousness is not associated with addiction, but with clinical dysfunction. Health professionals are recommended to assess these factors at the start of treatment and to consider possibilities to integrate them into treatment.

Faith Communities' Improvements in Readiness to Engage in Addictions Resilience and Recovery Support Programming

Spirituality and religion are well-documented components of prevention, treatment and recovery of substance use disorders. Faith communities are in a distinct position to support recovery and resilience regarding substance use disorders-not only in times of crisis, but every day. We conducted an exploratory study of congregational (i.e., organizational) "levers" that can drive change readiness in implementing recovery and resilience programming for substance use disorders within faith communities. Findings point to enhanced effectiveness post-intervention and the importance of developing awareness of resources to help with someone who has an alcohol or other drug problem.

Multi-Substance Use Behaviors: Prevalence and Correlates of Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug (ATOD) Use among University Students in Finland

Virtually no studies appraised the co-use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug (ATOD) among Finn undergraduates. We assessed the associations between sociodemographic, health, academic, policy, and lifestyle characteristics (independent variables); and individual, multiple and increasing ATOD use (dependent variables) using regression analyses. Data were collected by online questionnaire at the University of Turku, Finland (1177 students). Roughly 22% of the sample smoked, 21% ever used illicit drug/s, 41% were high frequency drinkers, and 31.4%, 16.3%, and 6.7% reported 1, 2, or 3 ATOD behaviors respectively. Individual ATOD use was significantly positively associated with the use of the other two substances [adjusted odds ratio (Adj OR range 1.893-3.311)]. Multiple ATOD use was negatively associated with being single (p = 0.021) or agreeing with total smoking or alcohol ban policy on campus (p < 0.0001 for each); but positively associated with not living with parents (p = 0.004). Increasing ATOD behaviors were significantly less likely among those agreeing with total smoking or alcohol ban policy on campus (p range 0.024 to <0.0001). Demographics significant to either individual, multiple, or increasing ATOD use included males, being single, not living with their parents during semesters, and to some extent, religiosity. Age, depressive symptoms, perceived stress, self-rated health, health awareness, income sufficiency, and academic variables were not associated with individual, multiple, or increasing ATOD use. Education and prevention efforts need to reinforce abstinence from ATOD, highlight their harmful outcomes, and target risk groups highlighted above. University strategies should be part of the wider country-wide successful ATOD control policies.

The Effect of Baseline Patterns of Spiritual Coping, Forgiveness, and Gratitude on the Completion of an Alcohol Addiction Treatment Program

The purpose of this study was to identify distinct profiles of persons beginning alcohol addiction therapy with similar baseline configurations of spiritual coping, forgiveness, and gratitude. The associations between latent profile membership and the completion of therapy were also examined. The sample was composed of 358 alcohol-dependent persons receiving an outpatient treatment program. The Spiritual Coping Questionnaire, the Forgiveness Scale, and the Gratitude Questionnaire were used to assess the baseline levels of spirituality-related variables. Using latent profile analysis, five profiles were identified: (1) both moderately positive and negative dimensions of spirituality (33.2%), (2) moderately positive dimensions of spirituality (21.0%), (3) predominantly negative dimensions of spirituality (20.2%), (4) mixed dimensions of spirituality with the lowest positive religious coping (14.0%), and (5) highly positive dimensions of spirituality (11.6%). Notably, the latent profiles differed in terms of the treatment completion rates. The results suggest the need to carry out a multidimensional assessment of spiritual functioning of persons beginning alcohol addiction therapy to provide treatment that is adjusted to patients' spiritual potential and deficits.

Exploring the Roles of Daily Spiritual Experiences, Self-Efficacy, and Gender in Shopping Addiction: A Moderated Mediation Model

Although spirituality has been considered a protective factor against shopping addiction, the mechanisms involved in this relationship are still poorly recognized. The present study aims to test the association of daily spiritual experiences, self-efficacy, and gender with shopping addiction. The sample consisted of 430 young adults (275 women and 155 men), with a mean age of 20.44 (SD = 1.70). The Daily Spiritual Experiences Scale, the General Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Bergen Shopping Addiction Scale were used to measure the study variables. The results showed that: (1) Daily spiritual experiences had a direct negative effect on shopping addiction; (2) daily spiritual experiences were positively related to self-efficacy, thought the effect was moderated by gender; (3) self-efficacy negatively correlated with a shopping addiction; and (4) the indirect effect of daily spiritual experiences on shopping addiction through self-efficacy was significant for women but insignificant for men. The findings confirm that spirituality protects young adults against developing a shopping addiction. They also suggest that when introducing spiritual issues into shopping addiction prevention or treatment programs, the gender-specific effects of spirituality on shopping addiction via self-efficacy should be considered to adequately utilize young women’s and men’s spiritual resources.