Spirituality's role in recovery

In what ways might severe substance use disorder mimic renunciation--which is, in some traditions, an expression of spirituality? How can a focus on transcendental topics help people with addiction put their substance use disorder into remission? Dr. Swartz and Dr. Gonzalez discuss the role of chanting and the use of various mantras in treating substance use disorder. Can a person's "first high" (first time experiencing the game-changing effects of a substance) be seen as a type of spiritual epiphany, which recovery might need to try and counter with an epiphany from a healthier source? How group therapy--by creating community and helping people re-establish connections with other people--can reduce a person's dependence on drugs and alcohol.