The Relationship Between Spirituality and Risky Alcohol and Drug Use: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis of Longitudinal Research - Summary - MDSpire

The Relationship Between Spirituality and Risky Alcohol and Drug Use: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis of Longitudinal Research

  • By

  • Howard K. Koh

  • Donald E. Frederick

  • Tracy A. Balboni

  • Samantha M. O’Reilly

  • John F. Kelly

  • Keith Humphreys

  • Michael Botticelli

  • Maya B. Mathur

  • Constantine S. Psimopoulos

  • Katelyn N. G. Long

  • Tyler J. VanderWeele

  • April 1, 2026

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To quantify the longitudinal associations between spirituality and harmful or hazardous alcohol and other drug (AOD) use, focusing on both prevention and recovery outcomes.

Key Findings:
  • Spirituality, particularly through community involvement, is associated with reduced AOD use, suggesting a protective effect.
  • Regular attendance at religious services shows significant preventive effects against AOD use.
  • The meta-analysis provides evidence for spirituality as a potential avenue for AOD use prevention and recovery, highlighting its role in fostering resilience.
Interpretation:

The findings suggest that integrating spirituality into prevention and treatment strategies may enhance outcomes for individuals at risk of AOD misuse, potentially leading to more effective interventions.

Limitations:
  • The analysis may not capture all studies related to spirituality as defined by Puchalski, particularly those with alternative operationalizations.
  • Potential unmeasured confounding factors, such as socioeconomic status or mental health conditions, could influence results.
Conclusion:

This meta-analysis highlights the importance of spirituality in addressing AOD use and suggests further exploration of its role in prevention and recovery efforts.

Original Source(s)

The Relationship Between Spirituality and Risky Alcohol and Drug Use: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis of Longitudinal Research

  • by Howard K. Koh, Donald E. Frederick, Tracy A. Balboni, Samantha M. O’Reilly, John F. Kelly, Keith Humphreys, Michael Botticelli, Maya B. Mathur, Constantine S. Psimopoulos, Katelyn N. G. Long, Tyler J. VanderWeele

  • April 1, 2026

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