Addiction is the repetitive process of habitually satisfying cravings to avoid, change, or control the seemingly unbearable conditions of the present moment. Recovery is a process of healing the underlying conditions that lead to addiction. There are several online Buddhist Recovery programs out there…I will link to those at the end of this section.
Eight Step Recovery is an alternative recovery program to the 12-step program of Alcoholic Anonymous. It uses Buddhist teachings to overcome addiction. Eight Step Recovery, cofounded by Dr, Valerie Mason-John M.A (hon.doc) and Dr. Paramabandhu Groves Ph.D., is a set of mindfulness teachings outlining a suggested course of action for recovery from addiction, stinking thinking, negative mental states, and compulsive and obsessive behaviors.
Step 1 Accepting that this human life will bring suffering
Step 2 Seeing how we create extra suffering in our lives
Step 3 Recognizing impermanence shows us that our suffering can end
Step 4 Being willing to step onto the path of recovery, and discover freedom
Step 5 Transforming our speech, actions, and livelihood
Step 6 Placing positive values at the center of our lives
Step 7 Making every effort to stay on the path of recovery
Step 8 Helping others to share the benefits I have gained
A very good book is The Tao of Sobriety
