Does the Bible forbid medical treatment for addiction?

No. The Bible acknowledges: “Healthy people do not need a physician, but those who are ill do.” (Matthew 9:12) Likewise, the U.S. National Institute on Drug Abuse says: “Drug addiction is a complex disease, and quitting usually takes more than good intentions or a strong will.” Of course, the help that God provides is far stronger than anyone’s willpower. Still, many who have broken free from substance addiction by following the Bible’s counsel also needed the help of medical treatment.c For instance, a man named Allen recalls: “When I was giving up alcohol, the physical pain of withdrawal was tremendous. That’s when I realized that I needed medical treatment in addition to the spiritual help I was getting.”