by Steven Norris
The epidemic of addiction has wreaked untold havoc on individuals and families throughout our community, nation, and world. According to the U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), one in every six Americans (16.8%) aged 12 and older experienced a substance use disorder in 2024. For the past two years, I have been studying the nature of addiction as part of my doctoral work with Fuller Theological Seminary.
I am, by no means, an expert on addiction or addiction treatment. My expertise is in the area of faith and ministry within the church. However, I have invested significant time researching the intersection of faith, spirituality, addiction, and recovery. Research shows that the most effective means of treating and overcoming addiction is through holistic practices that meet the needs of mind, body, heart, and soul. Therefore, the church has a role to play in that endeavor.
This past Sunday, I presented my congregation with an introduction to some of that research. In the few days since, I have been humbled by the way members of our community have opened up to me with their stories. I’ve heard story upon story of spouses, siblings, parents, children, and friends who have been profoundly impacted by the grip of addiction.
As I listened, it reinforced my belief that the cliché is true: “everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.” If the one-in-six statistic is true, there are 10,000+ citizens of Spalding County alone that are dealing with some form of substance use disorder. How many friends, neighbors, acquaintances, and co-workers are secretly struggling but are afraid to speak up? Stop and think about it the next you allow your eyes to gaze across a busy restaurant or stand at the back of the checkout line at the local grocery store. The next time you are sitting at a red light on Taylor St. or Hill St., take a moment to notice the cars around you. How many folks are facing battles that we know nothing about?
It is one thing to recognize a problem and another to do something productive about it. I suggest that we start with prayer. Take time to pray for God’s strength to be manifest to those who struggle. Pray that chains may be broken for those who are still caught in the bondage of addiction. Pray for understanding and compassion that we might help overcome the stigma and embarrassment faced by those who suffer. Pray that people of faith may be agents of God’s grace and love.
Another thing that we can do is to begin to tell our stories. Addiction thrives in isolation and secrecy, but honesty and vulnerability disarm the beast. The more we can tell our stories, the better we can be community to one another. The better we exhibit true community, the stronger we are. Take a chance. Share your story. You may be surprised by the way your courage invites others to do the same.