Substance Use Disorder

Substance use disorders are complex conditions that are acquired in a variety of ways. They are not the result of a moral failing and often require comprehensive medical treatment to prevent relapse and aid in recovery. Substances such as drugs and alcohol change how the brain functions over time and significantly affect mental health, relationships, and one’s career. Alcohol, tobacco and cannabis use disorders are some of the most common forms of substance use disorder.

Substance use disorder usually progresses in stages. It begins with experimental or prescription use, with someone trying a substance once or taking a medication as prescribed. It can progress to occasional use, where a person uses a substance more frequently, or takes a medication not as prescribed. This in turn can progress to disordered use of the substance daily or even multiple times a day. Treatment often involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Substance use disorder can be life-threatening without treatment.

Support from one’s church community can be immensely helpful in a person’s recovery and in breaking down the stigma of substance use disorder. Twelve-step support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous can also be incredibly helpful in a person’s effort to prevent relapse.

Tips for Supporting People with Substance Use Disorder

For Congregations

• Consider hosting a training for Narcan (naloxone) and having Narcan available in your church building. Many churches have a “Narcan Box” on their property to freely distribute it to those at risk of opioid overdose. Laws vary by state, so make sure to check local and state ordinances if your church is interested in this type of ministry.
• Host an Alcoholics Anonymous group or other 12-step group in your church.
• Plan a service dedicated to substance use prevention during national substance abuse prevention month in October. Talking about substance use in church helps to destigmatize the illness and encourages people to seek help.
• Talk to your youth about substance use disorder and managing stress in healthy ways.
• Create a safe space for people to share who have or are at risk of substance use disorder.

For Individuals

• Seek medical advice about substance use. Substances can interfere with other mental and physical health conditions, so it is important for those with other disabilities to consider how their substance use could be impacting their other areas of functioning. Additionally, there are health risks when detoxing from substances (particularly alcohol and opioids) that could be fatal, so it is important to have medical guidance when seeking sobriety.
• If someone in the congregation is in treatment for substance use disorder, ask if they would like a visit.
• If you know a caregiver for someone with substance use disorder, check in with them often. Offer to bring a meal or run errands.
• Avoid using stigmatizing language. Instead of referring to someone as an addict, junkie, or alcoholic, use descriptors such as “person with a substance use disorder” or “person in recovery.”

Resources

• Cleveland Clinic Fact Sheet
• United Methodist Church Board of Church and Society
• Renaissance Ranch Tips for Churches