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The opioid crisis and addiction … offering hope and recovery
The diocesan moderator for spiritual formation offers the following reflections on the opioid crisis and the nature of addiction, and invites anyone affected by these things to attend a Sept. 6 Prayer and Healing Service in Jefferson City:
–Catholic Missourian
According to the American Psychiatric Association, addiction is a very complex condition, a brain disease that is manifested by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequence.
People with addiction (severe substance use disorder) have an intense focus on using a certain substance or substances, such as alcohol or drugs, to the point that it takes over their life. They keep using alcohol or a drug even when they know it will cause problems.
Yet, a number of effective treatments are available and people can recover from addiction and lead normal, productive lives.