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SAMHSA Radio News Line

Addiction in the Church Often Goes Unaddressed

Posted: August 6th, 2006, 5:00pm PDT

Enclosure: [download]

The following is about the need for churches to address the issue of addiction. The report features an actuality from Dr. Tom Johnson, associate director of the Center for the Study of Health, Religion, and Spirituality, at Indiana State University. The out cue is “I’m Bill Beard.” Suggested lead in 3…2…1…

(Beard Open):
The beneficial role that faith and spirituality play in programs designed to treat and promote recovery from substance-use disorders has long been acknowledged. When it comes to addressing addiction issues in the church, however, relatively few clergy speak directly about it. Doctor Thomas Johnson, associate director of the Center for the Study of Health, Religion, and Spirituality, at Indiana State University, says clergy know the issue of addiction is important; yet, it is often tip-toed around.

(Johnson):
“Even though a lot of pastors think it’s important, for example, maybe 74 percent or more—relatively few actually preach a sermon on the topic—or letting people know that it’s OK to talk about those sorts of conditions inside the walls of the church. So, it’s kind of like the old story of the elephant in the room that nobody wants to talk about: It’s there; we all, kind of, tip-toe around it.”

(Beard Close):
Experts say that increasing the availability of addiction training for faith leaders can help reduce the stigma and denial that often become barriers to treatment. For more information on how faith-and community-based organizations can help those with substance-use disorders get the treatment services they need, visit www.samhsa.gov. For the SAMHSA Newsline, I’m Bill Beard.

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