Substance use disorder (SUD) is a diagnosable medical condition that has the potential to ruin the lives of those affected. The American Psychiatric Association identifies SUD as a mental health condition (or disorder) in which someone has a problematic pattern of substance use - characterized by significant changes in their cognition, emotional regulation, or behavior - leading to an inability to control substance use, despite the substantial harm and negative consequences to the individual and others.

In all four gospels, Jesus went from town to town, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing the sick. Substance use disorder is an illness that claims millions of lives each year. We believe Jesus wants to heal those suffering from SUD.

People with SUD experience an overwhelmingly intense focus on using a specific substance to the point where their ability to function in day-to-day life becomes impaired. The substance use causes physical and psychological problems, as well as interpersonal problems with family, friends, and at work. Even when they are aware of these problems in their lives, they are powerless to stop. 

In the 4th chapter of Luke, Jesus quotes the prophet, Isaiah, saying, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed. Substance use disorder is oppression.”

Repeated substance use can change how the brain functions, distorting thinking that affects behavior. Physiological changes in the brain cause changes in personality. Brain imaging show changes in the areas of the brain that relate to judgment, decision-making, learning, memory, and behavioral control. Severe, unceasing cravings make stopping nearly impossible - and, stopping use can lead to physical withdrawal.

Substance use disorder is treatable. At Gather, we employ low-barrier harm reduction efforts as a means to seeing Jesus heal the sick. Through the work at the Meds First medication-assisted treatment center, our weekly Syringe Services Program, and our Contingency Management Program, we are seeing people healed and restored to community.