According to the Attorney General’s 2016 Comprehensive Status and Trends Report for the state of North Dakota, the most alarming statistics stem from Methamphetamine and Heroin usage.  

The report states that in the past five years, heroin and methamphetamine related drug violations have skyrocketed.  Methamphetamine violations have more than quintupled, from 246 in 2010 to 1,633 in 2015.  Heroin violations increased from 4 to 177, a 4,300% increase.

The summer of 2016 saw community coalitions formed across the state with local, state and national leaders coming together to address this growing drug crisis.  North Dakota Adult and Teen challenge had the privilege to participate in these coalitions.  U.S. Attorney Chris Myers challenged clergy and faith communities to help in the battle as they are “uniquely qualified to assist because for some people fighting addiction, affiliation with a congregation may be the only family or support structure in their lives.”

The cost of substance abuse is staggering.  In ND alone healthcare costs for opioid abusers top 33 Million Dollars.  Dialysis for one heroin user who develops heroin nephropathy will cost $50,000 per year.  Other major health issues from drug abuse include HIV, hepatitis c, cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, kidney failure, stroke and mental health conditions.  The National Institute on Drug Abuse released sobering findings regarding the toll addiction is taking on individuals.  They report that there are more deaths, illnesses and disabilities from substance abuse than from any other preventable health condition. Today, one in four deaths is attributable to alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drug use. (Dec. 2012)

North Dakota Adult & Teen challenge is uniquely qualified and ready to meet these challenges.  For the past 13 years, NDTC has been helping individuals reclaim their lives and learn to live a successful life of sobriety.