Substance abuse and drug overdose numbers are shattering national records. Researchers at the National Institute on Drug Abuse report a 30% increase in the United States since the COVID-19 pandemic began. For Catholics who struggle with addiction, and their loved ones, there is freedom in putting their trust in God, Jesus and the saints.

“I find it heartbreaking and very disturbing. It’s a perfect storm. People have desperation during the pandemic with being alone, and not being able to interact with other people. If they already are prone to some type of addiction, the isolations can just feed that,” said Cathy Cahill, OSF a Franciscan Sister of Allegany.

Sister Cathy is trained as an alcoholism and substance abuse counselor and has led retreats for people who utilize 12-Step Programs like Alcoholics Anonymous to overcome addiction.

“All those programs are based on the basic principles of, first admitting there is a problem, then trusting in God to help you overcome it, then helping others,” said Sister Cathy.

She says having faith in a power greater than yourself is the key to recovery.

“Left to our own devices, addiction is just too huge to overcome. If we're just using our own willpower, it might work for a while, but it doesn't work over the long haul,” said Sister Cathy.

To help women who struggle with addiction in the Tampa Bay Area, the Franciscan Sisters approved a proposal to transform an old convent building into a place where women can enhance their spiritual lives while in the process of recovery from the illness of addiction in themselves, family members or friends. The Sisters' House, named in honor of the forty-five Franciscan Sisters who lived there over the years, opened its doors in 2020 and seeks to create connections between women who have overcome addiction and those who are still struggling.

“Jesus wasn't a lone ranger. He had people around Him, and had people work with him. He sent them out two by two,” said Sister Cathy.

As people of faith, Sister Cathy says we are called to help one another, we are one Body in Christ and we do not stand alone.

“If you're concerned about someone just speak the truth of your concern to them. Pray for them and let them know you’re praying for them, and put them in God's hands,” says Sister Cathy.

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there is confidential help available for free, 24-hours-a-day, 365-days-a-year, through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Helpline at: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.