Healing together: Surviving substance use disorder with the church in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Today, substance use disorder is a pandemic in Zimbabwe, mostly because of political and economic crises and consequential societal despair. Several clinical and sociological studies with a major focus on saving youth from the scourge have been published. However, little attention has been given to the possible contribution of spirituality to serving people of all ages. Despite the availability of voluminous clinical and sociological interventions, substance use disorder in Zimbabwe continues to worsen. As exclusive approaches that prioritise youths and involve scientific and sociological engagement have not curbed substance use disorders, how can spirituality help? Through a qualitative literature review, this article explores the potential of Christian spirituality to reduce substance use disorders. It finds that the church can facilitate inclusive healing and transformation by applying its integral mission. It concludes that if the four dimensions of integral mission – kerygma, leitourgia, koinonia and diakonia – are applied, they could foster the inclusive recovery of people with substance use disorder, protect and sustain people who are vulnerable to substance use disorders and, ultimately, help them survive the plague in Zimbabwe. Therefore, this article recommends that church leaders apply integral mission for inclusionary healing, reformation and transformation.
Contribution: This article explores the potential of the integral mission to curb substance use disorder in Zimbabwe.