Substance abuse, including the abuse of alcohol, remains one of the most pressing challenges in many tribal communities. Addiction destroys lives, tears apart families, and impacts future generations through childhood trauma, fetal alcohol syndrome, and other lasting effects. In response to this ongoing crisis, tribes across the country are experimenting with a wide array of prevention, intervention, and treatment strategies. Healing to Wellness Courts use judicial monitoring and coordinated treatment to break the cycle of addiction. Youth prevention programs offer young people positive, pro-social activities as an alternative to drugs. And cultural programs teach ceremonies, language, and other traditions to empower tribal members to stay away from destructive influences.
