LAUSR

The Appalachian region of the United States is diverse and full of beauty, mountains, art, and culture. However, the region has also experienced a history of abuse by large corporations, a decline in coal mining, and generational poverty. Substance use rates are disproportionality high, and there are limited resources available to address the issue. The literature suggests that church leaders may be a potential resource, but little empirical work on this topic exists. This study aimed to provide a better understanding of the substance use epidemic through the eyes of church leaders. Interpretative phenomenological analysis guided this qualitative study. Ten church leaders participated in interviews, and four significant themes emerged: the use of stories to describe the participants’ experiences working with substance use in their communities, the stigma associated with substance use, the community impact of substance use in Appalachia, and the lack of understanding and need for training on substance use for church leaders and healthcare practitioners. The study’s results are discussed and connected to the implications for clinical practice, recommendations for further research, and limitations.