MARIES COUNTY — Addiction continues to impact families and communities across Missouri, affecting individuals of all ages and backgrounds, including those in Maries County.

Substance abuse can contribute to broken relationships, financial hardship, declining physical and mental health, job loss and involvement with the criminal justice system. In many cases, addiction also leaves lasting emotional effects on children, spouses and other loved ones who often struggle alongside the individual facing dependency.

Recovery advocates say one of the greatest dangers of addiction is isolation. Many individuals battling alcohol or drug dependency suffer in silence, believing they have nowhere to turn or fearing judgment from others. Without support, addiction can worsen over time, increasing the risk of overdose, self-harm and long-term health complications. Early intervention and access to consistent support systems are often considered critical parts of recovery.

According to the most complete statewide figures currently available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Missouri recorded approximately 1,986 drug overdose deaths in 2025. The total reflects the continuing impact of substance abuse and addiction across communities throughout the state.

For comparison, Missouri recorded about 2,178 overdose deaths in 2022. More recent reporting from the University of Missouri — St. Louis Addiction Science Team estimated approximately 1,450 overdose deaths statewide in 2024, suggesting overdose fatalities have fluctuated in recent years while remaining a significant public health concern.

Health officials continue to report that many overdose deaths in Missouri involve fentanyl or opioids, which remain among the leading drivers of fatal overdoses due to their potency and widespread presence in illegal drug supplies.

Throughout the region, churches, recovery organizations and peer-support groups continue working to provide safe and welcoming environments for those seeking help. Weekly meetings through Alcoholics Anonymous, Celebrate Recovery and Narcotics Anonymous offer opportunities for individuals and families to connect with others facing similar struggles while encouraging accountability, healing and long-term recovery.

Residents throughout the area have access to a variety of weekly recovery and support meetings, including programs through Alcoholics Anonymous, Celebrate Recovery and Narcotics Anonymous.

The meetings are intended to support individuals struggling with addiction, substance abuse, hurts, habits and other life challenges, while also offering encouragement for families and young people. Many programs include large-group discussions, small-group sessions, meals and childcare opportunities. Some locations also offer youth-focused support programs, including The Landing, which is designed for teens ages 12-18 experiencing addiction.

Large Group is the main gathering where everyone meets together. This portion often includes worship music, prayer, personal testimonies, recovery lessons or guest speakers. It is designed to encourage participants, provide teaching and create a sense of community among attendees.

Small Group takes place afterward and breaks participants into smaller, more personal discussion circles. During Small Group, participants can openly discuss challenges, victories and personal experiences in a more private setting. The goal is to provide accountability, support and a safe environment for honest conversation.

Many recovery organizations consider the Small Group portion one of the most important parts of the process because it allows people to build trust and ongoing relationships with others facing similar struggles.

“Step 1 is admitting we are powerless to control our compulsive behaviors and that our lives have become unmanageable. For me, that’s what I finally had no choice but to acknowledge. Having just lost my daughter to DFS and my job to check fraud, I knew I needed change. I went into my first meeting at Bland CR and expected to be faced with shame for the addict that I was but instead, they greeted me with open arms and smiling faces,” LaTasha Lee, former ministry leader of Linn Celebrate Recovery, said.

Sunday meetings begin with Alcoholics Anonymous from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at St. Alexander Catholic Church, 400 Third St. in Belle. The meeting provides peer support and fellowship for individuals recovering from alcohol addiction.

Alcoholics Anonymous also meets Mondays from 7-8 p.m. at 1102 U.S. Highway 63 in Vienna, offering support and accountability for individuals seeking sobriety from alcohol addiction.

Tuesday meetings include Celebrate Recovery at Linn Community Christian Church, 1598 Highway 50 in Linn. Dinner is served at 6:30 p.m., followed by Large Group at 7 p.m. and Small Group at 8 p.m. Childcare is provided. The program offers faith-based recovery support for individuals and families dealing with addiction and other life struggles.

Alcoholics Anonymous also meets Tuesdays from 7-8 p.m. at 103 E. Jefferson St. in Owensville for individuals recovering from alcohol dependency.

Wednesday meetings include Celebrate Recovery at 140 W. Industrial Drive in Gerald. Dinner begins at 6 p.m., followed by Small Group at 7 p.m. Childcare is provided.

Narcotics Anonymous meets Wednesdays from 7-8 p.m. at Freedom Recovery Center, 1014 Highway 28 W. in Owensville, supporting individuals recovering from drug addiction.

Celebrate Recovery also meets Thursdays at 806 Ridgeview Ave. in Rolla. Large Group begins at 6 p.m., followed by Small Group at 7 p.m.

Another Thursday Celebrate Recovery meeting is held at 1858 Krausetown Road in Owensville. Large Group begins at 7 p.m., followed by Small Group at 8 p.m.

Friday meetings include Celebrate Recovery at 710 W. Highway 28 in Bland. Dinner begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by Large Group at 7 p.m. and Small Group at 8 p.m. Childcare is provided, and The Landing Support Group for youth ages 12-18 also meets at the location.

Celebrate Recovery also meets Fridays at 1858 Krausetown Road in Owensville, with Large Group beginning at 7 p.m. and Small Group at 8 p.m.

Saturday meetings conclude the week with Celebrate Recovery at 1409 Market St. in Hermann. Dinner begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by Large Group at 7 p.m. and Small Group at 8 p.m.