Drug addiction is a growing concern across the United States, but it has had a particularly harmful impact on American Indian and Alaska Native populations. Surveys show higher rates of substance use among American Indian people compared to the general population, with challenges ranging from illicit drug use to heavy alcohol misuse. These struggles are often tied to historical trauma, systemic barriers, and limited access to culturally aligned care. Finding the right help for drug addiction remains a top option for recovery.
The Aliya Native American Program was created to provide culturally responsive treatment for these issues. By blending research-based therapies with Indigenous traditions, the program supports healing for individuals, families, and communities impacted by addiction.
Historical Trauma and Substance Use
Substance misuse in American Indian communities cannot be separated from the impact of historical trauma. The legacy of forced relocation, loss of culture, and the boarding school era has left deep wounds. Measuring historical trauma in research shows clear links between these painful histories and higher risk of developing substance use disorders.
For many Indian people with current substance use, pain from historical and modern challenges creates cycles of addictive behaviors that are difficult to escape without culturally grounded care.
Current Substance Use and Native Populations
Research shows that early exposure to drugs or alcohol increases the risk of developing lifelong addiction. Studies of community samples demonstrate that American Indian and Alaska Native populations often report higher rates of binge drinking, prescription misuse, and illicit drug use compared to other groups.
This reality is especially concerning for younger generations. High levels of alcohol consumption and exposure to traumatic experiences place Native adolescents at risk, reinforcing the need for culturally specific prevention and treatment approaches.
Treatment at Aliya Native American Program
At Aliya, we recognize that substance dependence cannot be addressed without considering cultural identity and community connection. Our services include:
- Medical Detox – Safe, supervised withdrawal management for those with severe physical dependence.
- Residential Treatment – 24/7 support with therapy, peer groups, and traditional healing such as sweat lodges, smudging, and drum circles.
- Partial Hospitalization & Outpatient Programs – Flexible treatment plans that help patients return to family and community while continuing therapy.
Our team uses therapies like motivational interviewing, CBT, and trauma-informed counseling while incorporating Indigenous practices. This dual approach ensures healing for the mind, body, and spirit.
Healing Through Community and Culture
Effective treatment for American Indian people must honor culture. At Aliya, we integrate:
- Elder teachings and healing circles to restore guidance and community unity
- Ceremonies and storytelling to process grief and traumatic experiences
- Creative practices such as beadwork, drumming, and art to rebuild identity
- Prevention programs that strengthen resilience and protect future generations
By addressing both trauma and addiction, the program helps break cycles of pain while restoring cultural pride and spiritual strength.
The Path Forward
If you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse, drug abuse, or alcohol abuse, it’s time to take the first step toward recovery. Our programs address drug and alcohol dependence and alcohol dependence with culturally sensitive care for indigenous communities, Native American communities, indigenous people, and native youth. Don’t wait—start your journey to a healthier future today and help prevent further challenges that future research shows can impact drugs and alcohol use in your community.
Addiction has brought hardship to many American Indian and Alaska Native communities, but healing is possible. Research from the American Journal of Community Psychology and the Journal of Community Psychology shows that culturally grounded, trauma-informed care offers the most effective path toward recovery.
The Aliya Native American Program provides compassionate treatment that blends tradition with science. By addressing substance use among American Indian populations holistically, we help individuals reclaim balance, identity, and wellness.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, know that you are not alone. Healing is possible. At Aliya, we stand beside you on the journey to recovery.