MN Adult & Teen Challenge

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This review is based on my own experience as a client.



Talk to anyone who has completed the full 13-month program at Teen Challenge and you will hear something like, ''It was the hardest thing I've ever done.'' I don't know if I'd go that far, but it definitely ranks up there with the two or three hardest, most life-changing experiences I've had. I might call it the worst, best thing I've ever done. Truthfully, it is probably the best decision I've made in my adult life. But in the middle of it, one would be hard-pressed to find anything enjoyable about living in a group home full of recovering addicts all trying to sort out their ''stuff'' without going crazy. But hey, if it was fun it wouldn't be treatment...



It is as much the actual programming as it is the experience of learning how to survive (while staying sober) the daily triggers and trials inherent in the environment that will change you. Think of it as stress inoculation. And, do not underestimate the faith-based component. It is the heart and soul of everything that is Teen Challenge. Teen Challenge is nothing if not a house of God; active, vibrant, and alive with the Spirit of Christ; right down to the very last broken and needy soul. If that doesn't appeal to you, buyer beware...



But also know this is the largest, most successful addiction treatment program in the world for a reason. And for the price (Go ahead - compare it to the competition), I dare you to complain.

I graduated from MnTC five years ago. I was born and raised around drug addiction, and I was using drugs and committing crimes myself by the time I was 13. I spent my teenage years going in and out of juvenile centers and treatment programs. By the time I went to MnTC when I was 21, I was addicted to meth and had been convicted of multiple felonies.



I think the biggest difference between MnTC and other treatment programs is that MnTC take a more holistic approach to treatment. They teach you how to live. It was exactly what I needed because I didn't know. I didn't have any hobbies, no work experience, no friends who didn't use or sell drugs. MnTC taught me how to move through daily life without drugs. I learned how to be happy, angry, sad, lonely, or excited without getting high. For people who haven't struggled with addiction that may not mean much, but if you have been using for years, then you know that it does.



When I look at the quality of life of successful MnTC grads compared to successful grads of other treatment centers, I have to conclude that MnTC provides a better product. Beyond mere abstinence rates, most of the MnTC grads that I know have gone on to live full, rewarding lives. We get to the point where we forget about our "sobriety birthday," and quit thinking about staying sober. Drugs just lose their power in our lives. Having spent a significant amount of time in (court-ordered) 12 step meetings, I know that MnTC grads stand in stark contrast to 12 step group members whose lives revolve around trying to stay sober.



I recently graduated from college and I start grad school this fall. I have a great relationship with my family, and I am planning to start a family of my own soon. NA defines an "addict" as someone whose life is controlled by drugs. By that definition, I'm not an addict. I am a student, a son, a brother, and, soon I hope, a husband and father. I have no choice but to attribute most of my success to what I learned while in MnTC.

I want to thank Rich S. for giving me opportunity to speak at the mens chapel Sept. 21st what a great bunch of guys. Pray that the Lord will continue to work in each life.Lyn Diekman