Drug, alcohol, and other substance abuse continues to plague all of mankind. Its effects can devastate individuals, families, communities, and nations. The Church continues to be concerned with the improper and harmful use of drugs or similar substances under circumstances which would result in addiction, physical or mental impairment, or in lowering moral standards. Prevention, recognition, and treatment are essential elements in dealing with substance abuse problems. Substance abuse recovery groups supervised by local LDS Family Services agencies are available in some areas. Recovery and healing are ultimately available to all through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

President Ezra Taft Benson said: "I have always felt . . . that the greater blessing of obedience to the Word of Wisdom and all other commandments is spiritual. . . .We give you warning that Satan and his emissaries will strive to entice you to use harmful substances, because they well know if you partake, your spiritual powers will be inhibited and you will be in their evil power "(Ensign, May 1983, 54-55).