Building Community and Breaking Stigma with More Than Addiction

I am at Roadside Park in Saint Albans, for this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers Podcast. Today, I am speaking with Shanna Wickline, one of the co-founders of More Than Addiction. We’re here at a community picnic filled with energy, music, and activities. There are inflatables, a live DJ, arts and crafts, and even the Army National Guard with a rock wall. Families are gathering, enjoying free hot dogs, and participating in this event aimed at fostering a sense of community.

Shanna explains that the purpose of this event is to bring people together. The motto here is “United we stand,” and this picnic is an effort to unite the community and build stronger bonds among its members. Shanna tells me that More Than Addiction was formed in 2019 by three founders, all of whom experienced personal losses due to substance abuse. Their mission is to combat the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction. Shanna emphasizes that people affected by addiction and their families often feel isolated and ashamed, which prevents them from seeking help.

More Than Addiction aims to change this narrative. They reach out to youth in schools, sharing real stories from individuals who have faced addiction and from family members who have lost loved ones to substance abuse. This initiative is about empowering young people to understand that they are more than their circumstances. Shanna believes that by making it easier and more acceptable to ask for help, they can reduce the stigma around addiction and mental health issues.

When asked about the progress More Than Addiction has made since its inception, Shanna reflects on the widespread impact of addiction and mental health challenges. She explains that these issues are not isolated; they affect everyone in different ways, including financially and socially. More Than Addiction has discovered that the core of many struggles is disconnection, both within families and communities. By organizing events like this picnic, they aim to reconnect people, providing a sense of community and support.

Shanna also highlights the importance of giving a voice to young people. She believes that many kids today feel unheard, and part of More Than Addiction’s mission is to amplify their voices. By doing so, they hope to encourage the next generation to be more resilient and connected.

For those who are currently struggling with addiction or know someone who is, Shanna recommends reaching out to Help4WV, an organization that provides various hotlines and resources for those in need. She emphasizes the importance of getting connected, even before a problem arises. By building a support network now, people can be better prepared for any future challenges. Shanna encourages participation in community events like this one, where individuals can meet others and build relationships that might be vital in times of need.

As we continue our conversation, Shanna stresses the importance of not being afraid to reach out for help. She mentions that small steps, like making a phone call or sending a text, can make a significant difference. Help4WV, she notes, offers less intimidating ways to seek assistance, including helplines and texting options, making it easier for people to take that crucial first step toward getting help. Toward the end of our talk, I ask Shanna about future events and how people can stay informed. She mentions that More Than Addiction has a Facebook page where they post updates and event information. They plan to start a quarterly newsletter to keep the community informed and engaged. Shanna is excited about the potential for future events and is eager to continue building connections within the community.