A new addiction recovery programme is now available in Rarotonga through the LDS Church, offering a confidential space for individuals seeking to overcome various addictions.

Two missionaries from America introduced an addiction recovery programme called “Healing Through the Savior – Addiction Recovery Program” to the Cook Islands earlier this year.

The programme, facilitated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints of Rarotonga, is held every week for individuals seeking help to overcome addiction.

Troy and Carol Simmons, senior missionaries from America, started the programme in January, hoping to help the community.

“It’s for those that are already addicted to something and they feel that they have no power to stop and their lives have become unmanageable. Most common is alcohol, drugs. But could also be porn, gambling, tobacco, etc,” said Elder Troy Simmons.

The programme is based on the “12 step recovery programme of Alcoholics Anonymous” – a step-by-step guide to provide comfort, help and understanding to those with addictions. A similar programme is run all around the world, however, it was only introduced to the Cook Islands this year.

The two missionaries have been part of the same programme in their home country for years, which inspired them to bring it to the Cook Islands.

Elder Simmons shared a brief overview of the programme. Every Tuesday evenings from 7pm to 8pm, volunteers are welcomed to attend the programme in the Family History Centre at the Avarua LDS branch next to CITC Supermarket.

“It is completely anonymous. No roll is taken and we only go by the first names,” said Elder Simmons.

The programme is open for the entire community and although it is organised and run by the LDS church, there are “no preaching or missionary work” performed during this programme.

However, if a volunteer is seeking further help and struggling on their own, then the two missionaries will help them to learn and depend on God.

According to Elder Simmon, it is for an addiction or behaviour that people want to change. For example, alcohol, smoking, drugs, pornography, gambling, video gaming, etc.

He has seen many people – friends and families – who used the programme to help them with their struggles, and he has always admired and respected their willingness to get help.

“It takes a lot of courage.”

According to the organisers, the programme in Rarotonga is currently running slowly due to a lack of recognition, resulting in low volunteer turnout, typically only one or two people attending.

Elder Simmons would love for more people to attend, as he is confident the programme will grow stronger when volunteers share, connect and discuss amongst themselves to receive help, comfort and strength from one another.

“It’s new for the Cook Islands. But it’s a proven programme as there are meetings all over the world.” he said.

The LDS Church has not yet officially announced the programme to the Pa Enua, however, if there are those who are interested, then Elder Simmons can perform a Zoom call meeting to introduce the programme to them.