Q: Why is Teen Challenge one of the most effective drug recovery programs in America for individuals of all ages?

A: We believe that our students are special people, in need of care, concern, and teaching in a protected setting.

Jessica's Story

I grew up in a family full of expectations and consumed with outside appearances. I could never measure up and always found myself in trouble at school with poor grades and disciplinary problems. At the age of five, my mother began abusing me physically and emotionally. I remember vivid instances where I often had bruises and red marks on my body. I spent my entire childhood depressed, with no friends and unable to feel emotions.

At age 13, a 25-year old man raped me. He tortured me with death threats at least twice a week for five years. It was during this time that I began to cut myself without anyone knowing.

At age 23, I was abused physically by my mother for the last time. I became pregnant and forcefully told my mother that those days were now over. I decided to return to college shortly after my son was born. I visited a psychiatrist who diagnosed me as bipolar and placed me on heavy anti-depressants. Over time, I began going to different doctors getting sleeping pills, pain medications, etc. I had quickly become addicted.

I received my masters degree and entered the corporate world as an administrator. I managed to keep things together on the outside for several years, but I was eventually terminated due to poor work performance. I soon lost my car, my home, and my son. Everything was gone!

I was in and out of mental hospitals for suicide attempts, only to be put on heavier medications. I entered a total of five secular treatment facilities only to become a better prescription addict. At one of the programs I was introduced to crack cocaine. One hit and I was consumed. I began manufacturing the selling crack. I had become so addicted I could no longer think rationally and made many poor decisions. I began selling my body, getting into fights, lying, cheating, and engaging in activities I said I would never do. I came to the end of myself living in a closet, cutting on myself, and all alone.

I learned about the Lord from a group on the streets. They spoke of a merciful God that loved them. They had hope that he was going to help and change their circumstances. I listened and was overcome with thanks that the Lord could also help me. I received Christ in my heart and I knew at that point my life would be different.

I had discovered Teen Challenge on the internet and elected to attempt one more program. The Lord totally transformed my life and I was no longer tossed about by the storms of life. I have been completely delivered from depression and drugs. The Lord fills me with peace and joy as I learn about a merciful and loving God. He's proven Himself faithful, showing me that He has always had great plans to prosper me. I've learned to trust other people around me and my heart ha softened. My relationship with my son has blossomed. I've now completed the program and have elected to work as an inter to impart to other women the freedom they too can experience through Christ.