Articles & Resources

Retreads Thrift Celebrates Two Years of Second Chances

Two years ago, Retreads Thrift opened its doors with the mission to create a place where every purchase has a purpose and every donation helps transform lives. Today, we're proud to celebrate Retreads Thrift's second anniversary and reflect on the incredible impact made through the support of our community.

Retreads Thrift serves as an extension of the Hope is Alive mission, providing affordable shopping opportunities while also creating job opportunities for those in the Hope is Alive recovery program. Every item donated, every volunteer hour given, and every purchase made directly supports Hope is Alive's mission to radically change the lives of drug addicts, alcoholics, and those who love them.

Over the past two years, Retreads has become a community destination where shoppers can discover unique treasures while knowing their purchases are making a lasting impact. From clothing and furniture to home décor and household essentials, every item has a story — and every purchase helps write a new chapter in someone else's story of recovery.

Support Hope is Alive Through Retreads Thrift

Looking for a thrift store that gives back? Visit Retreads Thrift to shop for affordable clothing, furniture, home goods, and more. Your donations and purchases directly support the Hope is Alive sober living program, helping men and women find freedom from addiction and build lives filled with hope and purpose.

Shop. Donate. Volunteer. Change Lives.

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Address

‍9470 N May Ave, The Village, OK 73120

Email

‍retreads@hopeisalive.net

Phone

‍405-242-2137

Hours of Operation

Sunday: Closed

Monday–Saturday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

The Power of Saying Yes

For a long time, Lance Lang was really good at saying yes… to the wrong things. Ten years of addiction eventually turned into a 50-pill-a-day habit, and his life was spiraling fast. Then he said yes to the right thing: Jesus. This Scripture reading plan is derived from the chapter “Just Say Yes” of Lance’s book, Hope is Alive (2nd edition). Journey with Lance as he shares how simple obedience can lead to real and lasting change.

Start the plan here: The Power of Saying Yes

Purchase Hope is Alive here!

How Writing a Letter to Addiction Can Help You Heal

In 2015, after my husband returned home from treatment, I found myself in a state of grief. I was grieving what I thought life would be like, and I was facing the reality of what it actually was. I felt like we had lost two years of our lives together, and all my hopes and dreams for the future were crushed — even though he was sober.

This is a grief many of us experience when we love someone who struggles with substance use.

As I processed this with my counselor, she suggested I write a letter — not to my husband, but to the disease of addiction itself. In that letter, I was able to fully share everything alcohol had taken from me. I expressed my raw emotions — my disappointment, fear, anger, and more. It gave me a safe place to release what I had been holding in for so long, and it was truly healing.

I later shared the letter with my counselor and my Finding Hope group, a faith-based support group for the loved ones of addicts and alcoholics. My husband has never read it; the letter was never meant for him, but for the disease that affected him. Since that summer in 2015, I have rewritten the letter several times. Through that process, I’ve seen God’s goodness and faithfulness, as well as my own growth and healing.

Writing a letter to addiction can be a powerful, cathartic way to grieve, process, and express what the disease has done to you personally. Because of that, this month, we will be doing this activity during your Finding Hope meeting. If you’re unable to attend, I encourage you to do it on your own.

Once you have your letter, it’s important to share it out loud with a trusted person, whether that’s a Hope Dealer, your counselor, or someone else you feel safe with. You are always welcome to reach out to me as well; I would be honored to listen.

Don’t let grief and addiction take any more from you. Begin your healing journey today.

Here is how my letter began:

‍Dear Alcohol,

I hate what you are doing to our family. You have stolen so much from our family. You stole memories. You stole financial peace. You have stolen sleep. Because of you, I have lived on eggshells. I am tired of living like this…

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With hope,

Amy LaRue, Director of Family Support Groups

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If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, Hope is Alive offers faith-based addiction recovery support, sober living resources, and Finding Hope groups for families impacted by substance abuse.

Learning to Laugh Again After Loss: Christian Grief Support

After Lexi passed away, I didn’t want to ever laugh again. There were times when I would catch myself smiling at something, and immediately I would stop and pull my heart back. It didn’t feel right to laugh. Laughing meant I was happy, which meant I was okay with my daughter not being here, and I would never be okay with that.

Then one day, my other two daughters and I were watching a movie, and a certain scene caught our attention. One of the characters was speaking in Arabic, and he said something that sounded like “Leo Budge,” the goofy nickname we had given our dog. It struck us as absolutely hilarious, and we all three burst out laughing. I don’t know how many times we rewound the movie to re-listen to it, but each time we laughed even harder, until our bellies ached and tears streamed down our faces. I know this may sound crazy, but to us it was insanely funny. And it felt so good to laugh.

I think that was the moment I started to realize that it might be okay to laugh again. I had let myself enjoy the moment, but my love for Lexi had not lessened. And that moment of laughter might even have helped my state of mind.

Proverbs 17:22 says that “a joyful heart is good medicine.” When processing grief, our bodies desperately need relief, and this is what laughter provides. It has been proven that laughing affects our bodies physically in a healthy way. According to the Mayo Clinic, the endorphins released in the brain when we laugh “stimulate circulation and aid muscle relaxation.” These endorphins are natural painkillers. They relieve stress from our system, which improves our overall long-term health.

Telling ourselves we should not feel joy is a lie from the enemy. He has come to “steal and kill and destroy.” (John 10:10) He knows that laughter helps us heal, and he wants us to remain in our misery — where we are no good to anyone — and remain separated from God.

The truth is, allowing yourself to laugh does not mean you didn’t care about your loved one. As a matter of fact, it is quite the opposite. It shows that you are taking care of yourself and allowing yourself to move through grief and experience the joy, healing, and peace that God can provide. Isn’t that what your loved one would want? I know Lexi would hate it if I chose to go around being glum all the time, never letting myself have fun again.

What can help you enjoy a laugh today? At our first Hope After Loss retreat, someone shared a clip of a comedian, and we found ourselves laughing together. There are so many good Christian comedians just a YouTube click away from brightening your spirit — Jim Gaffigan, John Crist, Tim Hawkins, Nate Bargatze, Chonda Pierce. Turn on a favorite funny movie or show. Seek out things that will make you smile. Christ came so that we may have life, and have it abundantly. Take some time today to stop and laugh!

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With hope,

Kris Darrah, Lexi's Mom

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For more information, visit:

FindingHope.Today

HopeAfterLoss.Today

Faith-based support groups for families of addicts and alcoholics.

Is My Teen Using Drugs? What Parents Should Look For

Parenting a teenager can feel like walking a tightrope. Between mood swings, growing independence, and changing social circles, it’s not always easy to tell what’s normal teenage behavior and what could signal something more serious. One of the biggest fears many parents face is wondering: Is my teen using drugs?

While experimentation doesn’t always lead to addiction, early drug use can have long-term consequences on mental health, academic performance, relationships, and future opportunities.

At Hope is Alive, we know that recognizing the warning signs early can make a life-changing difference. Here’s what parents should look for and how to respond if you suspect your teen may be struggling with substance use.

Why Teens Experiment With Drugs

Before identifying the signs, it’s important to understand why teens may turn to drugs or alcohol in the first place.

Common reasons include:

• Peer pressure
• Curiosity
• Stress or anxiety
• Depression or emotional pain
• Academic pressure
• Trauma or family conflict
• Desire to fit in socially
• Escaping difficult emotions

Physical Signs Your Teen May Be Using Drugs

Some of the earliest indicators of substance use are physical changes. While one sign alone doesn’t necessarily confirm drug use, multiple symptoms together may warrant further investigation.

Changes in Appearance

Look for both subtle and obvious changes:

• Bloodshot or glassy eyes
• Dilated or pinpoint pupils
• Sudden weight loss or gain
• Poor hygiene
• Unusual body odors or smells on clothing
• Frequent use of eye drops, gum, or strong cologne

Changes in Sleep Patterns

Drug use often disrupts normal sleep habits, causing:

• Sleeping excessively
• Insomnia
• Difficulty waking up
• Staying out late regularly

Unexplained Health Issues

Watch for:

• Frequent nosebleeds
• Chronic cough
• Tremors or shakiness
• Lack of energy
• Decrease in coordination

Behavioral Warning Signs of Teen Drug Use

Behavioral changes are often easier to spot than physical symptoms. If your teen’s personality or habits suddenly shift, it may be time to have a conversation with them.

Declining Academic Performance

One of the most common red flags is a sudden drop in school performance, including:

• Falling grades
• Skipping classes
• Loss of motivation
• Frequent disciplinary issues

Secretive or Suspicious Behavior

Teens naturally seek privacy, but extreme secrecy can indicate that something else is going on:

• Locking doors constantly
• Hiding backpacks or phones
• Lying about whereabouts
• Sneaking out
• Becoming defensive when asked simple questions
• Spend excessive time alone
• Avoid family interaction
• Become emotionally distant

Changes in Friend Groups

New friendships aren’t always a bad thing, but abrupt social changes may be concerning if:

• Old friends disappear suddenly
• Your teen refuses to introduce new friends
• Their new friends have a history of risky behavior

Loss of Interest in Activities

Substance use can cause teens to withdraw from hobbies they once loved:

• Sports
• Church activities
• Family events
• Music
• Clubs

Mood Swings

Substance use can trigger:

• Irritability
• Aggression
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Sudden emotional outbursts

Signs of Specific Substance Use

Different substances can create different warning signs.

Marijuana

Possible indicators include:

• Red eyes
• Increased appetite
• Slowed reaction times
• Distinct skunky smell

Alcohol

Signs may include:

• Slurred speech
• Poor coordination
• Smell of alcohol
• Risky decision-making

Prescription Drug Misuse

Teens abusing prescription medications may:

• Appear unusually sleepy or hyperactive
• Have missing medications from home
• Experience memory problems

Vaping and Nicotine

Common warning signs:

• Sweet or fruity smells
• Increased thirst
• Nosebleeds
• Frequent coughing

What Parents Should NOT Do

If you suspect drug use, your reaction matters. Fear and anger are natural, but certain responses can push teens away instead of helping them.

Avoid:

• Yelling or threatening
• Public shaming
• Making assumptions without evidence
• Ignoring the problem and hoping it goes away

How to Talk to Your Teen About Drug Use

Having a conversation about drugs isn’t easy, but open communication is one of the most powerful tools parents have.

Choose the Right Time

Avoid conversations during arguments or emotionally heated moments. Choose a time when your teen is in a good mood, you are alone, and there is nothing pressing happening afterwards.

Ask Open-Ended Questions

Instead of accusations, try:

• “I’ve noticed some changes lately. How are you doing?”
• “Is there anything stressing you out?”
• “Have you been feeling overwhelmed?”

Listen More Than You Speak

Teens are more likely to open up when they feel heard instead of judged. Don’t tell them what they are feeling; ask them how they are feeling.

Stay Calm

Even if you discover drug use, remain calm. Yelling at them won’t help the situation. Offering support and solutions can. Remind them that you love them and that everything is going to be okay.

When to Seek Professional Help

Sometimes parental support alone isn’t enough. If drug use is ongoing or escalating, professional help may be necessary.

Warning signs that indicate immediate intervention may be needed include:

• Overdose symptoms
• Suicidal thoughts
• Severe behavioral changes
• Legal problems
• Repeated substance use despite consequences

Early treatment can significantly improve long-term outcomes.

Hope and Recovery Are Possible

Discovering that your teen may be using drugs can feel like the end of the world. But you are not alone, and your child’s story is not over.

At Hope is Alive, we believe recovery is possible for every individual and every family. Through community, accountability, support, and faith-based recovery resources, families can begin healing together.

The earlier substance use is addressed, the greater the chance for lasting recovery and restored relationships.

If you’re concerned about your teen, don’t wait to reach out for support. One conversation could change everything.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teen Drug Use

What is the most common sign of teen drug use?

Behavioral changes such as secrecy, declining grades, and mood swings are often the earliest noticeable signs.

Should I drug test my teenager?

Drug testing may be appropriate in some situations, but it should be approached carefully and ideally with professional guidance.

How can I prevent my teen from using drugs?

Strong communication, healthy boundaries, involvement in their lives, and emotional support all reduce the risk of substance use. However, it is ultimately their decision, and you are not responsible for what they choose to do.

Final Thoughts

Trust your instincts. If something feels off, investigate it. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help and guidance. Hope is Alive’s HopeLine is always available to answer questions and offer guidance.

1-844-3-HOPE-NOW

This podcast explores the hidden trauma loved ones experience while caring for someone struggling with addiction. We discuss how PTSD and complex PTSD can develop through ongoing emotional and physical trauma, including overdoses, manipulation, fear, abandonment, and chronic stress. The episode highlights common triggers, long-term impacts on mental and physical health, and the silent battle families face behind closed doors. Through real-life stories and education, we remind listeners that healing is possible through support, boundaries, self-care, faith, and trauma-informed recovery tools.

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For more information, visit:

FindingHope.Today

HopeAfterLoss.Today

Faith-based support groups for families of addicts and alcoholics.

Hope for the Incarcerated

You may be incarcerated, but you are not forgotten. Here is two weeks' worth of hope, including devotions and encouraging testimonies from former inmates in a reading plan developed by Hope is Alive Ministries, with the assistance of Beth Niestemski, LCSW, former Associate Director of Mental Health for New York City's Rikers Island.

Start the plan here: Hope for the Incarcerated

The Role PTSD Plays in Addiction Recovery

What many people don’t realize is that emotional triggers are often connected to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and unresolved trauma. PTSD can develop from firsthand experiences like witnessing an overdose, abuse, or crisis situations, but it can also come from prolonged exposure to trauma or repeatedly hearing about painful experiences.

Loved ones of those struggling with addiction often experience PTSD. While addiction affects the individual, it also deeply impacts parents, spouses, and family members who live through ongoing stress, fear, and uncertainty. This can show up as anxiety, emotional flashbacks, or waves of depression. Watching someone you love put themselves at risk can create both direct and indirect trauma over time.

This trauma can be both physical and emotional. Some have witnessed overdoses, called the police, or faced the heartbreak of separation, jail, or loss. Others carry the quieter weight of emotional pain stemming from manipulation, broken trust, and the loss of healthy communication. Over time, these experiences leave a lasting impact.

One mom shared that after witnessing her son overdose, even the sound of a siren now causes panic. Others experience symptoms like trouble breathing, exhaustion, or strain in relationships after years of chronic stress. Many also carry the heavy burden of not knowing if their loved one is safe.

The good news is that healing from PTSD and trauma is possible. Support groups like Finding Hope, trauma-informed counseling, and resources like Codependent No More can all play a role in healing. Journaling, self-care, and learning to recognize your triggers are important steps forward.

You don’t need to live in fear of PTSD. Instead, recognize that it is real and that healing is possible when you’re willing to face it. Invite God into that process, and allow Him to walk with you each step of the way.

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For more information, visit:

FindingHope.Today

HopeAfterLoss.Today

Faith-based support groups for families of addicts and alcoholics.

Understanding Triggers in Addiction Recovery: Healing from Trauma

A smell. A date. A song. A holiday. A landmark. A late night call. A knock at the door. 

These can all be triggers. You can be doing great, and then all of a sudden, out of the blue, you hear a song that takes you right back to where you once were. For those affected by addiction, relapse, trauma, or family dysfunction, triggers are a very real part of the healing journey.

For me, the date February 23 can be a big trigger — some years more than others. This is the date when everything began to come crashing down in my husband’s addiction. It’s also my niece’s birthday, so I’m reminded of it each year. Some years I need to have my full support system and tools ready, while other years I can celebrate the growth in both myself and my husband through addiction recovery and sobriety.

Another trigger for me is seeing my husband’s truck in the driveway when he comes home early from work. During the years of active addiction, there were countless times I would walk into the house and find him passed out in his recliner or asleep in our bed. Those moments created deep fear, anxiety, and emotional trauma. Even now, after years of sobriety and recovery, those feelings can still rise up unexpectedly.

The difference today is that we face those triggers together. Recovery has taught us the importance of communication, honesty, and emotional safety. I can now openly say, “I get anxious and fearful when I see that you’re home early from work.” And because my husband understands the impact addiction once had on our family, he responds with compassion instead of defensiveness. Even 11 years later, he still texts me when he’s coming home early or working from home because he wants to help protect the healing we’ve fought so hard for.

Sometimes people think triggers mean they haven’t healed or moved forward from addiction trauma, but that simply isn’t true. Triggers are not signs of weakness or failure. Often, they are reminders of what you survived, what God carried you through, and how deeply you love and care. Addiction recovery is not about pretending the past never happened — it’s about learning healthy ways to respond when painful memories resurface. The key is not to ignore them or feel ashamed of them.

When a trigger comes, pause, acknowledge it, and lean into the tools and support you’ve built — whether that’s prayer, setting a boundary, reaching out to someone you trust, or simply taking a moment to ground yourself. Healing doesn’t mean the absence of triggers; it means you no longer let them control you.

Today, I want to encourage you to identify the triggers in your life and make a plan for how to work through them. Invite God into that process, and allow Him to guide you each step of the way.

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With hope,

Amy LaRue, Director of Family Support Groups

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For more information, visit:

FindingHope.Today

HopeAfterLoss.Today

Faith-based support groups for families of addicts and alcoholics.

Surviving a Relapse: Practical Tips for Loved Ones of Addicts

Written by Finding Hope, this seven-day devotional was created for those walking the painful, confusing road of loving someone who struggles with addiction. Relapse can stir up grief, fear, anger, and exhaustion — but you are not alone, and this season is not without purpose or hope. Regardless of how you’re feeling, this reading plan is a chance to remember that you are not alone, it’s not your fault, and there is hope.

Start the plan here: Surviving a Relapse: Practical Tips for Loved Ones of Addicts

Signs My Loved One is a Functioning Alcoholic

An alcohol addiction doesn’t always look the way people expect. Not everyone who struggles with alcohol loses their job or their relationships. In fact, many individuals maintain careers, families, social lives, good finances, and daily routines while battling dependency behind the scenes. This is often referred to as functioning alcoholism. Because of the high-functioning nature of those impacted, it can be difficult to recognize that your loved one has a substance use disorder.

At Hope is Alive, we understand how confusing and painful it can be to suspect a loved one is struggling with alcoholism. Knowing the signs is the first step toward helping them — and yourself.

What Is a Functioning Alcoholic?

A functioning alcoholic is someone who appears to manage daily responsibilities while still having a problematic relationship with alcohol. They can still perform well at their job and some can even appear sober to those who don’t know them well. Generally, they seem “in control” of their alcohol consumption. Nonetheless, alcohol still plays a central and unhealthy role in their life.

Because things may look “fine” from the outside, the issue often goes unnoticed or is minimized.

Common Signs of a Functioning Alcoholic

They Rely on Alcohol to Cope

Your loved one may turn to alcohol to manage their emotions. If they are stressed, they are more likely to drink. If they are anxious, they are more likely to drink. If they are in physical pain, they are more likely to drink. Essentially, instead of using controlled medications or healthy coping habits like journaling, they turn to alcohol to solve all of their problems.

Drinking Is a Daily or Frequent Habit

Even if it’s “just a few drinks,” consistent daily use or an inability to skip drinking days can be a sign of alcoholism. If they do manage to go a few days without drinking, you might notice that they are shaky and moody — this is because of withdrawal.

They Justify or Minimize Their Drinking

You might hear things like:

• “I deserve this after a long day.”
• “At least I’m not as bad as others.”
• “I can stop whenever I want.”

These rationalizations help them avoid confronting the issue. They are a form of denial.

They Maintain Responsibilities (at a cost)

Functioning alcoholics often keep up appearances, but they can’t hide everything. Alcohol can affect emotional regulation. As such, you may notice:

• Sudden irritability
• Fatigue 
• Withdrawal from family or friends
• Defensiveness when drinking is mentioned

They Hide or Downplay Their Drinking

They may:

• Drink alone or in secret
• Hide bottles
• Underreport how much they’ve consumed

Secrecy is a major red flag.

Their Tolerance Has Increased

Over time, they need more alcohol to feel the same effects. This can escalate consumption without obvious outward signs.

For instance, three beers might have given them a buzz previously, but now it takes five. If they drink hard liquor, they might opt for drinks with a higher alcohol percentage to get the same effect without noticeably drinking more liquid.

How to Help a Functioning Alcoholic

Recognizing the signs of alcoholism in someone you love can feel overwhelming. You may wonder if you’re overreacting or if things are “really that bad.” But the truth is, functioning alcoholism is still alcoholism, and without help, it often worsens over time.

The good news is that recovery is possible, especially with professional help.

That’s where Hope is Alive and The Healing Center can help.

Hope is Alive is dedicated to transforming lives impacted by addiction through a holistic approach that includes recovery homes in six states, an innovative Healing Center for personalized recovery support, and compassionate support groups for families and loved ones through Finding Hope.

The Healing Center is a 45-day immersive experience that offers a trauma-informed, Christ-centered approach to radical life transformation for drug addicts, alcoholics, and men with gambling-related or sexual struggles.

Reach out to our HopeLine today to see which of our services is the best fit for you and your loved one. Call 1-844-3-HOPE-NOW or click here to fill out a contact form.

Getting Mom Back: An Unforgettable Mother's Day for Many

Some mothers thought they’d NEVER hold their children again.

From mothers praying their child would survive addiction to children praying their mothers would break free from addiction, countless families have experienced the heartbreak of substance abuse — especially on Mother’s Day.

But this year, countless mothers were given the best gift imaginable: the chance to hold their children again.

We asked several women in our recovery program what this Mother’s Day meant to them, and their stories are a powerful reminder of the life change your support makes possible for families every single day.

“Recovery gave me more than sobriety. It gave me the chance to reconnect with my children. Every sober day is another opportunity to rebuild trust, create memories, and become the parent they deserve.” —Annie Hufford

“This was my first Mother’s Day present and sober with my kids! Being able to take them places by myself and bond with them is a huge blessing!” —Leura Garner

“This was my first Mother’s Day sober with my mom after spending four years in prison. Getting to honor Mama Wendy at our Sunday night meeting meant everything to me — she was the mom to my boys when I couldn’t be, never gave up on me, and believed in me when I couldn’t believe in myself.” —Janell Miller

“My son and daughter-in-law celebrated me over breakfast with my grandkids. I was able to be present with a sober mind, and it meant everything to me and gave me so much hope for many more celebrations.” —Zabrina Farmen

“Being a mom is such a beautiful gift. My boys teach me so much about myself every day. They help me want to be a better person and keep fighting.” —Mackenzie Fitzgerald

Separation from children and loss of custody is a major driver of relapse and a significant barrier to long-term recovery. That’s why Hope is Alive focuses on reuniting parents with their children.

So far, we have helped reunite 2,460 children with sober parents. And this is only the beginning.

Next year, The Healing Center will open its doors to women and families through the launch of a Women’s Recovery Lodge and two Family Retreat Lodges. As a result, more mothers will have access to life-changing recovery support and more families will be restored.

Help Us Reunite More Families