"Alcoholism and addictions are not just habits, they are spiritual diseases that steal life from lives."
Recognizing the deep and destructive impact of addiction, St. Ann’s Society initiated its De-Addiction Programme in 2002 at Rajam, under the dedicated leadership of Sr. Philomina Joseph. She was soon joined in this life-giving mission by Sr. Josephine Rose. In 2008, the programme was further expanded to Arilova, marking a significant milestone in our outreach to affected individuals and families.
Addiction affects the entire person,physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Our interventions address these dimensions holistically:
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Groups: Formed in Rajam, these groups played a pivotal role in guiding many individuals towards sobriety. As members found healing and strength, they began helping others—creating a beautiful ripple effect of recovery and hope. Over time, these AA groups became self-reliant and continue to function independently, empowering local communities.
Family-Centered Counselling: We believe that healing is most effective when the family walks the journey together. Special counselling sessions are conducted for wives, guiding them on how to support and respond constructively during their husband's transformation process. The commitment and cooperation of these women have been a cornerstone in the success stories of many families.
This programme has not only helped men reclaim their lives, but also enabled women to become agents of change within their homes and communities.
With compassion, counseling, community support, and spiritual guidance, we continue to stand with those bound by addiction—lighting a path from despair to dignity.
Sr. Josephine Rose generously volunteered to provide counselling for juveniles in four Juvenile Homes across Visakhapatnam. Through her compassionate guidance and consistent presence, many young lives were touched, inspired, and redirected toward a brighter and more hopeful future.
Holistic healing through De-Addiction Outreach
To address the physical challenges faced by individuals struggling with addiction, acupuncture and magnetic therapy have been effectively used to alleviate withdrawal-related ailments. In more severe cases, individuals are referred to government hospitals for advanced care.
Sr. Philo, with unwavering commitment, has conducted over 20 awareness programmes in partnership with World Vision, educating rural communities across Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, Mandapeta, and Kapileswarapuram on the ill effects of alcohol.
Through a combination of counselling, alternative therapies, and continuous follow-up, more than 500 families have been supported on their path to recovery. Remarkably, many of those who overcame addiction now help others by referring new cases, creating a self-sustaining cycle of transformation.
Sr. Philo’s zeal and compassion continue to inspire as she works tirelessly to heal lives and uproot the problem of addiction from its very core.