The current state of the world can be very overwhelming. Between financial issues, health concerns and isolation from loved ones, our worlds have been turned upside down. All of this can take a toll on our mental and physical health. For someone who is already struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues, this pandemic can lead to an even worse downward spiral. National Recovery Month in September is a reminder that those who are suffering can live a healthy rewarding life with the proper help, care and guidance.
With the COVID-19 epidemic, other topics, like the raging opioid epidemic, dropped from the headlines. Unfortunately, substance abuse did not go away. If fact, it has become just as much of a public health issue as the coronavirus pandemic. More than 20 million Americans have a substance abuse disorder. In Broward County, for example, two people die on average every day due to an overdose. These alarming statistics highlight the vital need for substance abuse and mental health programming, especially during these trying times.
House of Hope, a leading non-profit provider of substance abuse and mental health programming, is dedicated to providing hope and healing to men and women with addiction problems. Established in 1969, House of Hope serves more than 600 men and women in both a residential and outpatient setting. House of Hope plays a critical role within the continuum of care and offers second chances to those with no other alternatives.
A non-secure residential facility, House of Hope utilizes a Modified Therapeutic Communities Model, which is a treatment approach for those whose substance use disorders co-occur with mental disorders. We provide a highly structured residential environment in which the primary goals are the treatment of substance abuse and mental health while also fostering personal growth and accountability. Residential programming includes therapy, 12 step meetings, medical services, psychiatric services, job skills, life skills and aftercare opportunities.
House of Hope also has a full-time medical coordinator and care coordinator that ensures our clients have their required prescriptions, schedules and coordinates transportation for psychiatric and medical appointments and sees that all other behavioral and physical needs are met through collaboration with community case managers and licensed medical professionals.
In addition, House of Hope offers intensive outpatient services. The goal of the outpatient program is to provide substance abuse treatment and support which consists of weekly therapeutic groups and individual sessions. Additional programming includes AA/NA meetings, life skills training and open process groups.
The main goal is to help our residents recover and return to the community as productive and self-supporting citizens, thus reducing dependence on government support or a life of crime. Many men and women who arrive at House of Hope are experiencing homelessness, indigence or have exhausted all their personal and financial resources. All these factors create enormous obstacles to receiving formal education or career training, finding gainful employment and securing stable and affordable housing.
Throughout their time at House of Hope, clients learn and practice basic life skills. These skills are essential for each individual as they work to build a new life that is free from drugs and other substances. While some instruction is facilitated by House of Hope team members, we collaborate with community partners to deliver life skills on such topics such as self-care; planning and cooking nutritious meals; setting and achieving personal goals; maintaining a clean-living space; managing finances; building healthy relationships; time management; and finding and maintaining employment.
Recovery is a life-long journey and continued support is needed. Even after clients leave House of Hope, lines of communication remain open and recovery services are available. Post-treatment resources are designed to guide clients through the early challenges of rebuilding their life while sober.
As we all adjust to the new normal, this very vulnerable population needs support now more than ever. Treatment facilities and programming play a crucial role in helping decrease the startling statistics. House of Hope is dedicated to these men and women and is proud to rebuild lives, reunite families and strengthen the community. We hope you will consider supporting our community initiatives.
