According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, nearly 15 million people ages 12 and older had an alcohol use disorder in 2019. AUD is a chronic relapsing brain disease characterized by a decreased ability to control alcohol use despite social, occupational, or health consequences. Those who have alcohol addiction are often unaware of the adverse effect their drinking has on their friends, family, and loved ones, as well as their own physical and mental health.
As the United States is faced with one of its most formidable modern challenges, the widespread infectious disease known as COVID-19, behavioral health executives and investors are faced with the question of how best to respond. There are concerns about the future of the economy and even a possible recession. These concerns are valid. In addition, people are being asked, and in some cases required, to practice social distancing to reduce the spread of COVID-19. There are various reasons, however, that now is the time to invest in behavioral health startup and program expansions.
The goal to prevent and end homelessness is ongoing across the United States. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), 552,830 people in the U.S. experienced homelessness on a single night in January of 2018. Over half of those that experienced homelessness did so in one of the nation’s 50 largest cities. [1] Reducing the number of individuals that are experiencing chronic homelessness calls for an evidence-based, compassionate, and strategic approach.
Under the best of circumstances, entering the job workforce can be an intimidating endeavor. For those individuals in early recovery from substance use disorder (SUD), it can be overwhelming. In addition to coping with the challenges of maintaining early sobriety, these individuals are faced with securing a satisfying job that pays a living wage and can support their recovery efforts. They have most likely been out of the workforce for an extended period and might have a criminal record or are facing legal issues that create a barrier to finding gainful employment. Further, finding suitable affordable housing and establishing addiction recovery support services are critical to successfully maintaining employment.
At Ascension Recovery Services (Ascension), we are experienced in the development of programs to integrate these individuals back into society and the job market through a financially sustainable job training and workforce reintegration program specific to SUD. Our expertise includes providing job training and placement opportunities, securing safe and affordable housing options when needed, and connecting individuals with wrap around peer support services. Ascension believes those in recovery deserve the support necessary for a seamless and successful transition back into their communities, and we are here to help.
OCTOBER IS SUBSTANCE ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH
In 2011, National Substance Abuse Prevention Month began as an opportunity to recognize the importance of addiction awareness and prevention. It provides an opportunity to highlight the vital role of substance use prevention for individuals and communities alike. It is also a time to remember those who have lost their lives to substance abuse. Ascension Recovery Services (Ascension) encourages prevention efforts to ensure the health of teens and young adults.
National Recovery Month is held every September to bring awareness to substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and mental health services. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) defines recovery as a process of change where individuals improve their overall health, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.
Recovery Month celebrates the positive progress brought forth in recovery. This month reinforces the message that treatment is effective, and people do recover. Every individual in recovery has a story of their journey.
One client, Kevin, began his journey with Ascension when we were contacted to facilitate an intervention. Since then, he has worked hard to continue in his recovery and become a source of hope for others. In honor of Recovery Month, Kevin shares his story.
Often, families with loved ones who are struggling from addiction feel they have tried all of their options to help their loved one. Families attempt to control their loved one’s substance abuse through efforts such as talking with their loved one about their use, managing their environment, participation in previous detox or treatment attempts, etc. An individual experiencing a substance use disorder may undergo a variety of treatment options.
As a healthcare provider, it is your duty to help family members and those affected by addiction to find the right care option that best fits their unique treatment needs. There are different forms of therapy that can be explored with an individual.
Addiction is a chronic, progressive disease that gets worse over time if not treated properly. Recovery is not easy, but it is possible. At Ascension Recovery Services, our encouraging and certified team of professionals are here to help you. We can contribute to your loved one’s recovery through our customized treatment solutions.
Our clinical professionals can provide an intervention, assessments and other services needed to make the appropriate recommendations on what type of treatment your loved one should receive. Long-term recovery success rates increase when treatment programs are paired with extended maintenance programs for recovery integration.
Ascension Recovery Services offers program development services for individuals and hospital systems that are creating substance use disorder treatment programs. One of the main questions that our clients ask is, “Which service should I offer?”
To answer this question, it is important to understand which services are appropriate for an individual, the location of the services and a client’s budget. Seeking treatment is the first step in beginning the road to recovery for substance use disorder, but it can be confusing to know where to start. With different levels of care, it is necessary to understand which one is appropriate for an individual’s situation and needs. The continuum of care includes services such as:
- Detox
- Residential Treatment
- Partial Hospitalization
- Intensive Outpatient
- General Outpatient
- Sober Living
What sets your organization apart? At Ascension, we believe that receiving national accreditation can be the deciding factor on helping your business stand out. Read on to learn why.
