If the feedback is any indication, some of Kevin Ford’s clients benefitted from special activities during September, which was National Recovery Month.
As director of the substance-use disorder (SUD) program at The Center for Counseling & Consultation, 5815 Broadway, Ford organized a few projects for the annual observance.
One project involved creating posters and collages related to being in SUD recovery. Clients representing Great Bend, Lyons and Larned made the artwork - both in groups and as individuals.
Examples of client feedback include:
· It was a reminder of what I have gained from recovery; to not take things for granted; and to appreciate what I have.
· It is good to have something to believe in.
· I learned from everyone’s stories.
“These comments came from one of the best groups I have counseled over the years,” Ford said. “Some clients are, shall we say, less than motivated. But once they get into it, they see the benefits.
“This recent group, however, was far less resistant from the get-go. There was lots of brainstorming that led to a real camaraderie in the group. They realized the benefits of working together for a common goal, while expressing themselves on the posters.”
The collages made by individuals were “especially impressive,” Ford added. “The theme was ‘What is Recovery for Me.’”
Some of the artwork is displayed in the lobbies of The Center’s Great Bend and Lyons offices.
In addition, clients heard from a guest speaker who shared her story of recovery.
“She really fought to get better and overcame a lot of obstacles,” Ford commented. “She ended up homeless but today is doing well and working at a productive job. Inspirational stories can be a real boost for our clients.”
Also, Ford asked The Center’s staff to provide a few treats for SUD clients during September. “They immediately stepped up to supply a few goodies. It made a real difference in clients’ outlooks because it demonstrated once again that our staff cares about them.”
SUD & families
When someone struggles with SUD, their family and friends suffer too.
“When a loved has SUD, it is devasting to the people in their lives,” Ford said. “Family and friends get sick and tired of the chaos and heartbreak.
“They also feel a loss of control because they find themselves enabling the user. Families have to hold the person accountable. You can be there for them. But you need to step back and not do things for them that they should do for themselves.”
Families also should share a message of potential recovery with their loved one, Ford suggested.
“For example, anyone struggling with SUD can reach out to our local community resources to start on the road to a clean-and-sober life,” he emphasized.
The Center for Counseling & Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.