Individuals in treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) and mental health conditions benefit from participating in a thriving recovery community. Creating an inclusive space focused on successful recovery helps clients grow and develop essential life skills. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), "Recovery-oriented care and recovery support systems help people with mental and substance use disorders manage their conditions successfully, sustain long-term recovery, and lead full lives in our communities." The mental health and addiction experts at Driftwood Recovery use compassion, peer engagement, and evidence-based treatments to create an inclusive community where people heal and thrive.
What Makes an Inclusive Community?
Every person working in a treatment facility plays an essential role in making the space comfortable, welcoming, and inclusive. Clinicians, management, and support staff collaborate to create an environment where clients and their families feel safe engaging with others and opening up about their own struggles.
Some of the tools healthcare workers use to foster a welcoming environment include:
- Nonverbal cues like open body language, smiling, and eye contact
- Mindful and trauma-informed language
- Program policies and procedures aimed at providing clients with a safe space
- Active listening, honest communication, and transparency
- Encouraging peer support through community events and activities
Every client has unique medical needs, personal preferences, recovery expectations, and cultural or religious beliefs. Healthcare workers must identify factors impacting each client's treatment and recovery. Driftwood Recovery uses comprehensive assessments and other tools to identify and address all factors contributing to a person's mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. The personalized approach makes clients and their loved ones feel heard and valued. People who feel respected are more likely to show respect to others, creating a supportive community.
Providing Personalized Care
Meeting clients where they are today by providing personalized care helps create a welcoming and inclusive environment. Healthcare workers experienced in providing addiction and mental health treatment create customized treatment plans designed to provide the best outcomes. According to Frontiers in Psychiatry, "Knowledge of long-term recovery after substance use disorder (SUD) is essential to personalized care." Staff members work together to create a cohesive and positive treatment experience for clients. Personalizing therapy and other aspects of treatment allow clients to become more active in their own treatment by providing preferences and goals.
Tailored treatment plans may include the following:
- Self-help groups
- Prescription medication
- Individual and group therapy
- Alternative holistic treatments
- Aftercare planning
- Case management
Staff use practical methods to personalize the client experience. Clinicians collaborate with clients and their loved ones to determine what services may provide the best outcomes. Focusing on a whole-person approach to treatment helps foster a sense of community by delivering tailored support to individuals in recovery.
The Benefits of an Inclusive Community
Social isolation and a sense of alienation are common for individuals recovering from substance abuse or mental health issues. The symptoms and side effects of their condition may cause people to feel separated from their peers. Inclusive communities help people develop a sense of belonging. Interacting with others who share similar life experiences provides clients with nonjudgmental social support.
Some of the benefits of creating a welcoming community include:
- Reduced stress for clients and clinicians
- Clients have additional opportunities to communicate their needs
- Staff approach clients with a sense of curiosity and compassion
A community environment motivates people to take a larger role in directing their treatment. In addition, many clients find it easier to ask for assistance during moments of emotional distress if they have developed a genuine relationship with peers and the care team. Healthcare workers promote a healthy environment by normalizing conversations about mental health and addiction recovery.
Better Treatment Outcomes and Fewer Relapses During Continuing Care
People often experience a relapse if they lack social support or the skills to successfully manage their condition. Staff members are responsible for identifying potential relapse triggers and finding positive ways to address them. Clients are provided with resources, psychoeducation, and skill development during every level of care. Social engagement improves the outcome of treatment programs by offering clients real-world situations where they can practice self-care and coping skills. In addition, peers hold clients accountable for their choices and reduce the risk of relapse by motivating people to utilize the tools they learn in treatment.
How Does Driftwood Recovery Create an Inclusive Community?
Staff members at Driftwood Recovery practice honesty, integrity, and transparency when communicating with clients and their loved ones. Creating a solid foundation of trust and understanding is the first step in developing an inclusive and welcoming community. Clients and staff are encouraged to share their thoughts, experiences, and concerns. Individualized care provides clients with additional support and an opportunity to collaborate with peers and clinicians.
Ensuring Healthcare Workers and Clients Feel Heard
Healthcare workers cannot establish a welcoming and inclusive treatment environment unless they feel comfortable and supported in their roles. Driftwood Recovery reinforces this inclusive environment through community events, staff meetings, and other activities. Staff members have the opportunity to provide input on policy changes to ensure a more cohesive treatment experience. Management considers each staff member's preferences, goals, and skills when developing community events and activities. Everyone plays a role in creating a family-like environment where staff and clients feel heard and supported.
A sense of community helps individuals heal from the effects of substance abuse. Positive interactions with peers and the care team facilitate skill development and personal growth. Most people participating in treatment programs have symptoms or co-occurring disorders impacting their ability to make social connections. A healthy and nurturing community environment provides people with a safe space to practice social and communication skills. Driftwood Recovery encourages clients to become part of a thriving recovery community. Spending time with others who share similar life experiences can improve the effectiveness of treatment and reduce the risk of relapse or future mental health issues. To learn more about how we create a welcoming community, call us today at (512) 759-8330.