FALL 2014
THORPE RECOVERY CENTRE
RECOVERY CENTRE
RECOVERY www.thorperecoverycentre.org
“ I came in no longer knowing who I was. This program has helped me re-connect not only with myself, but with the one I love. I am now going home with tools that I will be able to use in my journey of recovery!”
INSIDE: • 2013 Thorpe Recovery Centre AGM • The Gender Difference • Older Adults and Substance Abuse • Thorpe...how can I help out? • And more...
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THORPE RECOVERY CENTRE
FALL 2014
Women & Substance Abuse
Welcome...
“...for most, booze is a loan shark, someone they trusted for a while, came to count on, before it turned
...to the first edition of RECOVERY, a new publication from Thorpe
4
ugly.”
Recovery Centre. Addiction encompasses the whole gamut of mental, spiritual and physical sides of a human being. Our themes, articles
The Gender Difference
and images are all about enriching
Women and addiction - How has treatment changed
your understanding of the disease
over the last 50 years. What are the major differences
and reinforcing the time tested roads to recovery.
6
between men and women? What are the challenges that women face?
This edition is devoted largely to women and addiction. Since 1994 the use of illicit drugs and alcohol by
Older Adult Substance Abuse
women has virtually doubled and
The proportion of older adult admissions into
now they represent about 30% of
treatment reporting heroin as the primary substance
addicted users in Canada.
10
abuse has more than doubled since 2008.
Is Canada Working Toward Legalizing Marijuana? Will the next federal election change Canadian’s
13 If you would like to receive this publication on a regular basis please contact: Pat Henry
access for recreational use?
Change a Life, Save a Life - How Can I Help?
path@thorperecoverycentre.org
There are so many ways that you can help.
RECOVERY
Thorpe Recovery Centre P.O. Box 291 Blackfoot, Alberta T0B 0L0 www.thorperecoverycentre.org
PH: 780.875.8890
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Everything from volunteering during the week to working on a special project or making a financial donation...the need is great.
In Our Next Issue: Winter 2014 •
All in the Family, Addiction a Family Disease
•
A Walk Through the Thorpe Family Program
•
TRC’s 40th Year Celebrations
FALL 2014
THORPE RECOVERY CENTRE
“Welcome to the first edition of TRC’s newly revamped RECOVERY publication.” Teressa Krueckl Executive Director Thorpe Recovery Centre
--T. Krueckl, Executive Director
RECOVERY
publication is to help provide a
quarterly and will include features
centred
conduit of information between
on staff, ways to become involved,
individuals and families through an
our most valuable assets: Society,
upcoming events, messages from
integrated continuum of care. We
Alumni,
our Alumni and educational pieces
welcome ideas and contributions
on addiction and recovery.
from those who share our mission
our
Donors,
Funders
and
Community
partners.
As
will
be
published
TRC provides innovative, client
The purpose of the RECOVERY
in
addiction
and
Publications
are
available
by
collaborative
joining our email list at http://www.
partners or financial supporters,
thorperecoverycentre.org/join-
you are all vital to the success of
our-email-list.html or you can call
Thorpe Recovery Centre.
us at 780.875.8890 and asked to be
mental
health,
services
for
and we look forward to working
ambassadors in your communities, advocates
addiction
together to achieve it.
included in our mailing list.
Thorpe Recovery Centre
39th Annual General Meeting Wednesday, Sept 24, 2014
Overcoming Addiction to Improve Lives
Doors Open: 6:00 p.m. Turkey Dinner Meal 6:30 p.m. Please reserve your tickets by calling Thirza at 780.875.8890 or register today on-line www.thorperecoverycentre.org
Tickets: $10.00 per person
RECOVERY CENTRE
Please join us for a look at the past year. Our year end report and financials will be presented at the meeting. 3
THORPE RECOVERY CENTRE
FALL 2014
Women and Substance Abuse A Ruinous Relationship Fueled by Chemistry
From - Drink: The Intimate Relationship Between Women and Alcohol. By Ann Dowsett Johnston
Hang out in the brightly lit rooms of A.A., or in coffee shops, talking to dozens of women who have given up drinking and this is the conclusion you come to: for most, booze is a loan shark, someone they trusted for a while, came to count on, before it turned ugly. Every person with a drinking problem learns this the hard way. And no matter what the circumstances certain parts of the story are the same. Here is how the story goes. At first, alcohol is that elegant figure standing in the corner by the bar, the handsome one in the beautiful black tuxedo.
Or maybe he’s in black leather and jeans.
It
doesn’t matter. You can’t miss him. He’s always at the party -- and he always gets there first. Maybe you first saw him in high school. Many do. Others meet him long, long before. He finds his moments, some time when you’re wobbly or nervous, excited or scared. You’re heading into a big party or dance all of a sudden your stomach begins to lurch. You’re overdressed, or under-
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dressed; too tall, too short; heartsick or
fact, he knows where you live. Need
You decide you’ve had enough. You
hair-in-your-mouth-anxious.
some energy?
Doesn’t
Need some sleep?
ask him to leave. He refuses. A deal
Need some nerve? Booze will lend a
is a deal he says. He wants payback
slides up with a quick hit of courage.
hand.
You start counting on him to
and he wants it now. In fact, he wants
You grab it. It feels good. It works.
get you out of every fix. Overworked,
it all: room and board, all your money,
overstressed, overwhelmed? Lonely?
your assets, your family --plus a lot of
Or maybe you’ve fallen in love. You’re
Heartsick?
love on the side. Unconditional love.
at a wedding, a dinner, a celebration.
need him most.
matter. Booze wastes no time.
He
Booze is there when you
You want this moment to last. You fear
You do the only thing you can think to
it won’t. Just as your doubts begin to
do: you kick him out, change the locks,
get the best of you, booze holds out
get an unlisted number. But on Friday
a glass, a slim stem of liquid swagger,
night, he sneaks back in, through the
pale blond, bubbly. You take a sip and
side door. You toss him out again. He’s
instantly the room begins to soften.
back the very next day.
So do you: your toes curl a little, your heart is light. All things are possible.
Now you’re scared. This is the toughest
Now, this is a sweetheart deal.
thing you’ve ever dealt with.
You
decide to try the geographical cure: This is how it begins. And for many this
you quit your job, pull up stakes,
is where it ends. Turning 21 or 25 or 30,
relocate to a new city where no one
some will walk into a crowded room,
knows you. You’ll start fresh. But within
into weddings or graduations or wakes
And when you don’t. Suddenly, you
days, booze comes calling in the
and for them he’s no longer there.
realize booze has moved in. He’s in
middle of the night. Like all loan sharks,
Totally disappeared. Or perhaps they
your kitchen. He’s in your bedroom.
he is one step ahead of you and he
never saw him in the first place. And
He’s at your dinner table, taking up two
means business.
he doesn’t seek them out. They’re not
spaces, crowding out your loved ones.
his people.
Before you know it, he starts waking
This is how it happens.
you up in the middle of the night, But you? You’ve come to count on
booting you in the gut at a quarter to
him, this guy in black.
four.
And as the
This is addiction.
You have friends over and he
years pass, he starts showing up on a
causes a scene. He starts showing you
daily basis. Booze has your back. In
who’s boss. Booze is now call the shots.
We know being a woman in addiction is very difficult. But...we know there is HOPE! Thorpe Recovery Centre offers the environment and client centred programing necessary for women to begin their road to sobriety. • • • •
Detox program Client assessment Residential programming with a focus both on substance abuse and co-occurring disorders like trauma and depression. Individual and group counseling
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The Gender Difference
The way that men and women experience addiction has many similarities, but there are also many differences. Emotional, physical and social barriers often work against women getting the treatment they need.
1 How has addiction to drugs and alcohol changed for women over the last 50 years? Sex differences in rates of substance abuse have been consistently observed in the general population and treatment seeking samples, with men exhibiting higher rates of substance use, abuse and dependence.
However,
recent epidemiological surveys conducted
Alcohol and illicit drug use among women has virtually doubled since 1994.
in Canada and elsewhere suggest that this gap is narrowing. Although rates of alcohol and illicit drug use among Canadian women have remained relatively stable over the last five years, finding from the 2004 Canadian Addiction Survey, which was one of the most
By Serena Campbell-Barnes, MSc Addictions Counselor Thorpe Recovery Centre
comprehensive and detailed addiction surveys every conducted in Canada, suggest that alcohol and illicit drug use among women has virtually doubled since 1994. Although alcohol has remained the most common substance used by women, in recent years women have come to represent about 30% of illicit drug users, and are known to use prescription and non prescription drugs, including painkillers, sleeping pills, tranquilizers, antidepressants and diet pills at consistently higher rates than men. In fact rates of benzodiazepine use have been consistently twice as high for women than men since the 1970’s.
2
What
are
the
greatest
physiological
differences between men and women with
Women and Addiction
regards to drug and alcohol addiction? Overall women experience and perceive significantly more health problems related
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to substance abuse than men and
twice as likely to experience depression
substance
typically present in treatment with
as men, and eight times more likely
inter
medical, behavioural, psychological
if they are drug dependent.
These
substance use greatly shapes the lives
and social problems than men, despite
findings have significant implications
of women, as they are more likely to
having used less of the substance
for women who abuse substances,
use substances to regulate affect than
and having used the substance for a
as
males.
shorter period of time. Women tend to
have the potential to exacerbate
progress more quickly than men from
the health and social consequences
Substance dependent women often
initial use of an addictive substance
of substance abuse and negatively
grow up in troubled and abusive
to dependence.
affect treatment outcomes.
families
known
as
This phenomenon
telescoping,
has
been
co-morbid
psychiatric
disorders
users.
connections
where
The
emotional
associated
they
are
with
exposed
to drugs and alcohol early in life;
consistently observed among women
3
What are some of the challenges
and although substance abuse is
across all type of substances used,
that women face that their male
common in their families of origin,
including alcohol, opiates, depressants
counterparts do not?
female substance use initiation often
and stimulants. For example, research
occurs within the context of sexual
suggests that of men and women
Women with substance abuse have
or interpersonal relationships.
addicted to heroin, women are more
lives that are often characterized by
different than males, who are more
likely than men to become addicted
stark
few
likely to report experimentation or
to heroin within 1 month of initial
financial resources, low educational
peer-influence as the context for
exposure, escalate their use of heroin
attainment and unstable housing and
substance use initiation.
more rapidly, become addicted in
employment. They are more likely than
typically tend to use substances to
a shorter period of time, and seek
men to be the primary caregivers of
improve mood, increase confidence,
treatment earlier in the course of
children, despite being less financially
reduce tension, cope with substance
addiction.
secure and more dependent on family
users, use substances in isolation and
members and social welfare systems
use in their homes rather than in public
Moreover, lifetime rates of mood
for financial support. They often have
places. Gender differences have also
and anxiety disorders are significantly
life histories repeat with emotional,
been observed in the situations that are
higher among women than men, with
physical
violence
associated with relapse. For women,
and without substance use disorders.
increasing the probability that they
conditions connected with relapse
Women are more likely than men to
will use substances, use them earlier,
are living apart from one’s children,
report the onset of anxiety or mood
more often and in greater quantities.
being depressed, having a stressful
disorders before alcohol dependence
However, in a cruel twist, substance
marriage and using within the context
and there is some research that
use puts women at a greater risk for
of a sexual relationship, whereas for
suggests that in alcohol dependent
experiencing
men they include living along, positive
populations, females are more than
creating a vicious cycle for female
disadvantage,
and
including
sexual
further
abuse,
often
This is
Women
emotional affect and social pressure.
Despite the fact that women are more likely to complete treatment and remain abstinent once they enter treatment, women have a harder time accessing addiction treatment.
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FALL 2014
4 Are women more vulnerable to the
that if their addiction problem is known,
address the broader social context in
effects of alcohol?
their children will be taken away from
which women exist. So for example,
them and/or they will be judged
addressing a woman’s role as a
Females are particularly vulnerable to
harshly. This is a huge barrier to women
mother, supporting her to navigate
entering treatment. Because there is a
other systems she may be involved in,
lot of stigma associated with women’s
such as child welfare, the legal system,
substance
or financial
the physiological effects of alcohol and other drugs even at substance use rates lower/or similar to males. For example, compared to men, females develop alcohol-related liver disease after shorter periods of use and are more susceptible to cardiac problems, hypertension,
osteoporosis,
breast
cancer, gastric ulcers and brain and reproductive impairments;
they are
also twice as likely to die from alcohol related problems as men. This greater vulnerability
to
the
physiological
impact of substances make females more
vulnerable
to
dependence
use.
Consequently,
support systems and of
substance dependent women report
course addressing her mental health
more feelings of guilt and shame
needs and history of abuse.
related to their substance use and their roles as parents.
This is especially important because we’ve
really
come
to
recognize
Lastly, women are less likely to be
the significant role trauma plays in
diagnosed as having an addiction.
addiction for both men and women.
When substance dependent women
Most women who enter into treatment
seek help, they are more likely to go
have experienced some sort of trauma
to their medical doctors of the mental
such as childhood physical or sexual
health system than to substance abuse
abuse, domestic violence and/or rape.
treatment programs.
In fact, approximately 30% to 60% of women who enter treatment have
substance use.
adequate attention to the addiction
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
and will often leave women’s addiction
This is a two to three times higher rate
5 Has it been harder for women to go
treatment needs unmet.
than what we observe in men.
into treatment for drugs and alcohol addiction? Despite the fact that women are more likely to complete treatment and remain abstinent once they enter treatment, women have a harder time accessing addiction treatment due to child-care pressures, lack of money
6
avenues
Unfortunately, provide
and other problems associated with
these
may
not
So
while there is no universal definition Have treatment methods changed
of substance abuse treatment for
because of the increase of women
women, it is generally accepted that
willing to attend treatment centres?
it refers to reducing the barriers to women entering into treatment such
Historically,
addiction
has
been
as addressing the childcare and/
viewed as a male issue; this has had
or financial needs and then once in
profound implications on prevention
treatment, providing a comprehensive
research, policy and practice.
service
As a
approach
that
addresses
result traditional treatment models,
psycho-social
which are for the most part considered
women. Including parenting support,
gender-neutral, are often most relevant
sexual health and HIV prevention,
to men and do not address the unique
and integrated mental health services
pathways women experience both
that address abuse and trauma in a
into and out of addiction. In recent
gender specific environment, such as
treatment.
years we’ve come to understand that
a women-only therapy group.
Moreover, women are more likely
attention to the different and unique
and transportation problems.
Low
educational attainment and unstable employment commonly experienced by substance dependent women, also means they are less likely than men to work in industries that will pay for
this is not sufficient and we must pay
to be in an intimate relationship with someone who also uses drugs. Consequently, they typically receive less
emotional
support
from
their
partners and often less overall support from family and friends, for entering treatment.
8
issues
And many women fear
needs of women, including distinctive etiology and disease progression and the larger rational context of women’s lives. For example traditional treatment models typically considered relational issues
outside
the
scope
of
the
program, whereas now we realize that it is critical that treatment interventions
Serena Campbell-Barnes is an addictions councelor at Thorpe Recovery Centre.
relevant
to
FALL 2014
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Impaired Driving Kills More Than 90 Albertans Each Year.
Between 2008 and 2012, on average
general public all pay a tremendous
in Canada. Throughout August, 2014
each year, more than 90 people were
price for impaired driving.” - Wayne
RCMP and integrated Traffic officers will
killed and 1,480 people were injured
Drysdale, Alberta Minister of Transport.
be conducting additional Checkstops
in collisions involving a driver who had
across the province to address this
consumed alcohol in the province of
Choosing to drive while impaired by
serious problem. We want to remind
Alberta.
drugs or alcohol may result in a crimi-
drivers that there are other safe options
nal record and cost to your freedom,
such as cabs or calling a sober friend
“Drive impaired, whether by alcohol,
your dignity, your job and even your
for a ride, other than getting behind
drugs, fatigue or distraction, imposes
life or the lives of those around you.
the wheel after drinking.” - Inspector
enormous cost to our society. Fami-
Stephen Grand, “K” Division Traffic
lies, the health care system, the legal
“Unfortunately, impaired driving is still
system, insurance companies and the
the leading criminal cause of death
Impaired Driving Facts •
•
One in 5 drivers involved in fatal collisions had been
collisions. As the severity of the collision increases, so
p.m. to 3 a.m. •
Those 18 to 21 years of age were most likely to have
•
alcohol before a collision. •
The highest number of casualty collisions involving
At 0.5 blood alcohol content, the probability of being in a crash doubles.
been drinking before a collision, with male drivers more likely than female drivers to have consumed
On average, 8,600 people are convicted of impaired driving in Alberta each year.
does the likelihood that alcohol was a factor •
Most casualty collisions involving death happen on weekends, and the most likely time periods are 11
drinking prior to the crash. That compares to an average of about one in 20 drivers involved in injury
Services.
•
Even at 0.5 blood alcohol content, drivers may experience impaired judgment, lowered alertness, difficulty steering and reduced coordination.
alcohol during warmer months, from April to September, are often associated with long weekends.
Statistics courtesy of the Government of Alberta, Checkstop Promotion - 2014
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FALL 2014
The Changing Face
of Older Adult Substance Abuse Excerpts from Christina Reardon, MSW, LSW Social Work Today
The proportion of older adult admissions into treatment reporting heroin as the primary substance abuse has more than doubled since 2008.
A surprising number of Baby Boomers
top substance of choice amoung
drugs were widely available and their
are abusing drugs and alcohol into
adults, the aging Baby Boomer cohort
us had a certain allure. Another reason
their elder adult years. Take a minute
has resulted in illicit drugs accounting
is economic: Boomers are increasing
to do a quick visualization exercise.
for a growing portion of users and
their illicit use because the recession
Close your eyes and imagine someone
admissions to treatment facilities.
and its aftermath have heightened
who is addicted to cocaine, strung out
their anxiety about job security and
on heroin, or high on pot. What do
So, why are aging Baby Boomers more
retirement savings.
Finally, a third
you see? Who do you see? Do you
likely than their older counterparts
reason is emotional:
Aging Boomers
see a gray-haired grandmother? Do
to use illicit drugs?
may turn to illicit drugs to cope with the
There are three
you see a wrinkled man who is getting not.
grief and loss issues such as the death
Chances are
An increasing number of Baby
But you should, because this is
Boomers were able to function
ready for retirement?
of a spouse or the end of a career.
the changing face of elder substance
for many years despite their
The majority of Boomers who use illicit
abuse in the US and Canada.
substance abuse may be
drugs had some experience in their
entering treatment because
20’s and 30’s. An increasing number
There are approximately 78 million
their bodies are aging and
of Baby Boomers were able to function
Baby Boomers in Canada and the
they can no longer tolerate the
for many years despite their substance
US and estimates are that a Boomer
effects drugs are having on them
abuse may be entering treatment
turns 50 every seven seconds.
physically and mentally.
because their bodies are aging and
And
many of these Boomers are taking the
they can no longer tolerate the effects
abuse of cocaine, heroin, marijuana
drugs are having on them physically
and other illicit drugs into their “golden
primary reasons. One is cultural: Baby
and mentally.
years”. Although alcohol remains the
Boomers grew up in an era when illicit
and damaging effects illicit drugs can
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Despite the serious
FALL 2014
THORPE RECOVERY CENTRE
have on older adults recognizing such
physical and mental health conditions
to use drugs because of the years they
drug use often is not easy. In fact, it
that effect elders.
put in at work and in raising a family.
can be more difficult to recognize use among younger users.
However, like any person, no matter of
Many of
Even if older adults are suspected of
age or socioeconomic circumstances
the signs of substance abuse among
using illicit substances, convincing users
recovery only comes when you want
older adults, such as anxiety, memory
that they have a problem and need
it.
loss, disorientation, headaches and
to treatment can be an uphill battle.
incontinence,
Such users may believe they deserve
mirror
symptoms
of
When Old Age and Addiction Collide Carol’s Story Carol Aronberg’s story is common: she grew up outside New York City in a privileged family full of drinkers; both her parents were alcoholics and her father was a mean drunk whose verbal abuse damaged her self-esteem.
described as an approaching tidal
When Audrey came to the treatment
wave of addiction in America: older
centre she was in a wheelchair. Her
adults and members of the Baby Boom
unsteady gait caused her to walk with
generation now in their early 50’s to
fear of stumbling or falling. She was
their mid 70’s who develop addictions
covered with large black bruises and
and get sober late in life.
burns from her kitchen stove. She no longer had an appetite, so she ate little
Still, she
and was emaciated. Her skin had lost
went to college, got married, had kids
its elasticity and seemed to hang from
and started a successful business. And
her bones. Her eyes had the watery,
then, eight yours ago, her mother died
aged look of a ninety year old.
and Carol’s drinking blossomed and she expanded her repertoire to include
Once Audrey was in treatment and
drugs. Finally, after three overdoses on
weaned off the alcohol, Valium and
booze and benzodiazepines and a
Placidyl, she bloomed. She attended
pharmacopeia of her pills (“the ‘Cets”,
lectures, group therapy and a grief
she calls them - Percocet, Fioricet, the combinations of painkiller or sedative with acetaminophen), she checked into rehab. Now she has 18 months clean and sober. Here’s
the
biggest
Audrey’s Story came into treatment after her doctor
between Carol’s story and that of most alcoholics: she was 69 years old when she became an addict.
She
is part of what some analysts have
addiction
to
treatment alcohol
Her
children attended the
family program.
Audrey, a seventy year old widow recommended
difference
group.
and
for
her
mood
altering prescription drugs. Her health was failing fast, she was unable to care for herself and she suffered from deep
Audrey’s memory
improved, her appetite returned, she regained her energy and she started walking,
swimming
every day.
and
exercising
She made friends in
treatment and learned the importance of working a recovery program. Ten years later Audrey is still sober.
depression.
•
Between 1 January, 2013 and 1 July 2014 3.8% of clients treated at the Thorpe Recovery Centre were 60 years of age and over.
•
2012 study shows that 20% - 30% of people ages 75 to 85 have expereinced drinking problems.
•
3.5% of adults ages 60 to 64 report using an illicit drug.
•
People age 65 and older consume more prescribed and over the counter medication than any other age group.
Statistics Courtesy of camh Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
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THORPE RECOVERY CENTRE
FALL 2014
Addiction Does Not Discriminate Even after all the progress the recovery community has made in recent years, the stigma of addiction remains strong in our society. The question is why? There is no simple answer for this
is rich, poor, famous, unknown, man,
central nervous system depressants
question. Many of the beliefs prevalent
woman or even a child. Addiction is
and alcohol, every socioeconomic
in our society include the idea that
an equal opportunity destroyer not
group is at risk. For many, it is a slow
those with addictive disorders are
only preying on the homeless living on
progression from needing to wanting
weak, deserving of their fate and less
the streets or the people who struggle
the drug of choice. Fortunately, there
worthy of care. Many people still think
economically, but also the white
are treatment plans and therapy for
of addicts like the drunk on the side of
collared, financially secure and middle
those who suffer from this life changing
the highway with his brown paper bag
age class. Addiction to any substance
disease.
or that line up of a very shakey men
including drugs or alcohol, is more
and women waiting for the local liquor
than capable of taking control of
For more information about drug and
store to open.
one’s life no matter how “in-order” life
alcohol addiction and the programs that
seems. Addiction does not begin with
Thorpe Recovery Centre offers please call
not
a concious idea to become an addict.
780.875.8890 or check out our website:
discriminate; it does not care if one
Because of the availability of painkillers,
www.thorperecoverycentre.org
The
truth
is
addiction
does
Top 5 Robin Williams Movies to Inspire Your Search for Sobriety Addiction treatment can be very
recovery and all of the hard work that
recovery are so sharply
challenging, but inspiration can do
you’ll need to put in can be well worth
and dissimilar. Get inspired and know
so much to help you do so much to
it. Sometimes we can get inspiration
you’re headed to a wonderful place -
help you on your journey.
There is
from other sources like films, books or
the journey of recovery.
so much greatness awaiting you in
music. Let these five films staring the late actor Robin Williams (1951 - 2014)
2. Patch Adams
who also had his own struggles with
The importance placed on laughter
mental illness and addiction inspire your search for sobriety.
1. Awakenings
and positive energy with the healing process is a great theme to be inspired by. Your sobriety journey requires your hard work and dedication, but it’s
The concept of catatonic patients
also a great help to get you feeling
awakening after decades due to a
good. Positive thinking is a great stress
new treatment can be compared to
management tool and stress can be
“awakening” from the life of addiction
one of the major triggers for substance
when you finally enter the recovery
use.
process. The worlds of addiction and
12
contrasted
FALL 2014
THORPE RECOVERY CENTRE
3. Dead Poets Society Dead Poets Society focuses on the theme of living life to the fullest. When you leave the darkness of addiction and enter the light of the recovery
Is Canada working toward Legalizing Marijuana?
process, it is almost like entering a
by Mark Kennedy
new world. There are so many things you miss out on in life and so many consequences and suffering to endure while you are entangled in the world of addiction. Leave addiction behind and embrace Life.
The political debate over marijuana legalization in Canada could soon intensify, following a New York Times editorial that calls for the U.S. Federal Government to repeal its 44 year ban on pot.
4. Good Will Hunting Let
addiction
treatment
be
your
guide to finding direction in your life. Treatment can help you improve your relationship with yourself and others as well as help you see things clearly. It’s the first important stepping stone to reaching the path of your promising future.
In Canada, Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau favours a system of legalization that regulates the sale of pot and keeps it out of the hands of minors. The Liberals argue it’s a “smarter” way to deal with the issue because it would take away the pot market from organized crime and gangs, while also addressing the effects of marijuana use on individual health and communities. The governing Conservatives are firmly against legalization and have claimed in flyers distributed in some ridings that Trudeau wants to make marijuana available to kids - an example they say, of why Trudeau lacks the judgment needed to be Prime Minister. The issue is slowly bubbling away and could emerge as a hot issue in next years federal
5. Hook The classic Peter Pan themes of getting back to a youthful spirit are expressed in a modern fashion. Feel inspired by the healthy lifestyle and reinvigoration that
awaits
you
in
the
recovery
process. Clients in recovery may enjoy renewed spirits and refreshed outlooks on life and you can too!
election. “Unlike Justin Trudeau who wants to make marijuana easily available to our children, we have passed laws to crack down on those who sell drugs near schools,” Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s press secretary, Carl Vallee, said in a recent written statement. In 2012, legislation came into force that includes a mandatory six month jail term for growing as few as six marijuana plants for the purpose of trafficking, and two years in prison for those caught trafficking near a school. Justice Minister Peter MacKay is considering a proposal from the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police to all police officers to issue tickets to people caught with small amounts of marijuana. But, that is as far as the Tories seem prepared to go on softening the law. Earlier in July, Harper told supporters in Calgary that he will ask voters in next years election
Some last thoughts... It’s important to stay inspired about your recovery. Your efforts to continue to live in successful sobriety is a life long challenge. Robin Williams died far to young, yet the inspiration of his work and his ability to affect other peoples lives will never be forgotten.
to take a hard took at what Trudeau is offering them. He suggested Trudeau wants voters to “close their eyes” and dream. In 2012 the Liberals passed a resolution at their convention in favour of legalization. According to that resolution on marijuana, the government should “ensure the regulation and taxation of its production, distribution and use, while enacting strict penalties for illegal trafficking, illegal importation and exportation and impaired driving. The party also wants programs to promote awareness of the health and dependency risks of marijuana, especially amongst youth. Since then, Justin Trudeau has become party leader and has indicated he supports legalization About the Author: Mark kennedy arrived on Parliament Hill in 1988 as an Ottawa Citizen political reporter and has covered eight federal election campaigns. He won a National Newspaper Award for enterprise reporting and spent a decade specializing in health-care coverage. He is currently parliamentary bureau chief at The Ottawa Citizen.
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THORPE RECOVERY CENTRE
FALL 2014
Photo by P. C. Henry Thorpe Recovery Centre Marketing
Joceyln, Todd, Jackie, Thirza, Sara, Wendy, Fraser, Brenda, Faye - Welcome Back banner.
A diverse group of talented people helping our clients find recovery. Nurses,
to each other, to our clients and to the quality of the
Care
work we do together. We know the challenges our
Aids (CCA) - A diverse group of talented people all
clients will face. This allows us to go beyond the buzz
with a strong desire to do their jobs with the utmost
words and treatment trends to deliver strategic, best
professionalism and an equally strong commitment
practice programs that support our client’s recovery.
Thorpe
Recovery
Administrators,
Centre’s
Cooks,
Counselors,
Custodians,
Client
Career Opportunities Residental Program Nurse To provide competent, holistic care to clients of all ages. To facilitate treatment by maintaining the medical health of clients through assessment, consultation and administration of controlled, prescribed and OTC medication.
Client Care Aid (CCA) To provide residential support services to the staff and clients of TRC. Promote and participate in effective communication with other staff and clients in support of TRC’s commitment to maximize the recovery assistance provided to our clients.
Residential Custodian / Maintenance Position contributes to a team who performs custodial duties general bulding and property maintenance ensuring a safe and sanitary environment for all TRC staff, clients and visitors.
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We often have career opportunities available for full time, part time and casual positions. There are also ways that you can volunteer. For detailed information on any of these opportunities, please go to our website at: www.thorperecoverycentre.org
HR Generalist Responsible for organizing, directing, controlling and analyzing the operations of the Human Resource Department. Key areas of responsibility include policy and procedure development, human resource planning; labour relations; training and development; recruitment and selection and the analysis and improvement of HR KPI’s.
Clinical Director Accountable for the organization, development/expansion and management of Clinical Services including programming, personnel , therapy modalities, productivity and quality of client care. The Clinical Director plans for client care services with the organization to strategic objectives and priorities and for leading initiatives to raise awareness of our program.
FALL 2014
THORPE RECOVERY CENTRE
Change a life, save a Life Ways to Donate
Thorpe Recovery Centre is a non profit
I
orgnization dedicated to providing
heart.
client-centred and community based
people.
addiction services.
Our clients, both
not drunken, selfcentred crocodile
A monthly gift provides a continuous
men and women, come from across
tears. I have found the peace, love
source of funds to support the mission
Canada. Each looking for that second
and acceptance in recovery that I
of
chance at a sober life.
searched for years for the bottom of a
Monthly donations can be made
glass.”
simply through pre-authorized debit or
laugh
today,
right
from
my
I don’t shape shift to please I cry real, genuine tears,
Why Get Involved? Because of a Letter Making a Donation to Thorpe... Like This. “Drinking was everything to me.
It
cured my anxiety, animated me and was the mortar to my many cracks. It started right away, this love affair. From the very first drink, as that warm confidence sliped throgh my veins and I thought: so THIS is how normal people feel. I can’t imagine a life without alcohol. It was my everything -- until it ripped me apart. My recovery journey began in 2007 after a 30 day rehab stay. Going back to my regular life was the hardes thing I have ever done. How to be a mom without wine? How to socialize without my liquid courage? How to figure out who I am and what I want from my life. Day by day, my real self emerged. I
Monthly Giving
the
Thorpe
Recovery
Centre.
credit card charges.
In Memoriam A donation to TRC in memory of a family member, friend or loved one
...is not just about keeping the lights on
is a meaningful way to express your
or adding a new piece of equipment.
sympathy.
It is really about the people who walk through our doors and providing them
In Honour
with the best opportunity to change
Donation gifts in recognition can be
their lives and the lives of the people
made to an individual who has worked
around them. By donating to Thorpe
hard in their recovery.
Recovery Centre you help us reinforce
notification and/or thanks can be sent
the value of treatment and recovery
to the individual honoured.
A letter of
and help us stamp out the stigma of addiction in families and communities.
How to Donate There are many ways to make a
Sobriety Birthday Celebrating your own sobriety by helping
another
begin
the
more
important day of their life. An annual
donation to TRC. •
Access PayPal and Canada Helps on our website.
•
Cash or Cheques
•
Credit Card
•
Appreciation Publicly Listed Stocks
got through unimaginably hard times without my liquid crutch: the sudden death of my dad, cancer.
More
importantly, I learned to navigate everyday life totally present through emotions: boredom, resentment, anger, sadness, joy and celebration.
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THORPE RECOVERY CENTRE
FALL 2014
gift of $250 will go towards sponsoring treatment for someone unable to
We Are Not a One Man (or Woman) band.
financially support the cost. Donations
rs 0 Yea ver 4 For O
can be made in full or as a monthly
Thorpe
contribution.
RECOVERY CENTRE
Leave a Legacy A Legacy gift can be made by
The Thorpe Recovery Centre is a large facility that requires the funds, donations and hard work of many to ensure that the clients who take part in our programs get the best possible care.
including one sentence in your will. Legacy gifts will not affect your current income and may ease the burden of probate fees on your estate and can provide a tax benefit to your loved ones or next of kin.
Staff, Volunteers, Board Members, Society Members and Alumni all have a stake in ensuring the future of Thorpe Recovery Centre.
Matching Gifts Many companies will match employee donations to recognize charities. Ask your employer if they have a matching gift
program
and
double
your
organized
by
contribution.
Third Party Events Special
events
There are so many ways that you can help us out!
community groups, companies and families are a great way to raise funds for the Thorpe Recovery Centre. If you are planning a golf tournament or a
There are several items on our Thorpe Wish List. Some small, some large,
corporate event and wish to support
some simply require volunteers to help out. Please look over this list or
a not for profit organization, please
check out our website and see where you might be able help out.
consider the Thorpe Recovery Centre.
Directing Your Gifts General Fund Donating to the Thorpe Recovery Centre supports our mission and values by strengthening all of our programs. Your gift goes directly to the heart of the matter by providing broad based funding to meet longterm projects.
• • • • • • • • •
Milk & food items Light bulbs Office & art supplies Personal hygiene items Alarm clocks Bath towels Volunteers for yard work and building maintenance Yoga & meditation leaders Donated plants & trees
• • • • • •
Gym equipment Computers for the client area. Recovery related reading material Extension Cords DVD Movies Cleaning and laundry supplies
For more information please contact the information desk at 780.875.8890 or www.thorperecoverycentre.org
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