“After ten years in addiction, I was just stuck. I didn’t believe that I could do anything and I didn’t like where my life was headed,” shares twenty-six year old TROSA resident Briana.
Briana discovered TROSA while searching the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) online treatment finder. Searching for free treatment programs, she was drawn to TROSA’s structure, evidence-based services, and the opportunity to learn and practice new life skills.
Therapeutic community assignments at TROSA’s Lawn Care and Education departments have been instrumental in Briana’s recovery, providing her with the time, space, and opportunities to actively learn and practice living life in recovery. Briana has participated in several counseling groups and classes, including Healthy Relationships, Grief & Loss, and Rational Behavioral Therapy.
“In my community assignments, I’m learning professionalism and how to work with others. People trust me to help other residents. I am currently the education coordinator. I help residents sign up for college classes and GED tests.
“Overall, I now have the tools to deal with life. I’m forming connections. I’m learning about boundaries. I’m learning techniques to ‘let go’ of negative thoughts and feelings. I’m finding my self-worth. I’m learning that I am smart and capable; but that it’s also OK to make mistakes. This is a safe place to learn how to live life without drugs.”
Daily activities and interactions with peers and staff help shape Briana’s treatment plan, where she has identified key goals: “Working on my confidence and communication skills are big goals for me,” she shares.
TROSA is providing Briana with comprehensive services to address her needs for home, health, purpose, and community– SAMHSA’s four major dimensions of recovery.
“I’m doing everything differently today,” she shares. “I’m waking up each day feeling good about myself and being productive. I’ve learned to love myself.”
Briana is excited to share her experiences and looks forward to achieving future goals. “I want to get my Peer Support Specialist certification so that I can continue to help others. I hope someone reading this can relate to my story and get inspired to find the help they need.”
