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Resident Story: Coltin S.

August 8, 2024

I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to Pathfinders and the amazing staff that makes it all possible. Pathfinders were there for me when I had no one else to turn to and in serious trouble. They provided me with not only a safe space and roof over my head but a healthy environment to get away from my old friends and my old lifestyle. I had knowledgeable people to talk to and down-to-earth counselors to give me great advice and make me feel like I was part of a family. As much as I tried, I could not break my old patterns on my own, but this was something different. Honestly, I was a little bit apprehensive at first and had a hard time admitting I was an alcoholic and a drug addict, and to sum it up.. helpless. I was introduced to the 12 steps and a sponsor who helped me understand and navigate these steps. I quickly adopted a new routine consisting of structure and punctuality. Not being a morning person, it was quite a change. I was waking up before the sunrise and doing my chores which was something I could never accomplish on my own. During our group sessions, we would plan our days from waking up to the time we went to sleep. This helped me tremendously. I was given just enough time and freedom to slowly readjust to normal life and before I knew it, I had a job and my family wanted me in their lives. Next thing I knew covid 19 hit the world like a ton of bricks. I lost my job, and the world was in chaos. People I knew who previously had their lives together were now alcoholically drinking and acting like the world was coming to an end. Thankfully, I had the tools I learned at Pathfinders and the people around me to keep me on the right track. During all of this, I was dealing with a serious court case. The pathfinder’s staff made sure to get my progress reports to the right people and always reassured me I was in good hands. It was not easy but I knew I had no other choice. I had to stay sober, and I could not let myself or anyone else down. I felt nothing but love and encouragement from the staff and my fellow pathfinders. Once completing the Pathfinder program, I easily transitioned to their onsite sober living facility. I recommend this program and the staff to anyone who wants to get sober and stay sober. Pathfinders are the real deal.

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Resident Story: Santi G.

August 8, 2024
When I got to Pathfinders, I did not know what to expect. I had been to two rehabs in years past where the target client as LGBTQ, so I was a little timid and hesitant, but my spirit called me to Pathfinders, nonetheless. I was pleased to discover that the staff was very welcoming, open-minded and made me feel like I was part of their family/brotherhood. My experience there was different from the past treatment programs. The staff really took the time to not only show me sympathy but were very empathetic and understanding when it came to sensitive matters and when it came to my interests and my program. They pointed me in the right direction whenever I felt lost and lifted me up whenever I felt low. They were very open and receptive whenever I needed to express my feelings and they allowed me to process growing pains in a safe environment. Anytime I needed a shoulder to cry on…and there were plenty, someone was there to help me through it. I thank my spirit guides every day for leading me to Pathfinders. If it were not for the staff and the brotherhood that they provide, I don’t think I’d be in the same state of mind. Anytime that I feel lost or alone, I know that I can call them and be greeted with love on the other end. Anytime I miss them, I know that I can stop by and be greeted with open arms. In my many years of feeling fearful of the unknown, I now know that it does not matter that I’m gay; I am considered a brother among brothers at Pathfinders and a brother among brothers in recovery. Thank you, Pathfinders, for showing me another way. Santi G. 
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Resources for Families Coping with Mental and Substance Use Disorders

August 8, 2024
Every family is unique, but all families share a bond that can be used to support one another during trying times. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for helping a family member who is drinking too much, using drugs, or dealing with a mental illness, research shows that family support can play a major role in helping a loved one with mental and substance use disorders. When a family member is experiencing a mental or substance use disorder, it can affect more than just the person in need of recovery. Evidence has shown that some people have a genetic predisposition for developing mental and substance use disorders, and may be at greater risk based on environmental factors such as having grown up in a home affected by a family member’s mental health or history of substance use. Families should be open to the options of support groups or family therapy and counseling, which can improve treatment effectiveness by supporting the whole family. It is also important to remember that the unique challenges that come from helping a loved one with a mental or substance use disorder can be taxing, so caregivers should take steps to prioritize their own health as well. Family members may be more likely to notice when their loved ones are experiencing changes in mood or behavior. Being able to offer support, family members can connect those in need with treatment, resources, and services to begin and stay on their recovery journey. For more information related to this article please visit: Resources for Families Coping with Mental and Substance Use Disorders | SAMHSA 
A man and a woman wearing face masks are hugging each other.

Considerations for the Care and Treatment of Mental and Substance Use Disorders in the COVID-19 Epidemic

May 7, 2020
COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus spread by the respiratory route and contact with contaminated surfaces. It appears to be highly contagious and has a significant morbidity and mortality rate. Because these attributes are known and because this agent has been identified as responsible for a global pandemic, it is essential that behavioral healthcare facilities implement plans to protect patients and staff from infection to the greatest extent possible. The following are offered as considerations aimed at decreasing the likelihood of infection and viral transmission and providing for the behavioral health needs of patients. There are many options for treating mental and substance use disorders which have an evidence base and/or are best practices. These include inpatient, outpatient and residential treatment options. Because of the substantial risk of coronavirus spread with congregation of individuals in a limited space such as in an inpatient or residential facility, SAMHSA is advising that outpatient treatment options, when clinically appropriate, be used to the greatest extent possible. Inpatient facilities and residential programs should be reserved for those for whom outpatient measures are not considered an adequate clinical option; i.e.: for those with mental disorders that are life threatening, (e.g.: the severely depressed suicidal person or persons with life threatening substance use disorders (e.g.: at high risk for overdose, complications from withdrawal). It is recommended that intensive outpatient treatment services be utilized whenever possible. Comprehensive long term residential treatment programs, where COVID related precautions can be implemented (social distancing, isolating, testing, etc.) remain a viable treatment option when clinically indicated. CDC has released guidance on the expanded use of telehealth services. SAMHSA strongly recommends the use of telehealth and/or telephonic services to provide evaluation and treatment of patients. These resources can be used for initial evaluations including evaluations for consideration of the use of buprenorphine products to treat opioid use disorder. Further, these resources can be used to implement individual or group therapies such as evidence-based interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy for mental and/or substance use disorders. For inpatient/residential programs that plan to remain open during the current COVID-19 related emergency; care should be taken to consider CDC guidance on precautions in admitting new patients, management of current residents who may have been exposed to or who are infected with COVID-19, and visitor policies.  For more information on this and similar articles, please visit: Coronavirus (COVID-19) | SAMHSA
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