Kennesaw State’s Center for Young Adult Addiction and Recovery started a new support group in February for families and individuals who have lost a loved one to substance abuse.
The group, Grief Recovery After Substance Passing, provides a community of support for students to safely share their experiences and connect with others, according to CYAAR executive director Teresa Johnston.
Those impacted by substance use disorders, overdose and subsequent behaviors can often experience feelings of isolation, and support groups emphasize that no one is alone in those experiences.
“Individuals and families can expect compassion,” Johnston said. “Groups of this kind are beneficial because it helps to provide an avenue for sharing grief, remembering loved ones and learning how others may cope.”
More than 64,000 Americans died from drug overdoses in 2016, including illicit drugs and prescription opioids, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Safe outlets for the families and individuals affected by substance abuse are a prime need.
“Support groups offer companionship and understanding from others who have experienced a similar loss,” according to bereavement counselor Patti Cox. “In a culture that often avoids talking about loss, support groups give you the opportunity to share your story openly and guilt-free.”
The CYAAR provides other services such as individual counseling for substance misuse and dependence, associated process addiction counseling, such as gambling and eating disorders, recovery support meetings, sober activities and a full collegiate recovery program.
“If a loved one is suffering with a substance use disorder, I find that being direct is helpful,” Johnston said. “Saying something like, ‘I really care about you and your drinking or using is getting in the way of our relationship. Would you consider making some changes?'”
GRASP meets on the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. in University Village on the Kennesaw campus.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration also provides a free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information helpline for individuals and families facing mental or substance use disorders at 1-800-662-4357.
For more information about substance abuse and the CYAAR, email recovery@kennesaw.edu.
