New intensive day treatment program for drug users in Kamloops

The program is available in Kamloops, Vernon, Kelowna and Penticton — the Interior communities hit hardest by the overdose crisis. The first sessions began in June.

“This new program is one element of Interior Health’s Mental Health and Substance Use strategy,” says IH Board Chair Doug Cochrane. “By offering a full range of services including outreach, residential treatment, supportive recovery, and now community-based day treatment, we are combating the ongoing overdose emergency and helping those with substance use disorders reclaim their health.”

In April, four clinicians with addictions training were hired with the goal of building a “robust, standardized and evidence-based” treatment curriculum that meets the needs of those with substance disorders. The development of the program has included input from IH’s Aboriginal Health team to ensure the needs of Aboriginal peoples are met.

The program is being funded through the Provincial Overdose Emergency Response.

The program runs five days a week in mornings or afternoons for six weeks. Groups usually include six or seven people referred through IH’s Mental Health and Substance Use central intake in the community.

Having recently completed the program in Kamloops, one client called it “absolutely amazing,” according to the release.

“With the information, skills, and tools learned from the groups, I have been able to overcome these obstacles and feel incredibly lucky, grateful, and very proud,” she says.

For information about the Intensive Day Treatment Program, contact your local IH Mental Health and Substance Use Centre.

by Ashley Legassic

New intensive day treatment program for drug users in Kamloops

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