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The winner's group: a self-help group for homeless chemically dependent persons
J B Bennett1, A Scholler-Jaquish
1New Outlook, Glass Substance Abuse Program, Baltimore, MD, USA.
Summary
Nontraditional nursing programs can help homeless individuals with chemical addiction by offering adaptable care. These programs aim to instill hope and demonstrate that recovery from substance abuse is possible, even with complex health needs.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Practice
- Public Health
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Homeless individuals with chemical addiction face unique challenges unmet by standard treatment programs.
- Co-occurring health and mental health conditions strain resources across multiple sectors.
- Difficulty in tracking and inconsistent follow-up care hinder treatment efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the adaptability and flexibility of nursing practice in addressing the needs of homeless chemically addicted individuals.
- To explore the effectiveness of a nontraditional program in fostering lifestyle changes and recovery.
- To highlight the importance of accessible healthcare for this vulnerable population.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of the 'Winner's Group' program within an inner-city soup kitchen.
- Nurses utilized creative methods to meet diverse patient needs.
- Focus on instilling hope and knowledge regarding recovery potential.
Main Results:
- Program demonstrated adaptability in meeting diverse needs.
- Outcomes varied, with some individuals showing positive lifestyle changes and others continuing to decline.
- Efforts were made to foster a belief in the potential for change and recovery.
Conclusions:
- Nontraditional programs are crucial for accessing healthcare for homeless populations with substance abuse issues.
- Nurses require specialized knowledge regarding substance abuse and its impact.
- Recovery from chemical dependency is possible, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions.