Summary
Becoming a client of Frontline’s can happen a number of different ways – a client may call us directly seeking help or a family member may do it on their behalf. Another way is that they are referred to us from another service, such as a homeless service or a prison. Joe's* journey to recovery started when he first engaged with Frontline’s services while in prison and post-release with the goal of overcoming an addiction to benzodiazepines and methadone.
People begin their journey with Frontline in a variety of ways. Some clients contact us directly to seek support. In other cases, a family member reaches out on their behalf. Alternatively, another service, such as a homeless service or a prison, may refer them to us.
Joe’s* recovery journey began while he was in prison. At that time, he engaged with Frontline’s services and took the first steps towards change. After his release, he continued to work with the service. His goal was to overcome his addiction to benzodiazepines and methadone and build a healthier future.
A LONG HISTORY OF ADDICTION
Joe had a long history of drug use that began in his late teens when he first used heroin. By his early twenties he was being prescribed methadone and later began using benzos, deepening his dependence on substances.
BEGINNING THE RECOVERY PROCESS
Every recovery journey is unique. After first engaging with Frontline, Joe went through a period of disengagement. However, he later reconnected with the service with a clear goal: to complete a detox and become substance-free.
By that stage, Joe had already started detoxing from prescribed benzodiazepines with the support of his GP. He was also attending a Benzodiazepine Support Group. However, he continued to use street tablets and knew he needed additional support.
As a first step, Joe attended individual key-working sessions. During these sessions, he worked with his support worker to develop a personalised care plan. Together, they identified key goals for his recovery. These goals included accessing residential treatment to support detoxification from methadone and benzodiazepines and to begin rehabilitation.
Next, Frontline submitted a referral to Merchants Quay Ireland’s programme at St Francis Farm. A few weeks later, Joe completed the assessment process.
To secure a place in treatment, Joe needed to meet a number of admission requirements. Therefore, he stayed in regular contact with MQI and provided updates on his progress. Throughout this period, he remained focused on meeting the requirements and moving forward with his recovery.
FUTURE PLANS
Joe has now completed the detox and rehabilitation programme and is substance-free. He is attending a drug-free day programme and a SMART group – this provides him with additional support during his recovery process.
He is also looking forward to getting back into full-time employment.
If you or a family member need support with drug or alcohol issues, you can contact us here or phone 01 4736502 to make an appointment. We have locations in Bluebell, Inchicore and the North Inner City of Dublin and we are open Monday – Friday.
Read more client case studies here.
*The client’s name has been changed to protect their anonymity.
