Lydia has found encouragement and guidance through the Addiction and Mental Health Supportive Housing Program. Her support worker, Tasha, has walked alongside Lydia as she has built a new life.
The first time Lydia tried crack cocaine, she was hooked.
“I did crack once, and I was addicted. It was an instant downhill from there.”
Lydia had turned to drugs to numb the anxiety and panic triggered by recurring memories of a childhood trauma. She was in her mid-30s with a job, a family and a home – all of which she left behind as the pull of drugs became stronger on her life.
Lydia, now 54, has been clean and sober for nine years. She has a lovely, well-kept apartment and regularly bakes muffins for her grandchildren.
But at the height of her addiction, Lydia was lucky to find a couch to sleep on at night. She had been to jail a few times and lived a life that didn’t include anything other than surviving.
One day, however, she had what she calls her “aha” moment.
“I was sitting there, with a bunch of people in a dingy room and it just hit me. My life had to change.”
Lydia started every single program she could think of. She was in Alcoholics Anonymous, going to multiple meetings a day, as well as a House of Friendship residential treatment program. Her days were filled with going from one place to the next. Meetings not only helped fill the time, but helped her stay clean.
Lydia also found support through Concurrent Health Supportive Housing at House of Friendship. With help from her worker, Tasha, Lydia has been able to find and keep housing, as well as develop a plan for her life.
Lydia has gone back to school, completing courses at Conestoga College, and has relearned life skills she lost during her addiction – simple things like living on a budget, as well as more complex tasks, such as filling out paperwork or continuing her goal of improved mental health – an ongoing struggle.
“Sometimes I see Tasha three times a week,” said Lydia. “It’s so nice to know that someone is there for me.”
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