What Do Model Programs for Treating Mental Illness and Substance Abuse Look Like?
There are a growing number of model programs. All of them have support groups similar to AA and NA. Members support each other as they learn about the role of alcohol and drugs in their lives. They learn social skills and how to replace substance use with new thoughts and behaviors. They get help with concrete situations that arise because of mental illness. Several programs have support groups for family members and friends. The New Hampshire Mental Health and Substance Abuse Departments sponsor a program with the Dartmouth Medical School Psychiatric Research Center for the State’s 10 mental health service regions. Teams of professionals provide case management services. A New York program operates in a wide range of service settings. Treatment focuses on eliminating symptoms and developing strategies to prevent relapse. A residential rehabilitation program in a high crime and drug use area of The Bronx helps 45 homeless people who are both drug abusers and have a major mental illness
