Alcohol Awareness Month
April marks Alcohol Awareness Month, a time to shed light on the complexities of alcohol use and its impact on survivors of human trafficking. Many survivors grapple with alcohol and other substance use disorders, often turning to drugs and alcohol to numb the pain stemming from exploitation. Alcohol, in particular, serves a unique function. It causes individuals to tune out from overwhelming feelings, offering temporary relief from stress and trauma. For many survivors of human trafficking, if their drug of choice is not accessible, alcohol is often easier to obtain and can become a quick way to escape discomfort.
In certain social circles, drinking alcohol can be a way to make friends or fit in with workplace culture. This dynamic presents a unique challenge for the women at Engedi Refuge who are in recovery. When they step into a new community or job, especially in environments where alcohol is prevalent, they may feel disconnected or triggered. This can make it difficult for some of Engedi Refuge’s residents in phase two of our program as they seek part-time employment and begin reintegrating into society outside of Engedi Refuge.
One misconception among survivors is the belief that they can drink alcohol normally after leaving their traumatic circumstances. However, alcohol use in any amount can quickly lead to relapse and other substance use, which can be deadly. Engedi Refuge requires sober living in our three residential homes because most of the women who come to Engedi Refuge have histories of substance use. Some of the women who come to Engedi Refuge were forced to drink alcohol by their traffickers in order to entertain sex buyers. And sadly, some women do not even know the types of drugs they were forced to take by their traffickers, because substances were injected into them against their will. Several survivors need to undergo inpatient detox treatment before coming to our Safe House, so they can safely navigate their recovery journey.
Before residents arrive at the Safe House, our Substance Use Disorder Specialist conducts a comprehensive phone screening to understand each woman’s substance use patterns and recovery needs. Once in the Safe House, survivors begin attending educational classes at our Learning Center. This includes a weekly two-hour psychoeducation session with our Substance Use Disorder Specialist each Monday, where survivors learn about the science behind what is happening in their bodies and to their minds due to substance use disorders. In these classes, they learn how to navigate challenges with physical, mental, and emotional withdrawals. They also learn how to develop new healthy habits and behaviors that assist with recovery. These critical classes also delve into setting boundaries from a recovery perspective, equipping survivors with the tools to protect their well-being as they rebuild their lives. In addition to our weekly Monday class, residents can meet one-on-one with our Substance Use Disorder Specialist as needed to ensure personalized recovery support.
This Alcohol Awareness Month, let’s recognize the courage of survivors and the importance of accessible, compassionate recovery programs like the one we have built here at Engedi Refuge. Healing from trauma and substance use isn’t easy, but with the right resources and a supportive community, it is possible. Engedi Refuge stands as a beacon of hope, offering a safe, sober space where survivors can reclaim their lives and look forward to a brighter future.
Recommended Resources:
Website
If you or someone you know is struggling with Alcohol Use Disorder or another Substance Use Disorder, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for information, screening, treatment suggestions, and resources.
Videos
Engedi Refuge uses the following videos in our educational curriculum.
Western Washington Detox Centers
Books
Beyond Addiction: How Science and Kindness Help People Change, by Jeffrey Foote, Carrie Wilkens, Nicole Kosanke, Stephanie Higgs, and Holly Whitaker
You're Waiting On You: How Real Recovery Starts with You Not Them, by Brook McKenzie