Hartford HealthCare’s recent inauguration of the Ridge Recovery Center in Windham is a significant step in addressing the pressing issue of substance use disorder. The ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 21, 2023, marked the beginning of a new era for individuals grappling with substance abuse. With a powerful vision in mind, Jeffrey Flaks, the President and CEO of Hartford HealthCare, expressed his enthusiasm for the long-awaited facility, highlighting its capacity to deliver top-tier recovery care and expand the program for substance use needs.
The Ridge, scheduled to admit patients in December, is the result of meticulous planning and the transformation of the former Immaculata Retreat House into a sophisticated in-patient treatment facility set on 60 acres of scenic wooded land. This initiative is part of Hartford HealthCare’s commitment to providing exceptional care to the community with unwavering dedication to excellence.
The serene interior of the facility, radiating an atmosphere of renewal and healing, provided the backdrop for heartfelt messages from key figures at Hartford HealthCare. James O’Dea, PhD, the senior vice president of the Behavioral Health Network, emphasized the facility’s new purpose in continuing the legacy of healing and rejuvenation. His sentiments were echoed by Kristie Scott, the vice president of operations for Rushford, who emphasized the urgent need for such a facility in light of the staggering 306% increase in drug-related deaths in Connecticut over the past decade.
The magnitude of the substance abuse epidemic was further underscored by John Santopietro, MD, who revealed the significant rise in drug-related deaths, particularly opioid-related, in recent years. With statistics revealing that only one in ten individuals with substance use disorders receives treatment due to stigma or lack of access, the urgency of a facility like The Ridge cannot be overstated.
The Ridge aims to offer comprehensive recovery programs including medically monitored withdrawal management, residential treatment, and sober living accommodations. The facility boasts private single rooms with attached bathrooms, individual and group counseling, medication management, trauma-informed care, and emotional and spiritual support. Furthermore, The Ridge offers a range of recreational and fitness options, including access to a full workout center, walking trails, yoga and movement classes, and various holistic therapies.
The ribbon-cutting event was attended by esteemed leaders, including U.S. Rep. Joseph Courtney, who commended Hartford HealthCare for recognizing the need to extend vital services to rural areas. The establishment of The Ridge stands as a pivotal and meaningful step towards bridging the gap in access to treatment services.
The significance of The Ridge cannot be overstated, especially for individuals like Herbert Boyd Jr., who has experienced the challenges of substance use and is now dedicated to offering support at the facility. His words resonated hope and optimism as he shared his journey and the profound impact that the facility is set to make in the lives of those striving for recovery. With its multifaceted approach to recovery and unwavering commitment to excellence, The Ridge is poised to be a beacon of hope and healing for the community.
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