Wellness is not just about being free from illness; it’s about making choices that lead to a healthy, fulfilling life. Gateway believes that supporting a culture of wellness helps people to enjoy their journey and keep going. When individuals thrive, it also strengthens the whole community.
Patient Wellness
Addiction and other mental health concerns can affect many areas of a person’s life. The most commonly reported negative effects include: ​
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Loss of significant relationships/social isolation
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Neglect of responsibilities
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Violence and abuse
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Legal issues
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Physical injuries from accidents
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Disease transmission through unprotected sex or intravenous drug use
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Physical health deterioration due to personal neglect
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Mental health/substance abuse issues
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Suicidal thoughts and attempts
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Unemployment/problems at school
It may be the negative health consequences of the substance use or mental health concern that spurs their movement into recovery.
"In addiction, we give up everything for one thing. In recovery, we give up one thing for everything." - Anonymous
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA, 2022) recognizes recovery as a self-directed process of change to improve health and wellness in order to reach one’s full potential.
Therefore, Gateway believes that integrating the 9 Dimensions of Wellness into a person’s treatment program can help repair the lingering impact of substance use and mental health concerns and improve their overall health, connection to the community, sense of confidence, and chances of long-term recovery. Wellness in Recovery is supported by Gateway’s Wellness Coaches, Patient Wellness Perks, and Community Connections.
Wellness Coaches
Gateway patients can work individually and in group settings with Wellness Coaches to explore the 9 Dimensions of Wellness, participate in wellness challenges and experiences, and work together to set goals and see progress.
Patient Wellness Perks
Active Gateway patients who have a need and meet criteria will have access to a number of wellness perks. The purpose of these perks is to break down barriers and increase access to support, resources, and creative opportunities. Some examples include, but are not limited to:
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The Patient Needs Program which gives individuals a hand up when they are in a tough spot.
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Hygiene kits for patients who are going to residential treatment or have immediate needs.
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Free notary services.
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Wellness Challenges and experiences that create awareness, excitement, support, and intentionality around the 9 Dimensions of Wellness.
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Spiritual support from Gateway volunteers who think about, hold space, and pray for Gateway patients. A person does not need to prescribe to a certain God, religion, or belief system to participate.
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Benefits through Gateway’s partnership with ReStore, Shawnee Family YMCA, and The Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art.
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Restoring Smiles Dental Grant where local dentists, volunteers, and Gateway treatment providers work together to eliminate barriers to comprehensive dental care and restore the healthy smiles of uninsured Gateway patients with the goal of improving health, boosting employability, enriching relationships, and sustaining recovery. View the Restoring Smiles brochure.
“Before Restoring Smiles, I had the same dentures for 14 years. I was ashamed to eat in front of people out of fear that they may come out or break.
Now, I can eat a variety of foods and feel more confident. I have gone back to school and also received my Peer Recovery Support Specialist Certification.” - Alicia
Community Connections
At Gateway, we believe that the opposite of addiction is not sobriety. “The opposite of addiction is connection.” - Johann Hari. When people feel a sense of safety, belonging and purpose with life giving people, places, and things, they are less likely to turn to a drug, drink, or unhealthy coping skill to find acceptance and relief. Therefore, Gateway provides a number of opportunities for Gateway patients and their family members to become more involved in their community both during and after treatment.
