School of Recovery & Restoration: A community-based substance abuse treatment and rehabilitation center

Through its residential treatment and rehabilitation center, the School of Recovery and Restoration Ò (SRR), Sano Paila provides comprehensive care, treatment, rehabilitation, counseling, and support services to individuals affected by substance abuse and mental health concerns, including the promotion of crime prevention behaviors among at-risk youth. The SRR, a pioneering community-based rehabilitation center in Nepal, is run by former drug users and formerly incarcerated individuals. With a success rate of approximately 70 percent, the SRR has successfully supported the recovery and reintegration of over 3,500 individuals with a history of substance abuse, criminal behavior, and drug-related mental health issues. The SRR is committed to providing inclusive care and ensuring compliance with guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of Nepal.

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The Guiding Light of the School of Recovery & Restoration

Core Philosophy: "Appo Deepo Bhava" - Be Your Own Light

At the heart of the School of Recovery & Transformation (SRR) lies a profound philosophy rooted in the power of natural healing and individual agency. We encourage individuals affected by substance abuse to embark on a journey of self-discovery and recovery, ultimately becoming their own guiding "role model" in life. Inspired by the final wisdom of Gautama Buddha, "Appo Deepo Bhava" – meaning "Be your own light" – the SRR transcends the conventional treatment paradigm for substance abuse.

Sano Paila envisions the SRR not merely as a rehabilitation facility, but as a transformative school that empowers individuals to gain knowledge and skills needed to manage their substance abuse and illuminate their own path towards recovery and lasting sobriety. The SRR provides an environment where individuals are encouraged to cultivate their inner strength and become their own source of light, thereby reducing the stigma associated with treatment centers and framing it as a place of learning and growth.

A Holistic and Innovative Approach to Recovery

Building upon evidence-based substance abuse treatment and rehabilitation methodologies, the SRR integrates cutting-edge and holistic techniques to ignite each individual's intrinsic motivation for recovery. Our unique approach combines therapeutic interventions with practices that nurture the mind, body, and spirit. For detoxification, we prioritize natural healing processes, abstaining from the use of opiates or other substitute medications. Furthermore, the program incorporates the wisdom of the "Twelve Steps" principles and embraces the core tenets of Narcotics Anonymous. Recognizing the profound benefits of mindful movement and inner peace, the philosophy of yoga is also deeply instilled within the SRR program, offering a powerful tool for self-regulation and healing.

The SRR's unique approach to care emphasizes a holistic model, integrating clinical, medical, spiritual, and vocational programs. It reinforces the concept of a learning process (a "school") focused on both overcoming substance abuse and returning to a healthy, functional life. This approach to recovery addresses not only the substance abuse itself but also the comprehensive rebuilding of the individual's life.

The SRR offers a comprehensive, innovative, and affordable residential treatment and rehabilitation program for individuals struggling with substance abuse and related mental health concerns. We assist them in adhering to the treatment regimen by guiding each resident through a thorough diagnosis, individualized substance abuse treatment, and aftercare plan.

School of Recovery & Restoration’s (SRR) Phases of Recovery

Guided by a holistic approach, the SRR is dedicated to treating the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. Our four-phase recovery and restoration program is meticulously designed to equip students (patients) with the tools and support necessary for achieving lasting long-term recovery. This structured journey guides individuals from the initial critical stage of detoxification through the empowering completion of an internship within SRR and valuable vocational training opportunities.

At the very heart of SRR lies the profound commitment to the complete recovery of each student (patient). This is achieved through the dedicated restoration of their physical health, emotional well-being, and spiritual life, alongside providing tangible opportunities to rebuild lives characterized by dignity and prosperity.

Every student (patient) embarks on this transformative path with our foundational Phase 1 program, and progresses through subsequent phases at a pace tailored to their individual needs and growth.

Venn Diagram (Recovery & restoration – Physical Health Emotional Wellbeing, Spiritual Life, Opportunities & Challenges)

Phase 1: Detoxification & Stabilization – Laying the Groundwork for Recovery

In this crucial initial phase, the primary focus is on the safe and effective elimination of substances from the individual's system. Simultaneously, we guide the student (patient) to gain a deeper understanding of the profound impact addiction and abuse have had on their mind, body, and spirit. A cornerstone of this phase is the collaborative development of a personalized recovery plan, charting a clear course for the journey ahead. This foundational stage includes:

• Comprehensive Admission, Medical, Legal, and Family Assessments to create a complete understanding of the individual's situation.
• Medically Supervised Detoxification to ensure a safe and comfortable withdrawal process.
• Intensive One-on-One and Group Counseling sessions to address the underlying issues driving addiction.
• Round-the-clock (24/7) access to experienced Counselor and Specialist Support for immediate needs and guidance.
• The collaborative creation of a Personalized Treatment Plan, tailored to individual needs and goals.
• Engagement with supportive peer networks through AA (Alcoholics Anonymous), NA (Narcotics Anonymous), and Celebrate Recovery Meetings.

Phase 2: Recovery, Restoration & Life Skills – Building a Foundation for Sustainable Sobriety

Phase 2 marks a significant transition into the active practice of recovery, placing a strong emphasis on the power of peer support and equipping individuals with practical tools and assistance to facilitate their reintegration into work or educational settings. This phase is also deeply committed to the continued restoration of the mind, body, and spirit, promoting profound self-discovery and personal growth. Phase 2 encompasses:

• Intensive Inpatient Care, providing a structured and supportive environment for continued healing.
• Engaging Behavior Change Communication Classes and Activities to develop healthier coping mechanisms.
• Therapeutic Physical Activities and Group Work to promote physical well-being and build camaraderie.
• Yoga and exploration of Spiritual Life Options to build inner peace and connection.
• Inspirational Role-Model Sessions led by individuals who have successfully navigated the recovery journey.
• Supportive Family and Fellowship Counseling Sessions to heal relationships and build a strong support system.
• Continued Intensive One-on-One and Group Counseling to address ongoing challenges and promote deeper self-understanding.
• Continued engagement with peer support networks through AA, NA, and Celebrate Recovery Meetings.

Phase 3: Taking Action – Reintegrating and Contributing

Phase 3 focuses on empowering individuals to take proactive steps towards reintegration into the community and developing a sense of purpose. This stage includes:

• Intensive Outpatient Care, providing continued support while allowing greater independence.
• A structured Day Care Program, offering a supportive environment for ongoing therapy and skill development.
• Targeted Educational Programming and Job Counseling to prepare individuals for successful reintegration into the workforce or academic pursuits.
• Creative outlets through Arts and Music Therapy to facilitate emotional expression and healing.
• Comprehensive Orientation to Essential Life Skills for independent living and success.
• Opportunities for Giving Back to the community, developing a sense of purpose and responsibility.
• Individualized Case Management to ensure seamless coordination of care and resources.
• Ongoing Family and Fellowship Counseling to strengthen support systems.
• Continued engagement with Peer Support networks.
• Continued participation in AA, NA, and Celebrate Recovery Meetings.

Phase 4: Job Skills & Education – Empowering Independence and Future Success

Before ‘graduating’ from the School of Recovery & Restoration, this crucial final phase of treatment and recovery is dedicated to equipping students (patients) with the practical life skills and essential soft skills necessary for long-term success. Through active participation in SRR’s comprehensive internship program, individuals gain valuable real-world experience, preparing them for meaningful careers both within and outside of the SRR network. This phase also provides a vital opportunity for students to engage in tailored educational programs as referred by Sano Paila, furthering their personal and professional development.

Furthermore, students are strongly encouraged to participate in the diverse skill training programs offered at the in-built Don Gragg Vocational and IT Training Center located at the SRR. This invaluable resource provides students with a chance to explore their interests and acquire marketable skills that can be directly applied for future job placements, providing economic independence and long-term stability.

Phase 4 encompasses:

• Development of essential Life Skills and crucial Soft Skills for personal and professional success.
• Meaningful Internships at the SRR center, Sano Paila office(s), and other relevant projects, providing practical experience.
• Access to Required Educational Programming tailored to individual needs and goals.
• Comprehensive Vocational and IT Training to develop marketable skills.
• A dedicated Employment Placement Program to facilitate successful entry into the workforce.
• Continued Individual Counseling and supportive Family Sessions to address ongoing needs.
• Thorough Follow-up and Monitoring to ensure sustained recovery and well-being.
• Continued engagement with vital peer support networks through AA, NA, and Celebrate Recovery Meetings.

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