OSU Launching Program To Help Those Dealing With Addiction During The Holiday Season

OSU's National Center for Wellness & Recovery is offering an addiction support program to help Oklahomans navigate the holiday season.

For most people, the holiday season is a joyous time of year, but health experts say it can also be a difficult season for those who are struggling with addiction.

Organizers said that’s why Hope Network is so important.

The mission is to help friends and family better understand addiction and learn coping skills to become a healthy resource for their loved ones facing addiction.

It's a free 12-week program that meets once a week virtually.

The program will focus on strategies that encourage loved ones to seek recovery and create a space for healing and wellness for them during a challenging journey.

Hope Network will also assist in mending relationships, encouraging forgiveness, and improving communication skills.

Dr. Kelly Dunn is the Executive Director of Hope Network.

She said recovery is a marathon, not a sprint, and the program will focus on teaching caregivers to take care of themselves on that journey.

"Often family members just want to take care of a loved one and help their loved and neglect they neglect their own self-care. So, it's really important to take care of yourself during this often-long journey,” said Dunn.

The program will meet each Monday night from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. through the holiday season.

Anyone is welcome to join at any point in the 12-week program.