New community-based addiction support services in Lyon County brings Hope for the Holidays as overdose deaths reach record highs during pandemic

YERINGTON, Nev. — Individualized and group support services for people and families impacted by addiction and mental health are now available for free in Yerington, Fernley, and Dayton through Foundation for Recovery, a community nonprofit led by volunteers and staff in recovery from substance use and mental health themselves.

Through the Building Communities of Recovery project, funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, trained peer recovery support specialists are offered to local organizations to expand their addiction and mental health services available to the public.

In-person, individualized recovery support is available in all three cities on the following days and times:

Yerington
Every Tuesday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Located at the Yerington Library, 20 Nevin Way, Yerington, NV 89447

Fernley
Every Thursday from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Located at the Fernley Branch Library, 575 Silver Lace Blvd., Fernley, NV 89408

Dayton
Every Friday from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Dayton Valley Branch Library, 321 Dayton Valley Rd., Dayton, NV 89403

Live individualized recovery support is also available via phone from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

“As a person in recovery from substance use disorder, working directly with someone who understands where I’m at in my life because they’ve been through similar situations makes a huge difference. It’s like having someone to advocate for me and my recovery and help me organize my life and reach my goals. The pandemic has created a lot of isolation, and with the recent overdose and suicide numbers increases, we’re hoping people will reach out and talk with someone like me, who’s struggled themselves.”

John Newell - person in long term recovery, Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist, Building Communities of Recovery project at Foundation for Recovery.

Earlier this month, the National Drug Helpline placed Nevada and 27 states on “red alert” status for increased risk of death from overdose. The CDC reported on December 17 overdose deaths, exacerbated by the global pandemic, have climbed to record highs, indicating that approximately 81,230 drug overdose deaths occurred over the most recent 12-month reporting period.

“With the current reality of having to socially distance, many of us are finding it difficult to stay sober, sane and mentally fit especially with the added stressors we face with the Holidays upon us. Addiction is rooted in disconnection and isolation - long term recovery for many is rooted in connection and thrives in community. The importance of finding ways to stay connected, to witness living examples of what is possible and to have support to navigate this all is crucial. The work I do is to help turn our isolated struggles into a community of strength. WE rise by lifting others! Working with others who are in recovery helps us to realize we can turn our pain into our purpose and show that recovery is possible. I can’t do it … but WE can.”

Cindy Farnes - person in long term recovery, Peer Recovery Support Specialist, Building Communities of Recovery project at Foundation for Recovery.

Peer Recovery Support Services, individual coaching sessions with a trained person in recovery from addiction, is now available in several rural Nevada communities. Available in person, over the phone or via a videocalls using the Zoom platform. The peer recovery support specialist (PRSS) works directly with people in or seeking recovery and helps them reach their goals, find resources, make appointments, and acts as a mentor and companion during the recovery journey. Peer Recovery Support Specialists are also able to train people and concerned loved ones how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose. PRSS are used in a variety of settings from community centers, hospitals, community court programs, addiction treatment facilities, and transitional living and housing programs. Incorporating peer recovery support services has shown to significantly reduce substance use, recidivism rates, and hospital admissions.

Foundation for Recovery is also offering peer led recovery meetings in person and accessible over the Zoom Monday - Friday. If you are new to online meetings, we are a great training ground. We are a supportive group of people, open to anyone in recovery, with any length of sobriety and from any behavior or substance that no longer serves them. Our ALL RECOVERY MEETINGS are inclusive and supportive of all paths of recovery.

Monday – Thursday at 12:00: https://zoom.us/j/95499560721
Monday nights at 4:30 p.m. https://zoom.us/j/98587405430
Friday at 12:00: https://zoom.us/j/95625447853

Community members can find more information by contacting Foundation for Recovery directly at (702)530-0055, via email BCOR@forrecovery.org or visiting us at www.FORRECOVERY.ORG

FFR is Nevada’s first and only statewide recovery community organization (RCO) led and governed by representatives of local communities of recovery. FFR works to foster a safe and supportive environment for recovery focused education, peer support services and engagement, addressing social barriers and creating opportunities for those seeking and maintaining long-term recovery.