For anyone struggling with addiction, the path to recovery can feel long, isolating, and at times, overwhelming. Addiction doesn’t only impact a person’s physical health; it often disrupts their sense of identity and their place in the world. This sense of disconnection can make the journey feel daunting, as the emotional isolation becomes just as overwhelming as the addiction itself.

But here’s some news: forging connections can be the antidote to this isolation. It is through forming meaningful relationships, rebuilding a sense of community, and feeling supported that individuals find the strength and courage to overcome addiction.

National Addictions Awareness Week is an opportunity to reflect on the many challenges faced by those struggling with addiction. It is also a time to recognize that recovery is possible - especially when individuals are met with understanding, compassion, and support.

The barriers to forging connections are both external and internal. These barriers can make it harder for individuals struggling with addiction to seek the help they need, but it’s here that empathy and understanding play a vital role.

It is, therefore, crucial to provide a safe, and non-judgmental space for individuals to rebuild their sense of self-worth and create the connections that are critical to recovery. We must recognize that the paths to recovery are not just about stopping substance use but about re-connecting - with others, with a sense of purpose, and with a community that truly cares.

The ARCH Model: A Holistic Approach to Addiction Recovery

Streetohome recognized the gap in recovery services for Indigenous people who often relocate in an attempt to access these services in cities far from their home communities – only to be faced with fragmented care, long waitlists, and a real risk of homelessness.

To address the issue, we worked with North Wind Wellness Centre (NWWC) to adapt the ARCH model in Pouce Coupe, BC. This model integrates housing and care - providing a full continuum of support in the local community.

ARCH is Addiction Recovery Community Housing, and it provides a framework for supporting individuals at every stage of their recovery journey. This project will be the first in Canada to integrate all four recovery stages in one complex. Here’s how it works:

• Early Recovery Housing will provide living spaces for people waitlisted for addiction treatment. Withdrawal management, structured programs, recreational and social activities will be coordinated to ensure individual engagement. Connection will be maintained until the individual moves into Addiction Treatment Housing.

• Addiction Treatment Housing will entail a 12-week program that includes Western Medicine, Indigenous Traditional Healing Practices & Ceremonies, a Therapeutic Community approach, physical activity, and vocational training. It will be culturally safe, spiritually respectful, and trauma, violence, and gender informed.

• Recovery Supportive Housing will provide a home for up to two years after graduation from ATH. Graduates can focus on education, vocational training, and employment - building their recovery capital. They may also take advantage of continuing care options including individual or group support as needed to strengthen their ‘recovery toolbox’.

• Recovery Community Centre (The Junction) will create opportunities for people in recovery to support one another including navigating system supports, advocacy, and fellowship. Low-cost, peer-operated services (including mutual aid groups, peer mentors, social and recreation opportunities) that support continued connections to a positive peer group and a sense of belonging.

Why ARCH Works: A Roadmap to Recovery

The beauty of the ARCH Model is that it doesn’t just address addiction in isolation. It recognizes that recovery is multi-faceted, involving emotional, physical, and social well-being. ARCH ensures that every aspect of a person’s recovery is supported, not just their substance use.

As we reflect on National Addictions Awareness Week, it’s important to remember that recovery is a journey that no one should have to take alone. The strength to overcome addiction is often found in the connections we make - with our home communities, our families, our friends, our coworkers, our groups, and with those who have walked the path before us.

For more information on the ARCH Model and how we’re supporting individuals on their recovery journey, visit our web page. Let’s continue to work together towards a connected, supportive future.