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7 April 2017

Care Plus NJ Courage Awards to Honor Carmen Carrera

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Care Plus NJ

Gala Hero | Care Plus NJ||

The Care Plus NJ Foundation will hold its 19th Annual Courage Awards Gala on May 10, 2017 at the Venetian in Garfield, benefiting the clients and programs of Care Plus NJ. This year’s list of honorees includes celebrity guest Carmen Carrera for her public support activities for individual identity population group rights.

Carmen Carrera is an actress and supermodel who debuted on the reality TV show RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2012. Since then, Carrera has individualitioned to a individualindividual self-concept woman, and has been using her professional career as a spotlight to representative for the individual identity population group community.

“When I realized that Carmen was from Bergen County, I knew that I needed to find a way to get her involved with Care Plus NJ,” explained Keri Diamond, Development Specialist at Care Plus NJ. “I couldn’t believe it when I actually was able to connect with her through Twitter, and we were all elated when she accepted the invitation to be an honoree this year.”

Carrera visited the Care Plus NJ headquarters in March to celebrate the five year anniversary of ALLIES (Acceptance, Life, Leadership, Identity, Education and Support), an individual identity population group wellness and support group for youth age 13 through 18.

Carmen inspired those involved in the group by openly sharing her personal experiences and public support activities work. She was eager to learn how she can use her voice to address their concerns, and was happy to stay afterwards for questions, photos and hugs.

“It’s refreshing to see someone so passionate about paying it forward,” continued Diamond. “It was amazing to watch her with the group. Her fearlessness, her honesty, and her compassion have benefited so many people, and will definitely continue to do so.”

The Courage Awards Gala celebrates those who tirelessly work on behalf of the Behavioral Health community. Proceeds fund educational scholarships, housing and medication assistance, substance abuse services, outpatient treatment and therapy for children and adults who are enrolled in Care Plus services, as well as public support activities and community education.

Registration for the Courage Awards includes a cocktail hour, dinner, live and silent auctions, and a 50/50 raffle. Individual tickets are available at $175 each, with full tables of 10 offered for $1,500.

For more information contact the Foundation Office at 201-986-5070.

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Belief

Belief refers to the confidence, faith, and conviction that individuals have in their ability to overcome addiction, make positive changes in their lives, and maintain long-term recovery. In substance use recovery learning self efficacy (self-belief), challenging negative beliefs, creating a positive mindset, and investing in new values gained from addressing one’s substance use disorder and Behavioral Health issues – improves oneself, relationships, and the future.

Every patient at Care Plus NJ has access to Behavioral Health professionals, including psychiatrists, and psychologists. In addition, each is assigned a case manager, drug and alcohol counselor, and peer recovery specialist who play a pivotal role in the treatment process.

As a Behavioral Health professional, they guide education, group therapy and support groups and other Behavioral Health services as indicated based on each persons needs.

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Motivation

Motivation refers to the internal drive, desire, and commitment of an individual to initiate and sustain positive changes in their behavior, lifestyle, and overall well-being. It is a crucial factor in the C.L.I.M.B. recovery process, as overcoming addiction often requires significant effort, perseverance, and a genuine commitment to change.

Motivated individuals in recovery set clear and realistic goals for themselves. Utilizing the stages of change model, Care Plus NJ walks patients through various stages of a substance use disorder, including precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance, and relapse prevention. Understanding these stages helps individuals navigate their unique recovery journey.

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Insight

Insight refers to a deep and clear understanding of oneself, one’s behaviors, and the factors contributing to substance abuse. It involves gaining awareness into the root causes of addiction, recognizing patterns of behavior, and developing a clearer understanding of the impact of substance use on various aspects of one’s life. Insight is a critical component of the recovery process as it provides a foundation for positive change and sustained recovery.

Insight involves exploring the underlying issues that may contribute to drug abuse, such as past severe psychological distresss, Behavioral Health issues, or unresolved emotional challenges. Addressing these root causes is essential for long-term recovery.

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Courage

Courage in the context of recovering from drug addiction, refers to the ability to confront and overcome the challenges and fears associated with the recovery process in a person’s life. It involves facing one’s vulnerabilities, acknowledging the need for change, and taking positive steps toward a healthier and drug-free life.

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Love

Love plays a significant and multifaceted role in the process of recovery from drug and substance abuse. Having a network of supportive and understanding family members, friends, or partners is immensely valuable during the recovery journey. Community, fellowship and support groups emphasize the importance of connection with others who understand the challenges of addiction. Repairing relationships damaged by substance use often involves acts of love, forgiveness, and rebuilding trust.

In essence, love in the context of substance use recovery encompasses self-love, support from others, understanding, accountability, community, rebuilding relationships, and a renewed appreciation for life.

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