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1 May 2018

Recovery Specialist Macs Stout Recognized with Courage Award

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Care Plus NJ

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The Care Plus NJ Foundation will hold its 20th Annual Courage Awards Gala on Wednesday, June 6, 2018 at the Venetian in Garfield to benefit the clients and programs of Care Plus NJ.

As the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year, the Gala celebrates those who tirelessly representative on behalf of the Behavioral Health community. This year, Marie-Alice (“Macs”) Stout is being honored for courageously facing her own addiction, and for using that strength to guide others through the path of recovery.

“The director of the Care Plus NJ Addiction Services Division recommended Macs as an honoree this year,” explained Keri Diamond, Associate Development Director at Care Plus NJ. “She has worked closely with her throughout her recovery and was inspired by her story.”

Macs has completed the Addiction Services continuum of care at Care Plus NJ, and the staff that she had worked with commented that Macs is a constant source of motivation and strength for those she serves.

In working for the Center for Alcohol and Drug Resources through Children’s Aid and Family Services, Macs serves as a Recovery Specialist for the “Opioid Overdose Recovery Program” of Bergen County. In this position, she provides peer support to individuals struggling with addiction. Macs has also been involved with programs like “Operation Helping Hands,” the “Heroin Addiction Recovery Team” program and the “Not Even Once” curriculum speaking at Paramus and Garfield High School student.

“Not only does she value and express gratitude to Care Plus NJ for helping through her darkest times, but she also shares a passion to pay it forward,” Diamond continued.

Macs has recently begun a full time position at Blue Crest Recovery Center as a Counselor Intern, where she will be able to fulfill her career goal in become a Drug and Alcohol counselor, while still being deployed as a Recovery Specialist. All of her work entails helping the still sick and suffering.

Proceeds are dispersed over many important channels, including: educational scholarships for those enrolled in Care Plus NJ services, housing and medication assistance, substance abuse services, outpatient treatment and therapy for children and adults, as well as public support activities and community education.

For more information, to sponsor or register please visit the event website or contact the Foundation Office at 201-986-5070.

Donate today to make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

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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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