Nawajeewan has been working among female users of drugs and alcohol since 2004. In Nepal, there were only 2 other residential rehabilitation programmes for females; one in Kathmandu with a 3 month programme and one in Pokhara with a 3-6 month programme. Nawajeewan runs the only 1 year residential programme for female drug and alcohol users in Nepal. Both the residential center and outreach programme provide a safe and supportive environment for women seeking freedom from drugs and alcohol addiction. Nawajeewan aims to help women who are dependent on drugs and alcohol and rehabilitate them to normal social life by providing them with opportunities such as basic treatment, psycho-social support and skills for livelihood.
The Nawajeevan Programme includes two sub programmes.
1. Outreach programme
Reaching out to women with drug and alcohol addiction in the community by providing education on drugs and alcohol, support, counselling, (individual and family) and motivation to seek treatment and maintain recovery. Drug and alcohol awareness programmes among teenagers and communities.
2. Residential Programme
11 bed residential center with a 1 year programme divided into three phases.
First phase – The initial three months phase is focused on detoxification and remaining abstinent from the uses of drugs and alcohol. Various therapies along with education have been designed to support the clients. Use of medication is not encouraged unless necessary and prescribed by specialists. The residence is fully abstinent- no tobacco, alcohol or illicit drugs are allowed.
Second phase – The next 6 months are a development phase for personal growth and future planning. The clients skill and interests are discovered and potential plans for future self-sustainability are identified. If needed, training is sought and provided.
Third Phase – The final three months is intensively focused on restoration of relationships and normal social life. Parents or other responsible persons are contacted, supported, educated and prepared to accept the client back to her family and community. The client’s confidence is built up and trained on relapse-related issues.
Follow-up programme:
Regular follow-up is carried out with the clients and their families after their discharge from the residential programme. The follow-up is needs based and aims to continue follow-up up to three years after discharge from the residential programme.
This programme aims for the following major outcomes:
- Increased awareness of drugs and alcohol abuse among communities and teenagers.
- Women with drugs and alcohol dependency access treatment and rehabilitation.
- Increased involvement of communities and families in the treatment and rehabilitation of women with drug and alcohol abuse.
- Increased number of women maintain recovery and experience good relationships with others and a productive life in their communities following rehabilitation.
- Decreased number of women with drugs and alcohol dependency in the community.
Stories
Sarita Lama, 32 years old from Kavre. She has one son and daughter. She was a drug and alcohol user. Her life was full of tragedy and struggle. But she continue to struggle and fight for herself and for kids.
