Finding peace through recovery

With support, education and practical advice in the ResetLife program, people experiencing the challenges of alcohol and other drug addiction are making positive changes in their lives.

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Alcohol and Other Drugs
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Judah* wondered what he was getting himself into as he signed up for the ResetLife program. He had been experiencing addiction but with ongoing support, he was able to take the next step in his recovery journey.

Tools for life

ResetLife is an alcohol and other drug treatment program funded by SEMPHN, provided at no cost to consumers. It’s unique in that as an intensive outpatient rehabilitation program, participants in ResetLife can continue to work, attend school and/or live at home while they are receiving treatment. 

ResetLife offers long-term support to people over the course of one year. The first 16 weeks include structured, intensive treatment including therapy sessions, support groups, education about addiction and weekly, randomised drug tests (to inform treatment, not to exit participants from the program). Following completion of the intensive program, ResetLife provides 36 weeks of continued care and support through group meetings and social groups for youth. 

“ResetLife gave me a lot of confidence, strength, support, encouragement and hope. It’s a group that I wouldn’t change for the world and a safe space to voice my opinion without being judged,” said Judah.

When reflecting on the therapy sessions, Judah explained that it provided him with a better understanding of what he was going through. 

“I gained a lot of information that I’ll forever use in my day-to-day life to stay abstinent. I gained confidence and determination with myself to know that I can do anything I put my mind to.”

Take a look at the stats:

Infographic statistics about alcohol and drinking in the SEMPHN region

Branching out to support local communities

By 2021, the ResetLife program had been offering support to local communities for three years. The program first opened its doors for adults at Peninsula Health in Frankston. Since then, the program has expanded to other areas to offer support to the broader community. ResetLife is offered by First Step in St Kilda and by Taskforce in Cranbourne. Young people aged 11–25 can find support in the ResetLife Youth program in Moorabbin, also delivered by TaskForce. 

Judah can see the value of the ResetLife Youth program. “I felt privileged and blessed to have been part of the program and wish that I could have done it back when I did detox when I was younger.”

Since completing the ResetLife program, Judah has made positive changes in his life and has been drug-free for a year and a half. 

“I have gained a lot, which I am truly blessed for. I’m a year and a half drug-free, have started a small business, bought my dream car and have a warm, loving, family home. I have come to peace with my past mistakes and gained confidence, strength, determination, faith and wisdom to keep getting better,” he said.

For people considering making a change in their life, Judah offers this bit of advice: “Anything is possible if you put your mind to it. Determination is key if you really want it. Just don’t give in or give up.”

*Name has been changed to protect the privacy of this ResetLife participant. 

More information

If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s alcohol or other drug use, contact the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015 or visit drughelp.gov.au

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