When a loved one is struggling with substance use, family members often feel helpless, unsure of how to offer support without enabling harmful behaviors. Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) is a proven, evidence-based approach that empowers families to foster positive change while prioritizing their own well-being.

SummitStone Health Partners is committed to providing compassionate, research-backed support for families facing substance use challenges. Through services like Peer Support Services and Case Management, we help families apply CRAFT principles and navigate the journey toward recovery together.

What Is Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT)?

CRAFT is a structured, skills-based approach designed to help families and friends:

• Encourage a loved one to seek treatment voluntarily
• Improve communication and strengthen relationships
• Reduce conflict and stress at home
• Prioritize self-care while supporting recovery

Unlike traditional intervention models, which can sometimes feel confrontational, CRAFT focuses on positive reinforcement and behavioral strategies to guide loved ones toward change. Research has shown that CRAFT is highly effective in increasing treatment engagement for individuals with substance use disorders—without using ultimatums or coercion.

How CRAFT Differs From Traditional Approaches

Many families wonder how CRAFT compares to other support systems like Al-Anon or traditional interventions. While all approaches aim to help families, they differ in their strategies:

• Traditional interventions often involve a direct confrontation, where loved ones express their concerns and encourage immediate treatment. While this method can work for some, it may push others away.
• Al-Anon focuses on personal detachment from a loved one’s addiction, encouraging family members to find peace regardless of whether the person struggling with substance use seeks help.
• CRAFT, in contrast, is an active, skill-based method that teaches family members how to motivate and support their loved ones in seeking treatment while maintaining a healthy relationship.

“[The CRAFT] environment has really helped me remove the shame and help[ed] me open up and be more honest with myself and others. That’s been a huge learning experience for me, just to see that I’m not alone.” – Elizabeth (name changed to respect privacy)

How SummitStone Supports Families

At SummitStone Health Partners, we understand that families play a crucial role in a loved one’s recovery. Our services align with CRAFT principles, providing hands-on support through:

Peer Support Services

Our Peer Support Specialists offer guidance based on their own lived experiences with substance use and recovery. They help families develop skills to communicate more effectively, set healthy boundaries, and support their loved ones in a positive way.

Case Management

Navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with substance use challenges. Our Case Management team connects families with treatment providers, support groups, and other essential services to ensure they have access to the resources they need.

“When I entered the program, boundaries were something that I really lacked,” she said. “The program has helped me build physical boundaries—how I interact with my loved ones—and emotional boundaries—really confronting and labeling how I’m feeling or how I handled a certain situation. What I’ve learned from this program is how to communicate my boundaries in a healthy way and really stand up for myself.” 

Frequently Asked Questions About CRAFT

Is CRAFT available at no cost?

Yes! CRAFT resources are freely available to families who want to learn how to support a loved one. Many organizations, including SummitStone, provide guidance in applying these principles.

Does CRAFT require my loved one to participate?

No, CRAFT is designed specifically for family members and friends of individuals struggling with substance use. The focus is on your actions and how you can positively influence change.

Can CRAFT help even if my loved one doesn’t want treatment?

Yes. CRAFT helps families develop communication strategies that increase the likelihood of a loved one seeking treatment on their own. Even if they aren’t ready for treatment yet, CRAFT techniques can improve relationships and reduce stress in the household.

Can CRAFT be beneficial for families of all ages?

Yes! Whether you are supporting a teenager, an adult child, a spouse, or an aging parent, CRAFT strategies can be adapted to different family dynamics.

What if I’m not in contact with my loved one right now?

Even if you’re not currently in touch with them, CRAFT can help you build skills that strengthen future interactions. The approach focuses on long-term positive change, even when direct communication isn’t possible.

Take the First Step Toward Healing – Get Help Today

If your loved one is struggling with substance use, you don’t have to face it alone. CRAFT provides the tools to support their recovery while also prioritizing your own well-being.

“The problems that we’re facing are deep, deep-rooted, and they’re not going to fix themselves. Just coming in with ease and grace and really embracing the community that’s been built helps each and every group member.” 

For general information on CRAFT, please visit the Behavioral Health Administration’s website, where you can also find a CRAFT group and connect with professionals offering virtual or in-person sessions across Colorado.

• Loveland:
  • Sign up by calling Gloria at 970-473-4335
• Fort Collins:
  • Sign up by calling Sara at 970-657-0498

We encourage you to take the next step towards positive change. Reach out today to learn more about these programs and how they can support your family’s journey.

Struggling with substance use can feel isolating and overwhelming, but it’s important to know you’re not alone. Substance use isn’t simply a personal choice—it’s a deeply complex brain disorder that alters the way the brain functions, often beyond an individual’s control.

Repeated exposure to substances can fundamentally rewire neural pathways, disrupting a person’s ability to regulate emotions, make sound decisions, and control behavior (National Institute on Drug Abuse [NIDA], 2020).

The Brain and Substance Use

The brain functions as a highly intricate network of neurons that communicate through chemicals called neurotransmitters. Addictive substances and behaviors disrupt this communication, overstimulating the brain’s reward system and creating lasting changes.

The three key brain areas impacted by substance use are:

• Basal Ganglia: This area regulates pleasure and motivation. Addictive substances flood the basal ganglia with dopamine, producing intense feelings of euphoria. Over time, the brain adapts by reducing its sensitivity to natural rewards like food or relationships, increasing dependence on substances to experience pleasure (NIDA, 2020).
• Extended Amygdala: Responsible for managing stress and anxiety, the extended amygdala becomes overactive during withdrawal, leading to heightened discomfort. This state drives individuals to continue to use to temporarily relieve distress, perpetuating the cycle of substance use (NIDA, 2020).
• Prefrontal Cortex: Critical for decision-making, impulse control, and self-regulation, the prefrontal cortex weakens under the influence of substance use. This impairment makes it harder to resist cravings, resulting in compulsive behaviors and poor decision-making (NIDA, 2020).

The Science Behind Substance Use

Substance use isn’t about lacking willpower—it’s a complex brain condition where substances hijack the brain’s natural reward system. When someone uses drugs or engages in addictive behaviors, their brain releases large amounts of dopamine, creating powerful connections between the substance and feelings of pleasure. As this pattern continues, the brain becomes less responsive to everyday sources of satisfaction like food, social interactions, or hobbies. Consequently, the individual increasingly seeks out the substance, driven by neurological changes that prioritize addictive behavior over natural rewards (Yale Medicine, 2022).

Why Does Relapse Happen?

Relapse is common because substance use alters the brain’s memory and motivational systems. Environmental cues or emotions associated with substance use can trigger cravings, even years after quitting. This “learned reflex” underscores the chronic and addictive nature of substance use and the importance of sustained support.

Understanding Substance Use’s Complexity

Jack O’Connor is someone recovering from addiction whose story was featured in an NPR article by Jack Rodolico (Anatomy of Addiction: How Heroin and Opioids Hijack the Brain, 2016). As a teenager, Jack experimented with substances and quickly became dependent on the euphoria they provided.

Despite multiple attempts to detox—more than 20 over three years—and even joining the Marines to escape his substance use, Jack struggled with repeated relapse. According to Dr. Seddon Savage from Dartmouth College, opioids activate the same brain regions that govern basic survival instincts, hijacking memory, motivation, and self-control.

Today, Jack is sober, thanks to comprehensive treatment and strong support systems. Reflecting on his experience, Jack shared, “I loved the way I felt high, but now I love how I feel sober.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or substance use, don’t wait to take that first step. Your path to recovery and a better future begins with asking for help.

The Science of Recovery: Neuroplasticity and Hope

The brain’s ability to adapt, called neuroplasticity, offers hope for recovery. While the changes caused by substance use are significant, they are not irreversible. Recovery involves both physical and psychological processes that help the brain rebuild healthy connections.

Neuroplasticity presents a powerful mechanism for healing. Through deliberate practice, individuals can disrupt damaging neural connections that drive substance use and rewire the brain using healthier thoughts, feelings, and behaviors (Altamira Recovery, 2023).

Key Recovery Strategies:

• Therapeutic Interventions: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) help individuals manage cravings and rebuild healthy thought patterns.
• Medications: Treatments like naltrexone and buprenorphine address withdrawal symptoms and restore balance to the brain’s chemistry.
• Healthy Habits: Exercise, mindfulness, and social connections naturally boost dopamine levels, reducing dependency on substances.
• Support Systems: Peer and community support provide stability, accountability, and encouragement throughout recovery.

Recovery is not a one-time event but a lifelong process. By addressing the underlying neurological changes caused by substance use, individuals can regain control over their lives.

How Treatment Helps Heal the Brain

While substance use can significantly alter the brain, recovery is possible through comprehensive treatment. At SummitStone, we use evidence-based approaches to address both the neurological and emotional aspects of substance use.

Key Services Include:

• Withdrawal Management (Detox): A safe, supportive environment with medical care and therapy to ease the transition into recovery.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Combines medications and therapy to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
• Peer Support Services: Connects clients with trained specialists who share lived experiences, fostering hope and accountability.
• Group Therapy: Offers structured support for adults, adolescents, and families, led by trained psychologists.
• Telehealth Services: Secure, virtual therapy sessions allow individuals to receive care remotely.

By combining these therapies with holistic approaches like yoga and vocational support, we help individuals rebuild their lives and restore brain function.

How Treatment Helps Heal the Brain

While substance use can significantly alter the brain, recovery is possible through comprehensive treatment. At SummitStone, we use evidence-based approaches to address both the neurological and emotional aspects of substance use.

Key Services Include:

• Withdrawal Management (Detox): A safe, supportive environment with medical care and therapy to ease the transition into recovery.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Combines medications and therapy to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
• Peer Support Services: Connects clients with trained specialists who share lived experiences, fostering hope and accountability.
• Group Therapy: Offers structured support for adults, adolescents, and families, led by trained psychologists.
• Telehealth Services: Secure, virtual therapy sessions allow individuals to receive care remotely.

By combining these therapies with holistic approaches like yoga and vocational support, we help individuals rebuild their lives and restore brain function.

Substance use profoundly impacts the brain, altering its ability to regulate emotions, make decisions, and experience pleasure. These changes underscore the importance of understanding substance use as a medical condition, not a moral failing. Through targeted treatment, such as the services offered by SummitStone, individuals can heal their brains, regain control of their lives, and move toward lasting recovery. Substance use recovery starts with reaching out. If you or someone you care about is battling substance abuse or recovering from addiction, seeking help is the first crucial step toward healing.

Get Help Now

 

 

References

National Institute on Drug Abuse. (n.d.). Drugs, brain, and behavior: The science of substance use. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/substance use-science/drugs-brain-behavior-science-of-substance use

Rodolico, J. (2016, January 11). Anatomy of substance use: How heroin and opioids hijack the brain. NPR. https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2016/01/11/462390288/anatomy-of-substance use-how-heroin-and-opioids-hijack-the-brain

Yale Medicine. (2022, May 25). How an addicted brain works. https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/how-an-addicted-brain-works

Altamira Recovery. (2023). Neuroplasticity in recovering the brain. https://www.altamirarecovery.com/neuroplasticity-recovering-brain/

As the new year begins, it’s an excellent opportunity to focus on building habits that promote mental wellness. Mental health is an essential part of overall well-being, and small, consistent actions can make a big difference over time. Whether you’re looking to improve your mental health or maintain it, here are some actionable tips to start the year strong.

1. Prioritize Sleep

Getting enough quality sleep is fundamental to mental health. Poor sleep can exacerbate stress, anxiety, and depression. To improve your sleep hygiene, try the following:

• Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends.
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or meditating.
• Limit screen time before bed to reduce exposure to blue light.

According to the Sleep Foundation, adults should aim for at least of 7 hours of sleep per night. Ensuring restful sleep is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to support your mental health.

2. Connect with Others

Social connections play a vital role in mental wellness. Engaging with family, friends, or support groups can help reduce feelings of isolation and build a sense of community. If you’re struggling to find connection, consider SummitStone’s Peer Support Services. These services connect you with individuals who have lived experience and can provide understanding and encouragement.

3. Move Your Body

Regular physical activity is a powerful tool for improving mental health. Exercise releases endorphins, which can boost mood and reduce stress. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or a gym session, aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days of the week. The Mayo Clinic highlights that regular exercise can also improve sleep and increase self-esteem.

4. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness involves focusing on the present moment without judgment. This practice has been shown to reduce stress and improve overall mental well-being. Simple ways to incorporate mindfulness into your daily life include:

• Deep breathing exercises
• Meditation apps like Headspace or Calm
• Journaling to reflect on your thoughts and emotions

If you’re new to mindfulness, start with just a few minutes a day and gradually increase your practice.

5. Seek Professional Support When Needed

It’s important to recognize when self-care isn’t enough. Seeking professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness. SummitStone offers Telehealth Services that make it easier to access care from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re seeking therapy, medication management, or support for substance use, help is just a click away.

6. Establish a Healthy Routine

Having a structured daily routine can bring stability and reduce feelings of overwhelm. Start by setting realistic goals for your day, such as:

• Preparing balanced meals.
• Scheduling regular breaks during work or school.
• Creating time for hobbies or activities you enjoy.

Building a routine provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment, which can significantly impact your mental health.

7. Limit Screen Time

Excessive screen time, particularly on social media, can negatively impact mental health. Consider setting boundaries, such as:

• Designating screen-free times during meals or before bed.
• Using apps that track and limit screen time.
• Curating your social media feeds to focus on positive and inspiring content.

8. Fuel Your Body with Nutritious Foods

What you eat can affect how you feel. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can boost your energy levels and mood. Consider consulting with a nutritionist if you’re unsure where to start.

Take the First Step

Adopting healthy habits for mental health doesn’t happen overnight. Start small and build on your successes. Whether it’s prioritizing sleep, seeking support through SummitStone’s Peer Support Services, or accessing our Telehealth Services, there are many resources available to help you thrive. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey, and even small steps can lead to meaningful progress. If you’re ready to get started, reach out to SummitStone today and take the first step toward better mental health.

Need some mental health tips for the holidays this year? The holidays can be a joyful time, filled with family gatherings, festive traditions, and the spirit of giving. However, for many people struggling with mental health challenges, the holiday season can also bring increased anxiety, stress and feelings of loneliness.

At SummitStone Health Partners, we understand the holidays can be a difficult time for many. That’s why we’ve compiled these mental health tips to help you navigate the season with greater ease and prioritize your well-being. First, let’s explore why people might feel depressed and anxious during this time of year.

The Holidays and Mental Health Challenges

For many, the holiday season is a time of joy and celebration. However, it can also be a difficult time for those struggling with mental health challenges. The pressure to feel happy and joyful, coupled with increased social demands and potential family conflicts, can exacerbate feelings of depression, anxiety and loneliness.

• Depression: For some, the holidays can trigger feelings of grief and loss, particularly if they are experiencing the first holiday season without a loved one. The festive atmosphere can also heighten feelings of isolation and loneliness, especially for those who are single, estranged from family or experiencing difficult life transitions.

• Substance Use: Unfortunately, substance use also tends to increase during the holiday season. The increased availability of alcohol at parties and social gatherings, coupled with the pressure to relax and “let loose,” can contribute to excessive alcohol consumption. For some, the holidays may trigger a relapse into substance use as a way to cope with stress, anxiety or difficult emotions.

It’s important to remember these experiences are not uncommon. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or substance use during the holiday season, know that you are not alone. Here are some mental health tips to combat and even avoid some common coping mechanisms of depression and anxious feelings during the holiday season.

1. Set Realistic Expectations and Boundaries

The pressure to create a “perfect” holiday can be overwhelming. In fact, according to an article in Psychology Today, “the concept of “holiday perfectionism” has even been studied. Research in the Journal of Happiness Studies reveals that people who set overly high standards for their holiday experiences often report more distress and less overall satisfaction throughout the season. This mental health tip focuses on letting go of unrealistic expectations and prioritizing your own needs during the holidays.

• Acknowledge that “perfect” doesn’t exist: Let go of the pressure to create a picture-perfect holiday. Focus on creating meaningful moments and experiences, even if they’re imperfect.
• Schedule time for yourself: Amidst the holiday hustle, make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. This could include reading, taking a warm bath, spending time in nature, or simply enjoying a quiet moment alone.
• Learn to say “no”: It’s okay to decline invitations or set boundaries to protect your mental and emotional well-being.

2. Practice Mindfulness and Self-Compassion

Stress can have several effects on your health and well-being. Mindfulness and self-compassion are essential tools for navigating stress and emotional challenges. This mental health tip for the holidays explores how to cultivate these practices.

• Engage in mindfulness practices: Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help you stay present and reduce feelings of anxiety.
• Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Acknowledge your feelings without judgment and be gentle with yourself during challenging times.

3. Connect Authentically with Loved Ones

The holidays are a time for connection, but it’s important to focus on quality over quantity. This step emphasizes the importance of authentic and meaningful connections. Being present and engaged helps you feel gratitude for the moment you’re in.

• Quality over quantity: Focus on meaningful connections with loved ones rather than the number of social engagements.
• Open and honest communication: Share your feelings and needs with trusted loved ones.
• Limit social media: Avoid comparing your holiday experiences to the idealized versions often portrayed on social media.

4. Prioritize Physical Health

The holiday season can be a whirlwind of social events, festive meals and late nights. It can feel challenging to maintain healthy habits amidst the excitement and distractions. However, prioritizing physical health is crucial, especially during times of stress. Exercise, quality sleep and a balanced diet aren’t just about physical fitness; they have a profound impact on our mental well-being.

When we engage in physical activity, our bodies release endorphins, natural mood boosters that can combat feelings of anxiety and depression. Regular exercise can also improve sleep quality, which is essential for emotional regulation and cognitive function.

Furthermore, a balanced diet provides our bodies with the nutrients they need to function optimally. When we nourish ourselves properly, we have more energy to cope with stress, better focus to navigate social situations and a more stable mood overall.

Remember, it’s not about achieving perfection. Even small steps, such as taking a short walk each day, getting enough sleep, or making conscious choices about your meals, can make a big difference in how you feel both physically and mentally during the holiday season.

5. Seek Support When You Need It

Reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. This step emphasizes the importance of seeking support from your network and professional resources.

• Reach out to your support system: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about how you’re feeling.
• Consider professional support: Summitstone Health Partners offers a range of mental health services, including therapy, medication management, and support groups, to help you navigate mental health challenges. Check out all of our services here.
• Awareness is the first step. Utilize free tools for awareness to gauge your mental health around the holidays.
  • At Summitstone Health Partners we have a FREE Mental Health Screening tool. Powered by MindWise, it is completely anonymous and confidential, and immediately following the brief questionnaire you will see your results, recommendations, and key resources. Take your Mental Health Screening here.
  • Mental Health First Aid Classes: SummitStone Health Partners is helping to bring Mental Health First Aid to Northern Colorado in order to encourage public understanding of the signs and symptoms associated with behavioral health issues.  We are proud to offer Mental Health First Aid Colorado courses to help improve participants’ knowledge of behavioral health disorders, reducing the stigma, and increasing the amount of help available for those who may need it. Register for an upcoming class here.

Remember, the holidays can be a challenging time for many. You’re not alone. Be kind to yourself, prioritize your well-being, and reach out for support when needed.

November 15, 2024 – In this issue of SummitNews, we’re pleased to announce our new Chief Financial Officer, John Dowling, who comes to us with over 20 years of experience! Plus, learn earn how you can be a part of Giving Tuesday, Colorado Gives Day and much more!

 

November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor and celebrate the rich traditions, history, and contributions of Indigenous peoples across the U.S. This month provides an opportunity to learn about Native American cultures, reflect on our shared history, and recognize the ongoing contributions of Native Americans to our nation. It’s a time for education, celebration, and fostering a deeper understanding of the diverse Native American communities and their heritage.

For many, it is also a season of reflection and gratitude, offering an opportunity to pause, take stock of our mental health, and connect with practices that promote well-being.

At SummitStone Health Partners, we recognize the significance of Native American Heritage Month in fostering not only cultural awareness but also emotional healing. This month invites us to explore the intersection of gratitude, mental health, and giving back to the community.

What Native American Heritage Month Teaches Us About Healing

Many Native American cultural traditions emphasize holistic wellness, recognizing the interconnected nature of mental, physical, and spiritual health. Indigenous practices often include mindfulness, storytelling, and community-centered approaches to well-being. Gratitude is deeply woven into these traditions, offering a way to honor life’s blessings and foster resilience. These cultural perspectives offer valuable insights into maintaining mental and emotional balance, highlighting the importance of connection, reflection, and collective support.

Gratitude and Its Mental Health Benefits

Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you”—it’s a mindset and practice that can profoundly impact mental health. Taking time to reflect on the people, moments, and opportunities you’re thankful for can:

• Reduce Stress: Focusing on the positive aspects of life can decrease the production of stress hormones, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
• Enhance Relationships: Expressing gratitude strengthens social bonds and connections, fostering deeper and more meaningful relationships with others.
• Boost Mood: Grateful individuals often report higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction, contributing to overall emotional well-being.

This November, consider starting a gratitude journal or practicing daily affirmations. You might also try reflecting on “three good things” each day or expressing appreciation to loved ones. These simple practices can support your mental wellness and cultivate a more positive outlook on life. 

Giving Back: A Path to Personal Fulfillment

Native cultures often emphasize the value of community and the interconnectedness of all people. When we give back, we not only help others but also experience a sense of purpose and fulfillment ourselves.

Consider engaging in the following activities this month:

• Support Indigenous Causes: Donate to organizations advocating for Native American communities, such as the Native American Rights Fund (NARF). NARF is a non-profit organization that uses existing laws and treaties to ensure that U.S. state and federal governments live up to their legal obligations to Native American tribes
• Volunteer Locally: Support nonprofits that align with your values, including organizations advocating for mental health or Indigenous communities. NARF, for example, has been involved in various projects, including environmental protection, tribal governance, and the development of Indian law.
• Donate to a Cause: Use platforms like Colorado Gives Day to support impactful charities.
• Participate in Community Events: Connect with others through cultural events honoring Native American Heritage Month. This can help foster understanding and appreciation of Native American cultures and issues.

Mental Health Challenges in Native Communities

At SummitStone Health Partners, we are committed to providing equitable mental health care services to all individuals, including Indigenous communities in Northern Colorado. We understand that effective mental health support must incorporate Indigenous perspectives and traditional healing practices. By addressing barriers such as mistrust of government services and ensuring cultural competence among our providers, we aim to create a safe and supportive environment for our clients.

Together, we can work toward healing and empowerment for everyone, fostering a future where mental health care is accessible and responsive to all cultural backgrounds. 

Get Help Now

If you or someone you know is struggling, SummitStone Health Partners is here for you. This Native American Heritage Month, let’s honor the spirit of healing and connection by prioritizing mental health. Contact us today to begin your journey toward wellness.