In Wake of DPH Report, Bridge Home Stresses Role of Recovery Homes

SPRINGFIELD — A recent report delivered by the Mass. Department of Public Health showed that the opioid epidemic is particularly distressing here in the Commonwealth, where, in the span of 2013 and 2014, opioid-related deaths occurred in two-thirds of all Massachusetts cities and towns, and the total number of opioid-related deaths has more than quadrupled since 2000. More troubling, opioid-related deaths through September 2016 are already trending higher than 2015.

With opioid-related deaths in the Commonwealth at more than double the national average, the Bridge Home wishes to raise public awareness of the Springfield-based transitional living facility with the goal of changing the trend and offering support to this at-risk population.

“Like all Bay state residents, I find the numbers in the Mass. Department of Public Health report to be just heartbreaking,” said William Cosgriff, the Bridge Home’s director of education and support resources. “My sympathies go out to those who have lost love ones to the opioid epidemic. It is my resolve, now more than ever, to bring about positive change in the local community.”

To treat substance-use disorder, a chronic, progressive, and potentially fatal disease, medical professionals generally recognize several phases of treatment, including detox, short-term stabilization, and residential or outpatient services. An often-overlooked and critical phase for achieving sustained recovery is transitional living. Recovery homes bridge the gap between treatment and re-entry into the community and help this especially vulnerable population, susceptible to relapse, abstain from drugs and alcohol after leaving treatment.

“I don’t wish to say that the deaths referenced in the report were senseless; what I will say, and what is perhaps most troubling about them, is that they were preventable. With the proper tools and support structure, those battling drugs or alcohol can learn to manage their disease,” Cosgriff said. “The Bridge Home allows guests to integrate new attitudes, behaviors, and skills into their daily lives. We want to remind members of the Greater Springfield community that we are here, offering an opportunity for healing and sustained recovery.”

Applicants to the Bridge Home, located on Worthington Street in Springfield, must possess a commitment to building a sustainable recovery. Applications may be submitted by an individual, loved one, or referral source. Those interested in learning more may contact Cosgriff at (413) 301-5102 or bill@thebridgehome.com to facilitate a dialogue, schedule an appointment, or tour the facility.