Project Recovery Evening Program, Ocean Mental Health Services’ (OceanMHS) program for people with both a mental illness and substance abuse problem, has new hours to better accommodate people who have daytime commitments.  The program now begins at 5:30 pm and runs through 8:45 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings.  Enrolled clients are always welcome to join their peers for a light dinner at 5:00 pm on program nights.

The Project Recovery Evening program is designed for people who have been able to achieve some level of sobriety, but continue to struggle with relapse and/or the symptoms of their mental illness.  “People at this stage of treatment may be working, or may have other obligations during the day.  We wanted to better accommodate their schedules, so they can receive treatment while fulfilling the other obligations they have in life,” says program Director, Stan Evanowski, LCSW. “We expect to be able to provide these valuable services to more people with the new schedule.”

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness about 50% of people with a mental illness also have a substance abuse problem. Studies have shown that treating one of these issues alone does not have an impact on the other.  Treating both issues together has been successful in helping people work towards both sustained sobriety and wellness.   At Project Recovery clients participate in groups, treatment and activities that address their goals and work with both substance abuse and mental health needs in an integrated way.  Project Recovery staff understand the complexity of addressing these intertwined issues and support clients as they achieve success in both areas.

Anyone interested in receiving services from Project Recovery can call the OceanMHS Access Center at 732-575-1111.  Access Center staff is available Monday – Friday, from 9 am – 5 pm.