Attain Freedom from Heroin and Cocaine Addiction & Overdose with Milwaukee Halfway Houses

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on the shores of Lake Michigan, offers a mix of Midwestern charm and urban excitement. Tourists will love exploring the stunning Milwaukee Art Museum, designed by famed architect Santiago Calatrava, or the Harley-Davidson Museum, a must-see for motorcycle enthusiasts. For outdoor enthusiasts, there’s always the option to stroll along the scenic lakefront or catch a game at the historic Miller Park, home to the Milwaukee Brewers baseball team. However, it’s important to note that despite the positive elements, there are residents in Mitchell who face challenges with alcohol addiction, a prevalent issue found in communities of all sizes.

From 2014 to 2020, the opioid overdose fatality rate in Milwaukee County was 30.9 per 100,000 persons, which is more than twice the rate for the entire state of Wisconsin (14.8 per 100,000). Heroin-related deaths were a significant contributor to this rate. Deaths involving cocaine were also high in Milwaukee County. The rate of cocaine-related overdose deaths was 13.2 per 100,000 persons, compared to 3.9 per 100,000 statewide during the same period. In 2021, cocaine was involved in half of the county’s drug overdose deaths, and so far in 2022, it has been implicated in 60% of deaths.

Wisconsin halfway houses can support individuals struggling with heroin and cocaine addiction and overdose. It’s important to remember though, that halfway houses aren’t treatment centers themselves. Halfway houses in Milwaukee offer structured living environments for people transitioning into society after inpatient treatment or incarceration. With the right resources and people that are willing to lend a hand, recovery from heroin, cocaine or other drugs is possible.

How many overdoses are there in Milwaukee?

A drug overdose happens when someone takes an amount of a substance – prescription medication, over-the-counter drugs, or illegal drugs – that is greater than their body can safely process. This can lead to serious health problems, including death. Overdoses can be accidental or intentional. Accidental overdoses may occur from taking more than the recommended dosage of a medication, mixing medications that have negative interactions, or using illegal drugs with unknown potencies. 

The signs and symptoms of a drug overdose can vary depending on the specific drug involved. However, some general warning signs to be aware of include changes in breathing. This could be slow, shallow breaths, rapid breathing, or even complete respiratory arrest where the person stops breathing entirely. You might also notice changes in consciousness, with the person becoming confused, disoriented, drowsy, or unconscious.

In 2021, there were 527 confirmed drug overdose deaths in Milwaukee County. Additionally, toxicology tests are pending in 84 more suspected cases. These figures are based on data from the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office. Last year, 678 individuals lost their lives due to drug overdoses in Milwaukee County, setting a record. The situation is concerning, and efforts are being made to address this issue.

What are the top five halfway houses for recovering drug addicts?

Before discussing the top five halfway houses, it is first important to know what to look for in a halfway house. Here are some of the main things to consider when choosing a halfway house:

Fit with your recovery needs:

• Level of care: Halfway houses have different levels of supervision and support. Consider how much independence you feel ready for, and what kind of structure you need to maintain recovery.
• Addiction focus: Some halfway houses specialize in recovery from specific substances or co-occurring disorders, like alcohol, drug abuse, or mental health issues. Choose one that aligns with your needs.

Supportive environment:

• House rules and expectations: Ensure the rules promote a sober lifestyle and a sense of community. Ask about curfews, drug testing policies, and repercussions for violations.
• Staff qualifications: Look for a halfway house with staff trained in drug addiction recovery. Ideally, some staff members should have experience in recovery themselves.
• Resident compatibility: Inquire about the size and demographics of the house. Ideally, the residents should be at a similar stage of recovery and share similar goals.

Safe and well-maintained facilities:

• Living conditions: Tour the facility to assess its cleanliness, safety, and overall upkeep. Ensure there’s enough space for residents and their belongings.
• Location: Consider how close the halfway house is to your support system, potential employers, or treatment centers (for follow-up appointments).

Additional considerations:

• Cost and payment options: Halfway houses have varying costs. Explore payment options, including insurance coverage or financial assistance programs.
• Licensing and accreditation: Verify that the halfway house is licensed and accredited by reputable organizations.

Things to avoid when choosing the right halfway house for you:

• Rundown or unsafe facilities
• Lack of clear admissions criteria or record-keeping
• Unqualified staff
• Tolerant attitude towards substance use

Five reputable halfway houses in Wisconsin include:

1. WisHope Recovery Center: WisHope offers holistic, evidence-based addiction treatment and recovery solutions for those seeking recovery from substance use.They focus on individualized care.
   • Location: 223 Wisconsin Ave, Waukesha, WI 53186.
2. Beacon House:  Beacon House is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing compassionate, professional help to men and women with children recovering from alcoholism and drug dependency. They offer a safe, supportive home-like environment for rebuilding lives emotionally, spiritually, and behaviorally.
   • Location: 166 S Park Ave, Fond Du Lac, WI 54935.
3. The Mooring Programs: The Mooring Programs provide transitional housing and drug-free sober living facilities nationwide.
   • Location: 607 West Seventh Street, Appleton, WI 54911.
4. Last House on the Block: Last House on the Block consists of residential homes where recovering individuals live together in a supportive environment. Each house operates democratically, fostering recovery from addiction.
   • Location: 1510 Buchanan St, Racine, WI 53402.
5. Genesis House: Genesis House offers a safe and sober community, meal plans, group meetings, access to social services, spiritual guidance, and more. Their focus is on helping individuals maintain sobriety during the critical early weeks and months after rehab.
   • Location: Waukesha, WI.

Selecting the most suitable halfway house depends on individual needs and preferences. It’s vital to assess different options thoroughly and locate a supportive environment that complements your journey towards recovery.

What are the top five halfway houses for alcoholics?

Besides the points mentioned above, it is important to know what halfway houses can offer. They act as a link between inpatient addiction treatment and independent living. They also provide a safe environment designed to meet the needs of individuals recovering from drug addiction. Here’s some of the features that halfway houses provide:

• Substance-free living: Residents live in a substance-free environment with regular testing to ensure continued sobriety.
• Honing of skills: Many residents may need help with essential life skills like cooking, job searching, and communication. Halfway houses offer programs to strengthen these abilities for independent living.
• Education and employment resources: To help residents reintegrate into society, halfway houses may connect them with educational opportunities or job training programs, improving their chances of finding employment.
• Mental health support: Addiction can co-occur with mental health issues. Halfway houses can provide resources or referrals for residents who need additional support in this area.
• Relapse prevention planning: Working with residents to develop a relapse prevention plan equips them with strategies to manage triggers and stay committed to their recovery journey.

Five examples of halfway houses in Wisconsin for alcoholics:

1. Serenity House Inc: Serenity House Inc provides structured, temporary housing for individuals who are transitioning to more permanent and independent living situations. They support people recovering from alcoholism and substance abuse, ensuring sobriety and prohibiting drugs and alcohol on the premises.
   • Location: 205 East Grand Avenue, Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin 54729.
2. Fahrman Center: Fahrman Center offers a safe haven for those reentering society after addiction treatment. Sobriety is strictly enforced, and residents receive support as they work toward independent living
   • Location: 3136 Craig Road, Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54701.
3. Project WisHope Recovery Housing: Project WisHope supervises and maintains recovery residences or halfway houses for men and women. These homes serve as vital resources for those transitioning back into society after addiction treatment.
   • Location: 166 South Park Avenue, Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin 54935.
4. LSS Aspen Center: The remodeled LSS Aspen Center provides gender-specific wings to meet the growing need for affordable, high-quality addiction treatment services in Waukesha and surrounding areas. It offers a supportive environment for individuals seeking recovery from substance use disorders.
   • Location: 2000 W Bluemound Rd, Waukesha, WI, 53186.
5. Ain Dah Ing Incorporated: Ain Dah Ing provides transitional housing and sober living for individuals in recovery. Their focus is on creating a safe and supportive community to help people maintain sobriety as they reintegrate into society.
   • Location: 704 North River Street, Spooner, WI, 54801.

Halfway houses provide shelter, structure, and accountability to those transitioning back into society. Sobriety is mandatory, and drugs and alcohol are prohibited in these facilities. Each halfway house may have varying rules and services, so consider your needs when choosing one on your road to recovery.

Begin Your Path to Recovery from Heroin and Cocaine Addiction & Overdose with Milwaukee Halfway Houses

Halfway houses can be a powerful tool against the dangers of heroin and cocaine addiction and abuse.Through the implementation of effective strategies, they provide residents with the knowledge and tools needed to be mindful of its abuse.

Milwaukee County has seen a significant rise in drug-related overdose deaths. From 2015 to 2022, there were over 3,500 deaths. Also, it has experienced a record number of drug overdose deaths in 2021, with 643 reported deaths, up from 546 in 2020. There’s a strong possibility this involves heroin and cocaine. A survey indicates 1.4% of Wisconsin high school students have used heroin in their lifetime. This can be an indicator of potential wider heroin use in the area.

These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address substance abuse, enhance prevention efforts, and provide support for affected individuals and their families. As Milwaukee battles the concerning rise of overdoses, particularly those involving heroin, Wisconsin halfway houses act as allies in supporting individuals seeking recovery and preventing relapses. Raising awareness is critical. Residents need to understand the heightened risks of drug addiction. Even small amounts can be fatal, and cocaine use itself is dangerous. To be free from dangerous drugs such as the ones mentioned above, call a halfway house in Milwaukee today so you can achieve long-term sobriety and rediscover the joy of living life.

Resources:

[1] Overdose Data – Milwaukee County Gov

[2] Pace of Drug Overdose Deaths – Milwaukee NNS

[3] Milwaukee County sees record number of drug overdose deaths – Wisconsin Public Radio