Big Island Substance Abuse Council’s Hulihia Ke Ola program on the Big Island is changing the landscape of substance abuse treatment.
Hulihia Ke Ola, a social detox program, was established to expand the continuum of care. Our program is designed to help individuals safely navigate the initial stages of withdrawal from drugs or alcohol while addressing the psychological and emotional challenges that accompany early recovery.
Participants receive holistic support through counseling, peer connections and education on the effects of substance abuse. Unlike traditional approaches, social detox recognizes addiction as a complex issue involving physical, emotional and social factors.
Since its launch in February 2024, Hulihia Ke Ola has shown promising results. Over 50 individuals have participated, with about 30% moving on to further treatment. These numbers highlight both the program’s effectiveness and the pressing need for such services in our communities.
Social detox differs from medical detox primarily in its environment. Instead of a clinical setting, it offers a more supportive atmosphere where trained professionals provide constant care and participants can connect with peers facing similar challenges.
The program’s approach is comprehensive. It includes individual and group counseling to address psychological aspects of addiction, educational workshops on life skills and sobriety strategies, and a strong emphasis on peer support.
Key components of the Hulihia Ke Ola Social Detox Program:
1. 24/7 support: Our trained staff is available around the clock to provide emotional support, monitor progress, and ensure safety throughout the detox process.
2. Counseling and therapy: Participants have access to individual and group counseling sessions that address the psychological aspects of addiction, helping them build resilience and coping strategies.
3. Peer support: Being surrounded by others who are experiencing similar challenges can be incredibly empowering. Our program emphasizes the importance of peer support, fostering a sense of community and mutual encouragement.
4. Education and life skills: We offer educational sessions that provide insight into addiction, relapse prevention, and strategies for maintaining long-term sobriety. Participants also learn essential life skills that can help them rebuild their lives post-detox.
5. Transition planning: As participants near the completion of the detox program, our team works with them to develop a personalized plan for continuing their recovery journey. This may include referrals to inpatient or outpatient treatment programs, support groups, or other community resources.
The goal of our Social Detox Program is to provide individuals with a solid foundation for recovery, equipping them with the tools and support they need to move forward. We understand that detox is just the beginning of the journey, and we are committed to helping each participant take the next steps with confidence and hope.
The path to recovery from substance abuse is rarely straightforward. But with innovative approaches like social detox, we’re moving in the right direction. By addressing the whole person — not just the physical symptoms of addiction – we can offer a more effective path to recovery. It’s time for us all to recognize the potential of this approach and work towards implementing it on a larger scale.
Hannah Preston-Pita is CEO of BISAC. Kevin Kunz is a leader of the Hawaii Island Fentanyl Task Force. This editorial is brought to you by Community First Hawaii, a nonprofit serving as a convener and catalyst for solutions to improve health and access to health care. For more information, please visit our website or Facebook and Instagram pages at @communityfirsthawaii.
