All of those who suffer, to any degree, from an alcohol or chemical dependency problem should take note that help is much more accessable than they realize.

The Alcoholism and Chemical Dependency Treatment Center is located in Kishwaukee Community Hospital and offers a full range of services to those in need. According to Jake Epperly, the center’s administrative director, many people just let their dependency go untreated because they do not wish to be placed in the hospital.

Epperly emphasized that, contrary to popular belief, a person does not necessarily need to be treated on an in-patient basis to receive help. Many completely confidential out-patient programs are available.

owever, those who wish to be placed in the center on an in-patient level remain there for a 17-24 day stay, depending on the treatment team’s analysis of their dependency. While in the treatment center, patients attend group therapy twice a day. An education presentation series is also given twice a day.

The families and/or significant others of the dependent person are also encouraged to take part in the patient’s recovery. The families put at least 12-15 hours of input per week into the dependent person’s treatment program.

Epperly said that services are also available for the family and friends of an alcoholic or chemically dependent person, regardless of whether that person is involved in treatment or not.

Dependent persons involved with the center on an in-patient level are exposed to various therapeutic influences during their stay. For example, volunteers come to the unit each week to take the patients to community Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.

In addition, the center employs the help of a “counseling clergy.” This clergy group is available to discuss spirituality; however, it does not focus on religion.

It is important to realize that someone with an alcohol or chemical dependency problem does not need to match the stereotype of the “drunk” asleep in the gutters. This behavior tends to occur after the initial warning signs have gone unnoticed and the problem progresses into critical stages.

Epperly listed some warning signs that the center uses which can often detect a dependency problem in the early to middle stages of the problem.

1. Blackouts. 2. Disapproval by others of your drinking or drug use. 3. Relationship, academic or work problems. 4. Activities centered around alcohol or drug use. 5. Inability to drink according to intentions. 6. Guilt or remorse associated with drinking.

Epperly emphasized that a dependency problem is “real treatable.” However, the person needs to seek help; the problem will not go away by itself. All services are confidential and the initial assessment with a counselor is free of charge. Phone lines are open 24 hours a day. The toll free number to call is 1-800-321-9506 or call the center directly at 756-2722.