Chris (34) describes being ‘lured’ into using Heroin when he was 21 and ‘gullible’. He describes its effect as ‘making me feel at ease, peaceful and comfortable’. Within 3 months he realized that he had a raging problem. He had thought that he would be able to stop when he liked – but he was dependent and had to take heroin just to feel normal – no more comfort or ease.

After years of being in and out of prison for drug related offences, Chris finally was offered a Probation Order called a Drug Treatment and Testing Order (DTTO). The Order provides support in the community from probation Officers and Drug Workers and includes education programmes alongside drug treatment, such as Methadone, and regular drug testing.

Chris first tried complementary therapies as part of his DTTO. At the time he had been prescribed methadone but was still using Heroin and Crack.

He was finding it hard to break away from his old habits. He was desperate to break free from drugs. The problems it had caused included Family breakdown; Loss of liberty; Health deterioration; loss of self-respect; “In the end it takes everything – sex drive, confidence, the lot!”

His health had really suffered – his confidence was at an all time low, he was ‘screwed up’ emotionally and physically; underweight; with collapsed veins and rotten teeth. He had also contracted Hepatitis C from sharing needles.

As part of his DTTO he had to attend for 20 hours of contact time. Complementary therapies were available – so he thought he would try them out. He had never done so before and was amazed at the benefits he experienced.

He tried Indian Head Massage first. His sleep pattern improved straight away and he felt a lot calmer. He tried Reflexology and continued to benefit. His appetite improved.

“I always ate well after a massage”.

As the other aspects of his support structure helped him on his way to recovery, he continued to receive regular therapy sessions – trying Shiatsu too. “Therapies just made me feel chilled, made me feel good. They kept my stress levels low whilst I was withdrawing. I used to have reflexology on a Friday and it would help get me through the weekend – always the worst time. It was something to look forward to.”

Chris has now been through detox treatment and rehabilitation and is now totally abstinent of drugs and alcohol. He is looking to the future and plans to stay clean and sober, get a job and live life. He attends aftercare services and receives structured support from the team. He is also able to access the therapy service.

What Chris says about complementary therapies – “ I will always try and have regular treatments - Therapies have definitely supported me in my recovery.”

What Chris says about the therapists - “ They didn’t judge me, were always friendly and treated me with respect. I’ve told them things I’ve told nobody else – I knew it was a confidential service. ”

Therapist’s comment I have known Chris for 2 years and have treated him with Reflexology and Indian Head Massage. He now takes an active interest in his own health and well being. He has adopted self help techniques into his daily routine and I have seen him transform physically and emotionally into a picture of health and positivity. Many things have helped Chris in his recovery including complementary therapies.