In Jeffers’ case, getting into temporary residential care at Kaiser Permanente’s Brookside Center in Clackamas, Oregon, was a breakthrough moment.
“Getting sober and being around other people going through the same depression and addiction really changed me, because you think you’re the only person experiencing this,” said Jeffers. “There’s so many people out there going through the same thing.”
Jeffers worked closely with doctors to find medication to help with his depression. He also met with Dugan for regular one-on-one counseling, and with a peer support specialist. Peer support specialists are certified workers who have lived through a substance use disorder and understand what it’s like. They act as a go-to contact for people in recovery, and someone who can accompany them to AA meetings, support them through periods of substance cravings, or even just meet up for coffee when they need to talk.
Celebrating sobriety
Jeffers recently celebrated 6 months of sobriety, and his life looks completely different than it did during what he calls “his dark spot.” He’s back to work full time and spending time with his son.
He also reconnected with an old love: running. He joined a local running club. In August 2024 he completed Hood to Coast, a 200-mile relay from Mt. Hood to Seaside, Oregon. And in September 2024 he took third place in the Run for Recovery in Salem, Oregon.
“It’s just amazing,” said Jeffers. “To come out of this and know that I can accomplish things like that, I feel like a new person.”
His story is evidence that recovery is possible.
“Substance use disorders come in all shapes and sizes and so do the people who have them,” said Marshall. “It’s never too early or too late to make a positive change for yourself.”
Learn more about treatment and recovery at Kaiser Permanente.
