I was a cheerful and carefree man. Strangers felt comfortable around me because I socialised well. Life started to go downhill when a colleague introduced me to synthetic opiates. Never did I expect, I ended up hooked for 10 years. At 36, I felt lost and directionless. I isolated myself and kept my problems to myself. My future felt so bleak. I kept asking myself, "Am I going to use throughout my life?" Drugs turned me into a shadow of my former self.
When I wanted to stop, I shared my problems with a psychologist. He referred me to NAMS for medical detoxification. During the detox, I got to know about WE CARE as a drop-in centre. I knew that I couldn't be alone. Whenever I was alone at home, I was triggered to use. Overcoming triggers alone is a major struggle. My negative thinking led me back to active using. This vicious cycle continued. Therefore, I decided to give WE CARE a try.
During the first visit to WE CARE, I felt awkward and couldn't connect with the staff and drop-ins. I thought that 'this place works for others but I questioned if this place will work for me'. Luckily, a drop-in member reached out to me which made me feel comfortable. After dropping in daily, I feel more comfortable with the rest of the drop-ins. Staying connected with the people at WE CARE helped me to stay away from drugs. We have meals together, exercise together and attend programmes as a group.
WE CARE is a safe place, where my triggers are manageable. Whenever I feel a desire to use, the power of the group help me overcome the trigger. If I have issues, I have friends to share. WE CARE is a safe and comfortable place. I learn that it takes time to build relationships. Upon reflection, I wouldn't know how I can spend the day time without using, without WE CARE.
*name has been changed due to confidentiality reasons.
Do you have an inspiring story to share? We are always on a lookout for patrons who can help us raise awareness and reduce the stigma linked to addiction. We often provide case studies to help people better understand and appreciate the problem of addiction.
We thank you for your support and greatly appreciate your willingness to share with us your story.
Please be assured that WE CARE will handle participant’s personal information with anonymity and respect.
If you would like to share your story, please do not hesitate to email Yvonne@wecare.org.sg or write to us directly (Attention to Yvonne).
If you prefer to be interviewed, please contact Yvonne to book an appointment at 6547 5459.
Join us for this much-awaited movie
Marvel Studios’ Avenger: Infinity War
Date: 25th April 2018
Screen Time: 6:15pm
Venue: The Cathay
Every $50 donated receives one ticket plus treats. Also, enjoy a 250% tax rebate.
UPDATE as of 17 April 2018: WE GOT A GOOD PROBLEM. Thanks to your overwhelming support. We have allocated all our movie tickets for this charity movie night. We are STILL accepting donations which will receive the 250% tax rebate. Unfortunately, you will not be entitled to the movie ticket anymore. Once again, thanks for your support, donations and efforts to build awareness for WE CARE and its campaign.
To donate:
enquire: email fundraising@wecare.org.sg or call 6547 5459
SMART Recovery
SMART stands for Self-Management & Recovery Training. Participants learn tools for addiction recovery based on the latest scientific research and participate in a world-wide community which includes free, self-empowering, science-based mutual help groups.
SMART Recovery dates
Day: Every Thursday
Timing:230pm to 430pm
Venue: WE CARE, 11 Jalan Ubi
Cost: FREE
SMART is catered for individuals with a history of addictions. Interested participants are required to undergo a clincial intake before attending SMART Recovery.
If interested, register below or email help@wecare.org.sg
Mindfulness For Recovery
Mindfulness for Recovery is an open group to learn and practice mindfulness. Mindful practice aims to help participants to break away from their own destructive habitual patterns. All facilitators have personal experience practising mindfulness.
This group is catered for people with a history of addictions, reactive behaviours and/or mood disorders
Programme Details
Every Friday, 615pm to 730pm
Schedule: ongoing
Venue: WE CARE Community Services
To register: call 6547 5459 or email admin@wecare.org.sg