FOCUS Chemical Dependency Inpatient Program welcoming new patients at Essentia Health

The FOCUS Unit at Essentia Health-St. Joseph’s Medical Center has reopened its inpatient program. They have expanded the FOCUS Unit Team and are looking forward to providing care for clients in a newly remodeled area.

“It is very rewarding to witness the success that clients have addressing their addiction at FOCUS. Clients consistently express their appreciation of feeling “safe,” gaining hope and the tools they need to heal and recover from the pain of addiction,” explained Joe Galloway, FOCUS Unit Manager.

What is FOCUS? FOCUS stands for Facility Offering Care Understanding and Serenity, an established Essentia Health St. Joseph’s Medical Center chemical dependency program since 1984. FOCUS is dedicated to the treatment and rehabilitation of addicted individuals and to helping families affected by the use of alcohol or other mood altering chemicals.

Chemical dependency is a primary and progressive disease that is treatable. Addicted persons and their families may recognize symptoms by observing the following signs of alcohol or drug problems:

• Taking more alcohol or chemicals to get desired effect
• Preoccupation with drugs or alcohol
• Avoiding or getting annoyed when someone refers to the use of alcohol or drugs
• Memory loss related to drinking
• Drinking or using more than intended
• Guilt about drinking or using
• Drinking or using when alone
• Feeling uncomfortable in situations without drugs or alcohol
• Others disapproval of drinking or drug use
• Unsuccessful attempts to stop or cutback on drinking or use
• Difficulty meeting obligations at work, school, or at home

If you are interested in finding out more about the FOCUS Chemical Dependency Program, call 218.828.7374 or visit EssentiaHealth.org/services/substance-abuse/