Samantha Ritz: Building Safe Havens for College Students in Recovery
Episode Overview
Samantha Ritz shares her journey into the recovery field, emphasizing the challenges faced by college students in seeking help The role of local 12-step and treatment facilities in referring students to CRCs is highlighted The potential of CRCs to be recognized as a positive attribute for students applying to colleges and future employers is discussed The importance of CRCs in providing a supportive space for sober interactions, weekly meetings, and individual recovery coaching is emphasized The episode explores the efforts to promote CRCs as a place for general wellness improvement rather than solely focused on substance use
These programs and these things that exist and that the stigma is not nearly as severe as it currently is, to be able to have that be a positive attribute, you know, I really think that that could work for a lot of people's, a lot of employers' benefits.
Picture a college campus where students can find not just academic support but also a sanctuary for their recovery journey. In this episode of 'Recovery Greenhouse', host Gerald Lott sits down with Samantha Ritz, the University of Indiana Collegiate Recovery Community Coordinator. Samantha's path to her current role is anything but linear.
From working in criminal justice to managing a residential program for men, her diverse background has uniquely prepared her to understand and tackle the challenges faced by students in recovery. College life is often painted as a carefree time, but for many students grappling with substance use issues, it's anything but. Samantha shares how Collegiate Recovery Communities (CRCs) provide a lifeline, offering sober interactions, weekly meetings, and one-on-one recovery coaching.
These communities aren't just about abstinence; they focus on overall wellness, making them an invaluable resource for students navigating the pressures of college life. Gerald and Samantha dive into the crucial role local 12-step programs and treatment facilities play in referring students to CRCs. They discuss how these communities help improve student retention and graduation rates, proving that support systems are essential for academic success.
The conversation also touches on the broader mission of CRCs to reduce the stigma around seeking help for substance use issues. By promoting CRCs as positive attributes on college applications and resumes, they aim to change the narrative around recovery. Through personal stories and professional insights, this episode highlights the importance of creating supportive environments for students in recovery. It's a reminder that no one should face these struggles alone and that help is always within reach.