Denver Hospitality Recovery Pro Bono Program
Khesed exists to advance equity in mental health care. We strive to identify and address gaps in care and barriers to access within the communities that we serve. The greatest gap in mental health care access in Denver - ongoing affordable (and free) therapy for substance use recovery - uniquely impacts an industry at the center of our mission.
How is the hospitality industry impacted by substance use?
The 14 million+ workers in the restaurant industry represent 10% of the entire US workforce. The industry is the most at risk for illicit drug use and substance use disorders, and third most at risk for heavy alcohol use.
A two-year study, which surveyed 17,000 employees in 19 industries, not only concluded that the work environment in the food and beverage industry correlated with a high level of mental health issues, but that it was one of the three worst industries to work in.
The study also found that 17% of food services workers have been diagnosed with a substance use disorder and 12% of restaurant and hotel employees reported engaging in heavy alcohol use (consuming 5+ alcoholic beverages in under 2 hours, for 5 consecutive days).
Only 14% of workers receive any form of benefits from their employer. Employees have many concerns with seeking help, including limited resources like health insurance and substance use prevention programs, fear of isolation, poor job security, and frequent contact with drugs and alcohol.
Why therapy?
Therapy can play a critical role in recovering from addiction. It can help individuals understand the underlying causes of their addiction, develop coping strategies to prevent relapse, and make positive changes in their behavior and relationships. Successful treatment often requires ongoing management and support to avoid relapse and maintain long-term recovery.
Khesed Wellness received a private donation from a community leader passionate about supporting hospitality workers and understands substance misuse and addiction uniquely impacts this industry. We are providing 12 FREE mental health therapy sessions to hospitality workers pursuing recovery from substance use addictions.
In order to qualify, participants must meet the following criteria:
Lives in Denver City or County
Currently works in the hospitality industry
Navigating substance misuse and/or addiction
Seeking individual outpatient counseling, up to weekly sessions
Each participant will receive 12 FREE sessions to support their pursuit of recovery from substance use. Upon completion of the program, participants have the option to continue services through our other ongoing affordable or free programs. Submit an intake form and schedule an appointment to get started.
This program is currently at capacity. Please sign up for the waitlist and stay tuned for updates.