Overcoming addiction and working towards putting life back on track can seem impossible. Seeking help from professionals can also be overwhelming. Plus, those struggling with addiction can see a disconnect between themselves and the professional. This is where peer support specialists (PSS) play a vital role. A PSS draws from their lived experiences to provide foundational support in assisting others on their path to recovery.
One remarkable PSS is Mickayla Hanzlik, who graduated from the first PSS training class, which was funded through a grant from the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation (SFACF). Hanzlik expressed her attitude towards wanting to see everyone succeed in their recovery to become the best version of themselves. She said, “As a peer support specialist, I’m seeing people open up. People who want to get life back on track are finally able to talk with me, as someone who knows what it’s like. They can ask for help and guidance.”
While working as a PSS, it doesn’t come without its challenges. Hanzlik explained the most challenging part for her is waiting. “It’s just like that with sobriety or recovery. It doesn’t happen overnight! It gets hard at times, having clients relapse.” However, though clients have rough times, Hanzlik prioritizes meeting with them to help re-focus themselves. They talk about the next steps to continue moving forward and what can be done to stop the pattern from repeating.
Diane Eide, BSN, RN, program manager for the South Dakota Foundation for Medical Care (SDFMC) recognized the incredible effort Hanzlik has put into her role. Hanzlik has shown exceptional performance in her work. She has unwavering dedication to her clients, by consistently going above and beyond to provide them with the support they need.
Eide shared, “This is why I feel peer support specialists are so important. They have lived experience and know how to help others with like experiences. Sharing her story shows the success of the PSS training program and supports the future of it.”
Since graduating from PSS training, Hanzlik has started work on the Straight Up Care online platform supporting clients through their recovery journey. Straight Up Care offers free PSS services and is led by Dr. Dittberner, chief executive officer, who also helped lead the SFACF PSS training program.