RALEIGH, N.C. — Over the last 20 years, more than 28,000 North Carolinians have died because of a drug overdose, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.
And substance abuse has only increased as a result of the pandemic. That's why a new facility in the Triangle is trying to help.
New Waters Recovery is a detox and mental health assessment business opening in Raleigh.
CEO Graham Doerge has been on his own journey of recovery from alcoholism. He got sober in 2008.
“When I got sober, it was like the light kind of turned on," Doerge said. "I just had this realization like, wow, the guys who saved me and helped me when I was in treatment, they were absolute angels, and if I can make a career out of that and if I can give back by doing this and make a living out of it... I mean, what an incredible way to make a career."
Doerge and his wife, Chloe, are both in recovery. They moved here from Austin with their three daughters to open the center.
"My life is exponentially better since obviously I got sober," Doerge said. "This is a lifelong journey and battle and thing that I need to stay on top of forever. And it shows them (my daughters) to persevere. And hard things are really what are the most worth it."
The new space under construction will be a client-centered detox facility offering comprehensive care, including wellness as part of the detox process.
"Massage, infrared sonar, IV therapy for hydration, yoga, all of these kind of body-mind-spirit modalities," Doerge said. "Yes, this is a medical process that everyone is going through, but there’s a huge spiritual component to it as well.”
Clients also have an optional concierge service to provide anonymity for those going through detox or having a mental health assessment.
New Waters Recovery will have 31 beds for clients. It's hosting a grand opening on Sept. 8 and says it will tentatively start taking new clients Sept. 12.
Editor's Note: This story has been updated to reflect a change in opening and client acceptance dates provided by the center.