Unique Double Trouble Program Targets Spanish-Speaking Community

MHASP's Friends Connection launched the nation's first Spanish Double Trouble meeting on October 6.

Double Trouble is a 12-step self-help program that addresses the co-occurring problems of mental illness and substance abuse.

Many believe the program is long overdue.

"It is felt that a high level of individuals with mental health and substance abuse issues who are Spanish speaking are not being reached," said Robert Cuadrado, who supervises the program for Friends Connection. "Therefore, a meeting such as this can be utilized as a vehicle to obtain some stability in their lives."

Jeanie Whitecraft, manager of Friends Connection, who has been involved with the Philadelphia Double Trouble program for the past 10 years, said she expects the program to grow slowly.

"When the original Double Trouble program was established in Philadelphia, it took over two years for the program to really get started," said Whitecraft.

Whitecraft said she anticipates that the community-based Spanish Double Trouble program may take a long time to establish itself because mental illness is not yet fully understood in the Spanish-speaking community. However, she said she believes in the program and is dedicated to its success.

"It is important to reach the Spanish-speaking community through community-based programs because they foster interpersonal, socialization and self-help skills," she said.

Spanish Double Trouble meetings are held every Wednesday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Norris Square Presbyterian Church located at Hancock and Susquehanna Avenues. For more information, contact Robert Cuadrado at (215) 599-4011.