A Personal Guide from Troy, Co-founder of Raglan Reconnection Retreat
Kia ora, I’m Troy — and together with my wife Kate, we started Raglan Reconnection Retreat because we know exactly how hard addiction can be. We’ve lived it.
My own journey through addiction wasn’t a straight line. There were setbacks, shame, and moments I never thought I’d come back from. Kate’s journey was her own, but just as tough. Between us, we’ve faced the reality of addiction, the brokenness it causes, and the incredible strength it takes to rebuild.
The numbers are confronting – one in ten people battle substance abuse. Many need help but never receive the essential support they require.
“What I’ve learned is that addiction reaches far beyond the individual using substances. It affects relationships, work performance, and family bonds, often passing harmful patterns down through generations.”
That’s why we didn’t set out to build a typical alcohol/drug rehab centre. We wanted to create something authentic – a space where people feel safe, seen, heard and genuinely supported, in an environment of like-minded people
How to Spot the Signs in Yourself or a Loved One
Recognising addiction isn’t always clear-cut. People often wonder if they’re seeing a temporary rough patch or something more concerning. The answer usually lies in behavioural patterns rather than single events. If problems are developing, there is a problem.
Physical Signs: Fatigue, Weight Changes, Poor Hygiene, isolation
Physical symptoms often appear first. Someone might look consistently exhausted even after adequate sleep. Studies show more than 65% of people experience insomnia during active addiction and early recovery.
Dramatic weight changes ring alarm bells, particularly with stimulant use. People often skip meals because obtaining substances becomes more important than eating well. Some go without proper nutrition for days or weeks.
Personal hygiene frequently deteriorates. A person battling addiction might skip showers, stop brushing their teeth, or wear the same clothes repeatedly. This happens because addiction consumes mental and physical energy, leaving little for basic self-care. The inability to maintain time management also becomes prevalent.
Behavioural Signs: Lying, Aggression, Mood Swings
Dishonesty becomes commonplace with addiction. Someone might lie about where they’ve been, what they spent money on, or how much they’re using. The disease itself causes this dishonesty by changing brain function and affecting judgement.
Sudden anger outbursts often emerge. Research shows people struggling with addiction score significantly higher on anger assessments and find it harder to regulate emotions. These reactions seem disproportionate to triggering situations.
“Extreme mood swings are common – someone might appear deeply depressed one moment and euphoric the next after using. This happens because substances interfere with the brain’s natural pleasure and reward systems.”
Psychological Signs: Apathy, Paranoia, Low Self-Worth
Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities signals concern. This apathy extends beyond laziness – research indicates it strongly predicts functional impairment across various mental health conditions.
Paranoia manifests as constant suspicion and mistrust. People might believe others are plotting against them or interpret neutral comments as threats. Stimulants particularly worsen paranoid thinking.
Self-esteem plummets as addiction progresses. Studies show people fighting addiction often feel worthless and expect rejection from others. Substances temporarily mask these feelings but ultimately worsen underlying emotional pain.
Taking the Next Step Towards Recovery
Professional help becomes essential when substance use controls daily life. The right moment for conversation matters – choose times when your loved one is sober and calm, never during conflicts or while they’re impaired.
Finding the Right Treatment
We believe addiction stems from disconnection – from yourself, nature, and purpose. We combine proven methods like CBT and AOD counselling with nature-based therapy, mindfulness, and journalling. To understand how these therapies fit into a wider healing model, see our guide to holistic drug and alcohol rehabilitation.
You’ll spend time walking beaches and bush and reconnecting with who you really are, not just sitting in rooms. We also engage with Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous 12-step recovery programme.
Effective treatment focuses on reconnection – helping you rediscover your authentic self beyond addiction. It provides practical tools for long-term recovery, not temporary fixes.
“At Raglan Reconnection Retreat, we keep groups small – just four people at a time. Recovery needs connection, not crowding. You’ll receive support from people who’ve walked this path personally and academically.”
Raglan’s serene environment is key to our rehabilitation approach. Activities like journalling, beach, bush walks, and nature-based therapy promote emotional clarity and healing, helping clients find peace, connection and strength in recovery life.
The practical element of our programme which involves activities chosen by the individual, teaches that fun and excitement can be achievable substance free. It also encourages the return of Dopamine and Serotonin
The Path Forward: Hope and Healing
Kate, our clinicians and I are here to lead and support people on their journey of self-discovery. We walk beside people while they rebuild their own path forward. We’ve lived through addiction’s darkness and found our way to authentic connection, purpose, self-worth and acceptance
“People often arrive at our retreat feeling broken. But we consistently witness incredible strength that already exists within them. With proper support in the right environment, healing happens naturally.”
Recovery begins with one brave decision – asking for help. This choice creates opportunities to heal not just individuals, but entire families and communities. Breaking free from addiction means more than stopping substance use – it allows people to reclaim joy, relationships, and life’s deeper meaning.
If you’re ready to start this journey, we’d be honoured to help. We understand where you are because we’ve been there ourselves. The way forward is absolutely possible. Walk with us into FREEDOM.
Start your rehabilitation journey today & take your power back
Take the first step toward a life free from drugs and alcohol. Whether you’re ready to begin or want to learn more about our rehabilitation programmes, our team is here to guide you.
Get in Touch
Phone: 021 0831 0965
Email: admin@raglanreconnectionretreat.co.nz
Need Help? Support Services You Can Trust
If you or someone you care about is struggling with alcohol or drug use, there’s real help available—right now. These services are free, confidential, and staffed by people who understand what you’re going through.
📞 Drug & Alcohol Support Services in New Zealand
1. Alcohol & Drug Helpline
Call 0800 787 797 • Text 8681 • Live chat
Available 24/7, this helpline offers confidential support, information, and referrals. Talk to trained addiction counsellors anytime.
2. 1737 – Need to Talk?
Call or text 1737
A free service to talk with a trained counsellor about anything you’re struggling with, including drug or alcohol concerns.
3. Lifeline Aotearoa
Call 0800 543 354 • Text HELP (4357) • Website
Available 24/7. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a pattern of use, Lifeline provides a safe space to talk it out.
🔗 Trusted Government & Health Resources
For reliable, up-to-date advice and information on addiction recovery and mental wellbeing, check out these official sources:
- Ministry of Health – Mental Health & Addiction
www.health.govt.nz/…/mental-health-and-wellbeing
Insight into government services, funding, and national strategy on addiction and recovery. - Mental Health Foundation – Finding Help
www.mentalhealth.org.nz/help
Guidance on accessing treatment, what to expect, and where to begin. - Te Whatu Ora – Alcohol and Drug Services
www.info.health.nz
A public guide to local detox, outpatient support, counselling, and inpatient rehab options across Aotearoa.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or addiction-related advice. If you’re concerned about someone’s wellbeing—or if there’s any risk of self-harm, suicide, or harm to others—seek immediate support from a qualified health professional or contact emergency services.
At Raglan Reconnection Retreat, care is supported by registered health practitioners, including GPs, DAPAANZ Registered Alcohol and Other Drug Practitioners, and DAPAANZ Registered Clinical Supervisors.