AddictionAlcohol DependencyDrug Addiction

National Recovery Month Observed in September

By September 3, 2013No Comments

September is National Recovery Month, a time to celebrate the gains made by those in addiction Recovery 1recovery and to educate the public regarding how treatment plans and mental health services are helping to transform people’s lives each day for the better. For 24 years now, Recovery Month has been a period set aside to honor the achievements in substance abuse recovery.

Created in 1989 and originally known as TreatmentWorks! Month, the observance was initially meant to commemorate the work of professionals in the field of addiction recovery. In 1998 the name changed to National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month (Recovery Month), and the observance grew to also honor the positive strides made by those individuals working through substance use disorders. Two years ago, the observance evolved again to incorporate all elements of behavioral health and is now celebrated as National Recovery Month (Recovery Month).

This year Recovery Month focuses on the elements of prevention as well as the many paths to treatment and recovery. Each of these together plays an important role helping to strengthen the potential for a rewarding and healthy life.

There are currently over 200 government organizations at all levels that have joined in partnership with various charitable organizations committed to furthering prevention as well as treatment and recovery services. Together they comprise the Planning Partners’ group which aids in awareness and the distribution of materials and promotional materials. These resources are then distributed to communities to help reach out to those in need.

Recovery from substance abuse can and does happen. Recovery Month helps spread the message that together we can make a positive impact on the lives of others by making programs for prevention, treatment, and recovery more accessible to the public.

Overcoming substance abuse and the process of recovery is not unlike managing chronic physical health problems such as diabetes or hypertension. For over 100 years Family Guidance has been working to eliminate stigma associated with substance use and other mental health disorders. To find out ways you can support your local community during Recovery Month, or if you know someone in need of substance abuse treatment, contact Family Guidance.