What Is National Recovery Month?

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September 27, 2019

Addiction statistics continue to rise at an alarming rate. As disheartening as these numbers are, there is still hope. More and more people are saying enough is enough. For 30 years, SAMHSA’s National Recovery Month has paid tribute to the brave men and women who have broken the bonds of addiction over their lives and are now walking out their recovery day by day.

Millions of Americans have seen their lives transformed through recovery. Yet, these success stories often go unnoticed. Each September, National Recovery Month gives these individuals the chance to celebrate their forward momentum. It’s also is a vehicle to bring understanding and education on substance use disorders to a broader audience throughout the nation.

Understanding the disease of addiction breaks the terrible stigma surrounding this issue and allows more people to recover. As we celebrate National Recovery Month, we hope even just one more person will find the strength to seek help and gain freedom.

How Can I Educate Others on Substance Use Treatment?

National Recovery Month is now in its 30th year. Today, like never before, the medical community, government bodies and the media are realizing that addiction is a chronic illness. Like other health conditions, such as diabetes, asthma or heart disease, continued improvements in how we manage this disease are essential. It all begins with education. Knowledge about addiction and substance use treatment empowers people to make a change.

If you want to educate others, the first step is to share your own recovery story. By promoting evidence-based treatment and other recovery practices, you show others in the grip of addiction that healing is possible.

If you’re not sure how you can get involved or you need help on how to educate others, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has created a Recovery Month toolkit. This comprehensive guide gives you ample information and resources at your fingertips so that you can make the most out of Recovery Month opportunities.

With your help, those trapped in addiction will find hope, health and personal growth.

How the Community Can Support Recovery in Our Society

Each year, a new focus and theme are chosen for National Recovery Month. This year highlights the importance of community involvement to support recovery within our society. Certain groups are at the forefront in the fight against addiction, including:

  • First responders
  • The healthcare community
  • Youth and emerging leaders

When we provide education to these members of our community, they realize the essential role they play in supporting countless others. By learning to share resources and build networks, their support will help people from all walks of life find the path to recovery and continue this lifelong journey. The theme for this year’s Recovery Month says it all — together we are stronger.

Take the First Step in Your Own Recovery Journey

The national attention this month brings to this crucial issue is a great way to reach out to those struggling with addiction. If you have an opioid addiction, help is available. AppleGate Recovery provides medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction. Our individualized programs work within your schedule, so you can continue your life while working on your recovery.

Take the first critical step in your recovery journey. Contact AppleGate Recovery today.