September Is National Recovery Month

Awareness is important. Without national or international recognition, many people are unaware of the issues that many people face. This is no different surrounding topics of substance use.

Many people do not realize that the struggles with substance use do not end just because someone is in recovery. In truth, just because someone is in recovery doesn’t mean that it is a walk in the park for them.

Recovery Month is the celebration and awareness that comes with substance use treatment. It’s raising knowledge for the general public on how crucial mental health services are for those in recovery.

Here’s what you should know about National Recovery Month and how it can help those who are affected by substance use and those who are not.

When Did National Recovery Month Start?

National Recovery Month first began in 1989. It is held in national observance every September.

Prior to National Recovery Month, many people did not truly realize the toll that substance use could have on a person’s mental health. Seeing the need to bring awareness to the general public, and to celebrate those in recovery, SAMHSA began this awareness month.

Up until recently, each new calendar year saw a new theme for Recovery Month in September. However, starting in September of 2022, there is now one permanent theme/tagline that will be used. “Every Person, every family, every community.”

How Does A Month Surrounding Recovery Help?

Let’s first begin this section with how it can help survivors of substance use and their families. It is a full month dedicated to any victory, no matter how big or small, a person in recovery accomplishes.

For someone in recovery, the focus is typically on the big wins that they accomplish. More often than not, there are small victories that lead up to that. One of the great things about recovery month is that it celebrates and encourages those in recovery to be proud of little wins.

Second, mental health is important for everyone on this earth. While the struggle with addiction is hard, the mental health toll substance use takes is equally challenging. For those in recovery, taking care of their mental health is just as important as refraining from the addiction itself.

Third, it helps with education surrounding various topics about substance use.  Without this education, many people(those with the addiction, their family members, and the public) are left in the dark about addiction. Sponsoring organizations aim to provide sources on how effective recovery services can be, as well as treatment.

Finally, it helps those in recovery see they are not alone with their struggles. That recovery is achievable and resiliency throughout this process can go a long way.

How To Receive Help With Substance Use

If you or a loved one are either starting this journey towards recovery or are already on it, know that you aren’t alone. While there are many negative emotions and thoughts surrounding substance use, you should be gentle with yourself or the person who has the addiction.

Recovery is not easy. It is not the one-step process that many people believe it to be. It takes time and strength. There will be setbacks and frustrations that will test you in every way possible. It may not be easy, but it is definitely possible. There is always hope.

Knowing where to turn when you or someone you love is affected by addiction is also challenging. There are so many treatment facilities and programs you could try. The process of recovery is already challenging, trying to even find the right program for you should not have to be.

At Recovery Collective, we are a dedicated group of professionals who have the knowledge and expertise to help you find the right treatment facility. Not only that, but we know how important mental health is as therapists. We offer many services for those in recovery, including addiction counseling and treatment consultations. Reach out to us soon so we can help you on this journey.