National Recovery Month is an annual observance in the United States that encourages people to recognize recovery from substance use disorders. It also aims to inspire individuals to seek treatment. Each September, we honor those who’ve achieved long-term success and celebrate the role of self-help groups and community organizations in helping people reach their goal of a happy, productive life.
What Is National Recovery Month?
National Recovery Month is a time to celebrate recovery and raise awareness about the importance of recovery. It’s also an opportunity to help people learn more about the many ways they can pursue their own path toward health and well-being.
Recovery Month is also a time to recognize those who have helped others recover from addictions. Everyone can participate and take action this September.
Other National Recovery Month objectives include:
- Celebrating people in recovery
- Appreciating the contributions of treatment and service providers
- Spreading the message that recovery is possible
- Sharing the idea that behavioral health is essential for overall health
- Lastly, letting people know treatment is effective, and people can and do recover
5 Ways to Become Involved During National Recovery Month
Attend an Event
If you’re interested in becoming involved with National Recovery Month, reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Then, find out what events are held in your area. From photo booths to informational tables at local libraries, there are plenty of ways for involvement.
Talk Openly and Honestly About Your Own Sobriety Experience
If you want to encourage others to become involved with sobriety month, start by talking openly and honestly about your own experience. You could share your story at a meeting or on social media. You could speak up in group therapy or during an office lunch break. Sharing your own journey, indeed, helps others feel less alone, gets them thinking about their own experiences with addiction and recovery, and shows them that there is hope for overcoming these challenges.
Promote National Recovery Month on Social Media
Another great way to show your support is by promoting it on social media.
- Share pictures of sober friends and family members
- Share posts from various organizations like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
- Share links to recovery resources on your social media profiles.
- Share positive messages about prevention, treatment, and recovery.
The more we talk about recovery and promote it, the easier it is for others struggling with addiction or mental health issues to seek help!
Encourage a Proclamation
Your local government may be interested in promoting National Recovery Month, too. If interested in receiving a proclamation from your mayor or city council member, reach out to them and let them know that there’s an important issue at stake! You can also reach out to your state representatives or senator if their offices are near your home.
Involvement in Your Recovery Community
Find a local recovery community and talk to people who have been sober for a while. Then, ask them how they got sober and what they do to stay sober. Ask them what they wish people knew about sobriety. You might also want to ask what their favorite celebration tradition is, or why they think it’s important that we celebrate National Recovery Month!
Getting the Help You Need
When it comes to seeking help for drug addiction or any other form of a substance use disorder, the first step is often the hardest. Simply recognizing the need for treatment can be a serious impediment, as can knowing where to reach out for help.
If you’re struggling with addiction and are ready to find your path to recovery, contact Fairwinds Treatment Center. Our team is dedicated to helping each client achieve long-lasting sobriety through evidence-based therapeutic interventions that address the underlying causes of addiction.
