Happy National Recovery Month! Started in 1989, National Recovery Month is held annually in September to promote and support the proud and strong recovery community, highlight new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, and acknowledge the dedication of service providers and communities who help make recovery possible. Did you know that over 22 million Americans are in recovery from some form of substance use disorder (SUD)? Recovery is a courageous journey marked by perseverance and transformation. Each recovery story is a testament to resilience and the possibility of healing.
SUD affects families everywhere, with overdoses claiming more than 100,000 lives last year. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers a toolkit to help recognize signs of these disorders and find available resources. Visit https://www.samhsa.gov/recovery-month for more information. Recovery isn’t just about overcoming challenges; it’s about rebuilding lives and strengthening communities. It’s supported by evidence-based treatments, like counseling and medication-assisted therapy, which have shown effectiveness in helping individuals achieve and maintain recovery. Moreover, recovery is a process that involves not only the individual but also their support network – family, friends, healthcare providers, and community organizations—all playing crucial roles in the journey to wellness. Recovery Month emphasizes the following:
- Prevention works,
- Behavioral health is essential to overall health,
- Treatment is effective, and
- People can and do recover.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, there are resources available to help. Reach out to local treatment centers, support groups like Alcoholics or Narcotics Anonymous, or utilize national helplines for guidance and support. Anchored is a behavioral health practice in Wayne County that provides mental health and substance use disorder services. Free services are available at Anchored for Wayne County citizens who are in recovery. Let Anchored walk it out with you.
This month, we challenge you to celebrate those in recovery and spread hope to those with substance use disorders. Let us also honor the memory of those we have lost by taking proactive steps to prevent future tragedies. Advocate for policies that prioritize harm reduction and foster a culture of empathy and support for those struggling with SUD. Together, the Wayne County Recovery Coalition, Anchored, Share Health Southeast Georgia, and you can make a difference and save lives. For more information about WCRC, visit our website at https://waynecountyrecovery.com/ or contact our Project Coordinator, Renee Bolin, at reneebolin@waynecountyrecovery.com.