Recovery is something to cherish and to celebrate every month, but September is an especially good time to speak up and speak out about freedom in recovery from substance use. That is because the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration set aside this time as National Recovery Month. The purpose is to raise awareness about addiction recovery; to build understanding; and to celebrate those people who are currently living in recovery.
During this month, we celebrate recovery, but ultimately, our hope is that National Recovery Month can be a launch point for yearlong, everyday emphasis on recovery: Freedom from addiction and from mental health disorders is something to work toward, to protect, to enrich and to champion no matter the month, no matter the hour.
We invite you to use this opportunity to become an ambassador for recovery—and to stay committed to it year-round. Becoming an ambassador for recovery means spreading the good news that that treatment works and recovery is possible.
Here are just a few ways to do that:
- Share your story. If you have been in treatment and are currently in recovery, speak openly about the change in your life. Share your testimony on social media, or offer to speak at local recovery support groups.
- Break past stigma. Share positive information about recovery. Use social media as a tool to share meaningful and factual articles about how recovery works.
- Be mindful of the signs of addiction. If you have a friend or loved one who you suspect is struggling, be candid with them about the benefits of recovery.
- Renew your commitment to regular involvement in attending support groups or therapy, and to being proactive in working toward a fuller, healthier life.
Become an ambassador for recovery—this month and every month.
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