Understanding the Significance of National Recovery Month: Promoting Awareness and Support

Every September marks National Recovery Month, an important time to raise awareness about substance abuse, recovery, and the resources available to those still struggling. National Recovery Month opens conversations about the need for increased awareness and support for those still living in active addiction.

What is the significance of National Recovery Month, and how does it help people with substance use disorder? Where can you find some addiction recovery resources to ensure your loved one finds the help they need, whether from a community resource or an addiction treatment program?

What is National Recovery Month?

National Recovery Month is an awareness campaign promoting awareness about the importance of recovery for those with substance use disorder. The campaign’s tagline, “Every Person, Every Family, Every Community,” emphasizes that recovery is possible and important for everyone.1

First started in 1989, this annual observance is a critical way to raise public understanding about mental health and addiction recovery. It also promotes the need for evidence-based treatment and celebrates the dedication of recovery service providers as well as all of those who support the recovery movement.

Addiction Recovery Statistics

Addiction is a growing problem throughout the United States. After a small but promising dip in substance use in 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 skyrocketed the rates of substance abuse. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration collects data on mental health and substance use each year in the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH).2 According to the 2021 NSDUH, the following numbers of people struggled with substance use disorders:

Alcohol: 29.5 million
Illicit drugs: 24.0 million
Marijuana: 16.3 million
Pain relievers: 5.0 million
Methamphetamine: 1.6 million
Stimulants: 1.5 million
Cocaine: 1.4 million
Heroin: 1.0 million

Thankfully, substance use disorder isn’t the end of the road. People find freedom from the chains of substance use disorder every year. The NSDUH reported that of the 29.0 million adults who perceived they had a substance use problem, 72.2% believe themselves to be in recovery. Through efforts like National Recovery Month and the variety of addiction recovery resources, people can overcome their struggles with substance use.

Addiction Recovery Resources

National Recovery Months provides a yearly opportunity to spotlight some of the many available addiction recovery resources. There are many options for those seeking help for their substance use disorder, from free community resources to addiction and mental health treatment services.

12-step groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous are free recovery-based programs that help millions. They are great options for anyone seeking ongoing support during their recovery journey. Alternatives like SMART Recovery, Refuge Recovery, and Celebrate Recovery are all useful, too.

Addiction treatment programs are typically the first line of defense for someone ready to overcome their alcohol or drug addiction. Facilities like Steps to Recovery offer specialized services that meet your loved one where they are and provide an individualized treatment plan that outlines the path to a life free from substances.

To learn more about the programs we offer, call us at 267-719-8528 or submit an online contact form today. Our admissions specialists can help you find the right program for your loved one, from residential treatment to an intensive outpatient program. They never need to struggle alone again. Steps to Recovery is here to help every step of the way.

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