Recovering from a mental health disorder or substance use disorder goes deeper than acknowledging a person is struggling. It’s a long process that focuses on the person’s behavioral health and steps in recovery. September is National Recovery Month, a time to increase awareness and understanding about mental health and substance use disorders, reduce social stigma, and celebrate individuals in long-term recovery as well as those caring for them.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) currently there are approximately 45 million U.S. adults who consider themselves to be in recovery or to have recovered from a mental health issue. Mental health disorders are a complex interplay between biological, environmental, and psychological factors such as genetics and brain chemistry, prenatal disruptions such as drugs, alcohol, and prenatal infections in the womb, traumatic brain injuries, and chronic health conditions.
The CDC estimates that roughly one in six Americans currently has a substance use disorder. Substance abuse and addiction can develop as a means to cope with stress, trauma, or mental health issues, and from misusing opioids.
Ways you can show your support during National Recovery Month.
- Bring attention to the resources, services, and support systems available for those in need.
- Foster a sense of community among individuals in recovery, their families, and supporters.
- Celebrate and acknowledge the achievements of individuals who are in recovery.
- Show that recovery is possible by sharing stories and showcasing successful outcomes.
- Reduce stigma and foster a more supportive environment for those affected.
- Encourage advocacy for better policies, funding, and research.
- Help dispel myths and misconceptions about addiction.
September 30 is National Recovery Day. On this day, Rural Health, Inc. will offer information and resources, including free NARCAN, at its health centers in Anna, Dongola, Goreville, Metropolis, and Vienna to all visitors regardless of their patient status.
National Recovery Month was established in 1989 by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to promote evidence-based treatment and recovery practices. To learn more, and how you can help someone in crisis, visit samhsa.gov or call Rural Health, Inc. at 618-833-4471.
Rural Health, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization designated by the federal government as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) with locations in Johnson, Massac, and Union counties in Illinois providing quality medical, dental, mental health, and pharmacy services to all patients in need of healthcare while being committed to the overall health and well-being of the underserved. Medicaid, Medicare, and most insurance carriers are accepted.
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