National Recovery Month (Recovery Month) is an annual observance celebrated every September since 1989. In September, and throughout the year, Recovery Month spreads the message that
- Behavioral Health is essential to health.
- Prevention works
- Treatment is effective
- People recover
Refer to the Recovery Month website, www.recoverymonth.gov, for additional information on the initiative.
Recovery Month is sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. SAMHSA collaborates withapproximately 200 Recovery Month Planning Partners who represent local, state, and national organizations dedicated to prevention, treatment, and recovery.
This year’s theme, “Join the Voices for Recovery: Our Families, Our Stories, Our Recovery!” highlights the value of peer support by educating, mentoring and helping others. It invites individuals in recovery and their support systems to be active change agents in communities, and in civic and advocacy engagements.
Every September and throughout the year hundreds of events occur to celebrate Recovery Month.These events, ranging from recovery walks and rallies to online web chats and group barbecues, encourage the following audiences to address the continued need for prevention, treatment, and recovery support services. Follow the Cape Fear Recovery Month on Facebook for local information and events.
Many treatment options exist. SAMHSA’s Behavioral Health Treatments and Services webpage, www.samhsa.gov/treatment, helps people find mental and/or substance use disorder treatment facilities and programs across the country. SAMHSA’s National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or 1-800-487-4889 (TDD), provides 24-hour, free, and confidential information about mental and/or substance use disorders, and prevention, treatment, and recovery referrals in English and Spanish. Additionally, the “Treatment and
Recovery Support Services” section in this toolkit provides an overview of support options.
Refer to the “Mental and/or Substance Use Disorders: Fast Facts” section in this toolkit for up-to-date statistics on the prevalence of mental and/or substance use disorders in the United States.