National Recovery Month is a national observance held every September to increase awareness and understanding of mental health and substance use disorders, while also encouraging individuals in need of treatment to seek help. 

The 2020 theme is Join the Voices for Recovery: Celebrating Connections, which embraces the connections to the diversity of people from all walks of life who are striving for recovery. 

Substance use disorders affect more than 20 million people in the U.S. These individuals are more likely to develop chronic conditions, have poorer health outcomes and encounter the criminal justice system. 

These disorders are complex brain diseases that must be treated like any other health condition. Even those who speak up often still sometimes find barriers to effective treatment. Eliminating the stigma and expanding access to treatment requires help from everyone. 

Each year, there are millions of lives transformed through recovery. Recovery Month continues to educate others on the effectiveness of treatment. 

This month, you might be wondering how you can help or make a difference. You've come to the right place. There are various ways to help spread awareness and support. Consider the following avenues: 

• Encourage others to talk about their personal stories of recovery, and listen/learn from their encounters.
  

• Share posts on social media regarding recovery and mental health to help get the word out. 
  

• Write to local officials and representatives, urging them to sign proclamations in support of Recovery Month. 
  

• Support and advocate for those who are working to recover.

• Start talking about mental health openly and honestly. 

If you or someone you know is need of mental health services/treatment, please contact us at (308) 210-8487 or email info@clearwatercounselingne.org.