What Is National Recovery Month?
National Recovery Month is observed each September to celebrate people in recovery, promote evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, and recognize the families, providers and communities that help make recovery possible.
Recovery Month is a reminder that recovery can look different for every person. By sharing reliable information, reducing stigma and helping people understand where treatment and support are available, individuals and communities can make it easier for someone to take the next step.
In addition to this celebratory aspect, the observance of Recovery Month extends to several supporting aims. One is to increase awareness and understanding of substance use disorder and encourage those in need of help to seek treatment. Another is to promote the best in evidence-based addiction treatment and recovery practices. A further aim is to emphasize that addiction often coincides with mental health struggles, such as anxiety, depression and others, and intersects with them as co-occurring disorders.
How to Participate in National Recovery Month
Whether you’re in recovery yourself, support someone who is, or simply wish to promote the cause, there are many ways to get involved:
- Attend or support a Recovery Month event in your community.
- Reach out to someone in recovery and recognize their progress without asking them to share more than they are comfortable sharing.
- Share reliable treatment and recovery resources using #RecoveryMonth and #NationalRecoveryMonth.
- Learn how substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health conditions can affect individuals and families.
- Support recovery throughout the year through local organizations, recovery meetings and alumni support, or family-support resources.
Explore more ways to celebrate National Recovery Month.
When Is National Recovery Month?
National Recovery Month takes place every September. Events and educational campaigns may vary by year and community, but the purpose remains the same: celebrate recovery, raise awareness and help people connect with treatment and ongoing support.
Recovery Month Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of National Recovery Month?
Recovery Month celebrates people in recovery, recognizes the people and organizations that support them and increases awareness that treatment and recovery support are available.
How can I support someone during Recovery Month?
Listen without judgment, respect their privacy, recognize their progress and share treatment or recovery resources when they ask for help.
You can also find addiction treatment near you.
If you or a loved one is struggling with drugs and alcohol, call us now at 1-800-RECOVERY or contact us online.
