September is National Recovery Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about substance use and mental health treatment. This month-long observance celebrates the achievements of those in recovery, works to reduce stigma, and promotes effective treatment options.
In this article, we’ll explore the significance of Recovery Month and share ways you can support this important cause.
Start recovering now. Call La Fuente at 888.903.9898.
What Is Recovery Month?
Established in 1989, Recovery Month is a national observance held every September to raise awareness about substance use treatment and mental health services.
It aims to celebrate the millions of Americans recovering from mental health and substance use disorders, including those with co-occurring disorders. By highlighting their success stories, Recovery Month emphasizes that treatment works and recovery is achievable.
Recovery Month also works to reduce the stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental health and substance use disorders, which can prevent individuals from seeking the help they need.
Additionally, Recovery Month promotes the latest evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, while honoring the commitment of service providers and communities dedicated to making recovery possible in all its forms.
As of 2022, the official tagline is “Recovery is for Everyone: Every Person. Every Family. Every Community.”
History of Recovery Month
Recovery Month is an annual series of events that originated in Massachusetts in 1989. At that time, it was called “Treatment Works! Celebration Day.” When the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) began overseeing it in 1999, the event was renamed “Recovery Month.”
SAMHSA spearheaded Recovery Month celebrations from 1999 to 2019. In 2020, the non-profit organization Faces & Voices of Recovery assumed leadership for the event’s planning and sponsorship.
One of their first changes was to simplify the name to “Recovery Month,” reflecting a more inclusive approach that acknowledges and supports recovery efforts worldwide, not just in the United States.
Why Is Recovery Month Important?
Recovery Month promotes awareness, understanding, and support for those recovering from substance use and mental health disorders. More specifically, bringing these issues to light challenges stigma, builds community, and fosters a more compassionate society.
Challenges Stigma
Addiction is often met with judgment and misunderstanding. Whether real or perceived, this stigma can deter people from seeking help, harming their physical and mental well-being and trapping them in vicious cycles.
Recovery Month aims to change the narrative by shedding light on the realities of addiction and sharing how people can end up in these situations. It also reveals personal stories behind the stereotypes to foster greater empathy and understanding.
Builds Community
Recovery Month is filled with events like rallies, exhibitions, talks, and picnics, all centered around the theme of recovery. For those whose experiences with addiction have been marked by shame, guilt, and social rejection, these activities offer a chance to connect with others. They provide an opportunity to engage in a spirit of pride, purpose, and dignity.
Promotes Understanding
Public gatherings during Recovery Month attract attention and spark curiosity. By sharing personal stories and involving the community, these events highlight the diverse experiences of recovery. They do more than inspire; they educate the public on the complexities of addiction and encourage a more compassionate response.
How to Celebrate Recovery Month
Celebrate Recovery Month with a variety of engaging events and activities designed to honor the journey of recovery, support those in need, and raise awareness. Here’s how you can participate and make a difference throughout the month.
National Addiction Professionals Day
September 20, 2024
Established by the Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC) , National Addiction Professionals Day celebrates the hard work of healthcare providers who support people on their path to recovery.
The Changing Face of Addiction Virtual Summit
September 21, 2024
A virtual summit that explores the evolving landscape of addiction treatment and recovery. The event will feature expert discussions, breakout sessions, and insights into the latest advancements in the field.
National Rally for Recovery
Chicago, September 21, 2024
Organized by Chicago Recovering Communities Coalition (CRCC) and North Illinois Recovery Community Organization (NIRCO), the National Rally for Recovery takes place from 9 AM to 4 PM. It will include live music, entertainment, recovery resources, speakers, breakout panels, recovery-centered education, and activities for all ages.
International Recovery Day
September 30, 2024
International Recovery Day seeks to support individuals, families, and communities worldwide by providing hope and encouragement in the fight against addiction. The color purple, whether displayed through fireworks, flags, or ribbons, symbolizes progress in addiction treatment and advocates for global support.
Browse SAMHSA’s Recovery Month Toolkit
Access tools and resources to help spread awareness about recovery. The toolkit includes social media content, educational materials, and promotional items such as social media images, stickers, email signatures, and profile frames.
Use Hashtags
To join the conversation and make your content discoverable, use these hashtags when posting about recovery on social media:
#RecoveryMonth (primary)
#RecoveryMonth2024
#RecoveryIsPossible (secondary)
#Recovery
#Wellness
#EndtheStigma
Recovery Month 2024: Week-By-Week Themes and Goals
Developed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), these weekly themes provide a foundation from which addiction professionals and allies can create messaging for different audiences.
Week 1 (September 1–7): Health
Highlight aspects of well-being and their importance to recovery.
Key Message: We can strive to be healthier and achieve our wellness goals.
Week 2 (September 8–14): Home
Focuses on the impact a safe and stable living environment has on recovery from mental health and substance use problems.
Key Message: We all need a stable and safe place to call home.
Week 3 (September 15–21): Purpose
Highlights the importance of purpose as a motivator for positive change.
Key Message: Finding purpose in life may be a powerful driver for recovery.
Week 4 (September 22–28): Community
Demonstrate how feeling a sense of belonging can help people on their recovery journey.
Key Message: Building social support and a caring community is essential for recovery.
Recovery Month Events in LA
Celebrate Recovery Month close to La Fuente with a variety of engaging events in Los Angeles.
IRL: ZERO PROOF Sober Singles Night
September 17, 2024
Enjoy a sober evening full of opportunities to make new friends and possibly find romance. The event includes lawn games, board games, and a scavenger hunt, along with a selection of non-alcoholic beverages and food for purchase.
Open to all orientations, the event’s proceeds will support nonprofit counseling services in Los Angeles.
Mobilize Recovery 2024 Kick Off
September 20, 2024
This family-friendly event marks the kickoff of the Mobilize Recovery Across America 2024 Bus Tour, a nationwide initiative aimed at empowering individuals, families, and communities impacted by addiction and mental health issues.
The event will feature musical performances by American Idol winner Noah Thompson and Emily Rose & the Rounders, a Los Angeles band known for their contemporary take on traditional country music.
Additionally, attendees will hear inspiring recovery speeches from community members and Hollywood icon Danny Trejo.
Start Recovering Now at La Fuente Hollywood Treatment Center
Recovery Month is all about breaking down the stigma around addiction and mental health. By sharing our stories and supporting one another, we empower people to reach out for the help they need.
If you need help overcoming an addiction, reach out to La Fuente Hollywood Treatment Center. Located in West Hollywood, we are a leading LGBTQ-affirmative treatment.
We offer comprehensive care, including supervised detox, residential treatment, and outpatient programs (Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient). Our active alumni community and dedicated staff are here to support you throughout your recovery.
Call us today at 888.903.9898.
