Supporting National Recovery Month in September: How You Can Make a Difference
Sep 09, 2024
September is National Recovery Month, a time to celebrate those who are in recovery from substance use and mental health disorders, raise awareness about the importance of treatment, and reduce the stigma that often surrounds addiction. Whether you’re in recovery, know someone who is, or simply want to show your support, there are many ways to get involved this September.
Here’s how you can make a meaningful impact during National Recovery Month:
- Educate Yourself and Others
Understanding the complexities of addiction and mental health is a crucial first step in supporting recovery. Learn about the science of addiction, the various paths to recovery, and the challenges people face during the process with a certification from the International Association of Professional Recovery Coaches.
You can share articles, documentaries, or podcasts with friends, family, and colleagues to foster a more supportive environment. Here’s a List of Recovery Podcasts that I’ve been featured on.
Key resources:
SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) offers a wealth of information and tools to understand addiction and recovery.
Books & Memoirs: Reading personal stories of recovery can provide deep insight into the journey. Read my blog, Best Books for Alcohol Recovery
- Attend Local or Virtual Events
Many organizations host events throughout September to honor National Recovery Month. Whether it’s a walk for recovery, a panel discussion, or a virtual seminar, participating in these events shows solidarity and helps spread awareness.
Where to find events:
- Look up local non-profit organizations dedicated to addiction recovery.
- Explore social media platforms or websites like **Faces & Voices of Recovery** for virtual events and webinars.
-check out Event Bright, Meet Up, and search hashtags like #sobercommunity on social media. I just returned from a wonderful event hosted by Zero Proof Experiences.
- Support Loved Ones in Recovery
If you know someone on their recovery journey, this month is a great time to show extra support. Recovery can be isolating, so being present—whether it’s through a heartfelt conversation, a check-in text, or attending support group meetings together—can make a world of difference. Listen to this episode of my Peripeteia Podcast to learn more about resources to support a loved one.
Ways to support loved ones:
- Practice active listening without judgment.
- Offer to join them in healthy activities like walks or yoga.
- Help them celebrate recovery milestones, no matter how small.
- Volunteer at or Donate to Recovery Organizations
Recovery is a lifelong journey, and many people rely on organizations that offer resources and support. Donating your time or money to these organizations can help extend their reach and improve the lives of those in recovery. As a SheRecovers Designation Coach, I recommend SheRecovers, a not-for-profit organization that supports women in recovery. I also volunteer for Shatterproof an organization on a mission to transform addiction treatment.
Places to support:
- Local Recovery Centers: They often need volunteers for everything from administrative work to peer support.
- National Hotlines and Helplines: These services can always use additional funding to ensure they’re available 24/7.
- Share Your Own Story (If You Feel Comfortable)
If you’re someone in recovery, sharing your story can inspire others to seek help. Personal testimonies have the power to break down stigma and provide hope to those who may feel alone. Whether through a blog post, social media, or a local event, your story can make a difference. Getting comfortable with our story and sharing it out loud is one of the most powerful things we can do.
- Advocate for Policy Change
Addiction and mental health care are often underfunded and overlooked in public policy. Advocate for change by writing to local representatives, signing petitions, or participating in advocacy campaigns that aim to increase access to affordable treatment and support services. There is a lot of work being done by the U.S. Department of Labor to create Recovery Ready Workplaces. You can learn more about workplace resources here.
Policy initiatives to follow:
- Expanded access to mental health and substance use treatment services.
- Improved healthcare coverage for recovery programs.
- Practice Self-Care and Mindfulness
Supporting others is essential, but taking care of yourself should also be a priority during Recovery Month. Whether you’re in recovery or supporting someone else, self-care helps you remain resilient. Incorporate mindfulness, meditation, or other healthy habits into your routine.
- Promote Stigma Reduction
Stigma around addiction can prevent individuals from seeking help. Use your voice and platforms to share compassionate, non-judgmental messages about recovery. Normalize the conversation about mental health and addiction, and challenge misconceptions whenever they arise.
Ways to reduce stigma:
- Avoid terms like “addict” or “junkie” and use person-first language, such as “person with a substance use disorder.”
- Highlight recovery as a lifelong process, not just a single event.
National Recovery Month is a powerful opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those affected by addiction. By raising awareness, supporting loved ones, and advocating for better resources, you contribute to a larger movement of compassion, understanding, and hope. Whether your involvement is big or small, your actions this September can help change lives.
Let’s celebrate recovery and promote a world where everyone has access to the support they need.
