National Recovery Month

National Recovery Month was established in 1989 by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA) to bring attention to mental health and addiction recovery. SAMSHA intended to provide those who have overcome substance use disorders a chance to share their stories of triumph in order to inspire those who are still struggling to see that a healthier and more fulfilling life is attainable and that recovery is possible. Evidence-based treatment and recovery strategies are supported and promoted throughout National Recovery Month. 

In 2017, 46.6 million people aged 12 and older had a mental illness, according to SAMHSA data. 11.2 million of this group suffered from a severe mental illness. In addition, 19.7 million individuals across the same age range suffered from an alcohol or drug use disorder. 7.5 million people battled a substance use disorder, while 14.5 million suffered from alcohol use disorder (AUD). In 2017, alone, more than 72,000 Americans lost their lives to a drug overdose.

What are some signs of alcohol or drug addiction?

  • Urges to use or drink regularly 

  • Unsuccessful attempts to stop or limit amount of substance

  • Giving up plans in order to drink or sleep off a hangover

  • Problems with work or school performance or attendance

  • Conflict in relationships due to substance use

Check out this tool that can help you assess whether or not you may have a substance use disorder: https://americanaddictioncenters.org/self-assessment

If you or someone you know is struggling with a substance use disorder, you may feel very isolated and discouraged because you feel powerless over your addiction. Maybe you have attempted to stop using, but battle to maintain sobriety. Staying sober on your own is challenging. There is hope for long-term sobriety, recovery and healing. 

Many resources exist to facilitate the process of recovery, including medication, support groups, outpatient programs, detox and residential treatment options. 

Discover groups or organizations that can link you with individuals who understand your disease so that you have a strong sober support network you can rely on for help and guidance. Here is a highlight of free support groups and harm reduction services in Georgia:

If you are looking for treatment options, the Georgia Crisis and Access Line at 1-800-715-4225 is available 24/7 and can help you find a detox bed or crisis intervention services.

No matter which path you take to sobriety, taking the first step is crucial and brave. All you need is an ounce of willingness to walk through the doors to a meeting or treatment facility and you will find that you are not alone. You will find that people do recover. And you can recover too.

Authored By: Julianna Robinson

References:

Bose, J., Hedden, S., Lipari, R., & Park-Lee, E. (n.d.). Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States . Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration . Retrieved September 9, 2022, from https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/cbhsq-reports/NSDUHFFR2017/NSDUHFFR2017.pdf