National Recovery Month is an annual event sponsored by SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) that shines a light on the recovery community.
This annual observance is an opportunity to dispel ongoing myths about addiction, to break down stigma surrounding substance abuse and addiction, and to spread one unifying message: recovery is possible, even if the cycle of substance abuse seems unbreakable.
During National Recovery Month, the loved ones of those in recovery from drug addiction (substance use disorder) or alcoholism (alcohol use disorder) can participate by sharing their stories. Loved ones of those grappling with addiction will also get a chance to discover how to support someone in recovery most effectively. Everyone can participate in National Recovery Month 2023 this September, and everyone can get something different from this spotlight on evidence-based treatment for addiction.
What is National Recovery Month?
National Recovery Month started as Recovery Month in 1989. The national SAMHSA-sponsored observance is held each September in the United States. This observance aims to encourage and support emerging evidence-based practices for treatment and recovery. Beyond this, SAMHSA celebrates the addiction treatment service providers and the sober communities that make recovery from addiction achievable.
Through National Recovery Month, SAMHSA attempts to heighten public awareness of mental health issues and addiction recovery.
How to Get Involved in National Recovery Month 2023
Whether you are in recovery from addiction or you want to further addiction awareness in your community, there are many ways to get involved in National Recovery Month 2023. Three of the simplest ways to get started are:
- Attend a sober event
- Host a sober event
- Promote National Recovery Month on social media channels
Attend a sober event
Explore the National Recovery Month online portal to find in-person and virtual sober events or recovery support events near you.
National Addiction Professionals Day is observed on September 20 during National Recovery Month to highlight the dedication of these professionals to supporting the sustained recovery of those battling addictions.
Host a sober event
Check out the National Recovery Month site at NAADAC (The Association for Addiction Professionals) for event ideas.
Whether you are in recovery from addiction or your loved ones are in recovery, hosting a local gathering can help spread awareness, break down barriers to treatment, and help clarify some of the many misconceptions people hold about addiction.
Promote National Recovery Month on social media channels
One of the most straightforward ways to support National Recovery Month is by sharing the message of Recovery Month on your preferred social media channels. Specific ways to achieve this include:
- Share Recovery Month materials on your social profiles, website, or blog.
- Post links to recovery resources on your social profiles.
- Engage with National Recovery Month on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook.
- Share your recovery journey on your social profile.
- Promote sober events relating to National Recovery Month on your social profiles. Use the official hashtag: #recoverymonth.
