September is once again National Recovery Month. This month-long national observance – now in its 27th year – is sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Its two f0ld-purpose is to:
- Increase awareness and understanding of mental health and substance use disorders
- Celebrate the successes of people in recovery
Coalitions across the United States have always been major stakeholders in National Recovery Month. The initiative serves as a platform for coalitions to collaborate with broad community sectors, to educate the public and raise awareness about mental and substance use disorders; promote national, state and local prevention, treatment and recovery resources; and pay tribute to the millions of Americans whose lives have been positively changed through recovery. This also includes recognizing the contribution of individuals’ family members, friends, neighbors and colleagues.
Coalitions should feel free to take advantage of SAMHSA’s website – National Recovery Month – which provides:
- Detailed programming ideas
- Social media strategies to get the word out about events in your area
- Downloadable toolkits in English and Spanish
- Easy-to-use ancillary materials including banners, logos, flyers and public service announcements (PSAs), which can also be downloaded and adapted to meet your local needs
