Celebrating Recovery Month: Change is possible.
What is recovery?
Since 1989, September has marked National Recovery Month. This month is a time to celebrate people’s recovery journeys and the strength of community. This month also gives us a chance to promote and support evidence-based treatments and recovery practices. During September, we can renew our commitment to building stronger systems that support recovery for all.
Recovery Month also gives us an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of “recovery” and how people experience it. Recovery is unique to each person. It’s about making changes over time that can help you feel better physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It’s about living life on your own terms through your own choices, and working toward reaching your goals, whether big or small. Each person’s definition of recovery can change over time, and the ways you support your own recovery can change, too. Recovery doesn’t always mean someone is abstinent.
For a deeper look at the recovery process, visit our Recovery page. You’ll find information about medication for addiction treatment (MAT), recovery coaching, Peer Recovery Support Centers, harm reduction spaces, and more.
How do I start and stay in recovery?
There’s no wrong place to begin recovery. Your recovery might start with:
- Practicing safer use or visiting a harm reduction provider
- Taking medication for addiction treatment (MAT)
- Talking to someone you trust, like your doctor, faith leader, or family member
- Joining a Peer Recovery Support Center
- Joining a self-help or 12-step program.
At the Helpline, we believe that recovery is sustained by connection. A strong support circle—loved ones, social networks, community—can share in the good feelings and help work through the hard ones. In addition to the supports mentioned above, you might find recovery-specific support by connecting with recovery coaches, recovery homes, and recovery learning communities. And faith, therapy, sports, art, meditation, or anything that keeps you feeling healthy can also be great sources of connection and community.
Change is possible and you don’t have to do it alone.
We’re here for you. We can help you find and connect to the services you want. Call or text “HOPE” to 800.327.5050, chat with us online, or search for services.