National Recovery Month observed in September

Department of Human Services supporting events to highlight benefits of treatment, recovery

Contact:
Kelsey Gorsen
Communications
651-431-2448

PDF version of news release

“Join the Voices of Recovery: It’s Worth It” is the theme for the 23rd annual National Recovery Month, being marked by the Minnesota Department of Human Services, its partners and nationally this September.

Recovery Month is intended to increase awareness that addiction treatment and mental health services can help those with a substance abuse and/or mental disorder to live a healthy and rewarding life. The purpose is to highlight gains made by those in recovery from these conditions, just as people are supported in their management of other health conditions. Recovery Month spreads the message that behavioral health is essential to overall health, that prevention works and treatment is effective, and that people can and do recover.

“During September, we encourage you to consider how you can increase your knowledge and understanding of addiction and recovery,” said Human Services Commissioner Lucinda Jesson. “This is an opportunity to dispel the myths and stigma surrounding substance use and mental disorders and to promote attitudes that will increase access to effective services, reduce health care costs, reduce crime and promote healthy communities.”

Among events sponsored by DHS and other organizations during Recovery Month are the Clean III Art Show at Your Art’s Desire Gallery in Minnetonka, the Walk for Recovery, Saturday, Sept. 15, at Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis, the Spirituality Breakfast, Friday, Sept. 21, at Augsburg College and the Sept. 7 Recovery Month Twins game (tickets are sold out). More information is available at www.minnesotarecovery.org.

DHS will host an event for policymakers 2:30 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 12, in Room 217 of the State Capitol. Speakers who are in recovery will share the benefits of investing in prevention, early intervention, treatment and recovery supports.

Recovery Month began in 1989 to honor treatment and recovery professionals. In 1998 it evolved into National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month to also celebrate those in recovery from substance use disorders. It changed in 2011 to National Recovery Month to include all aspects of behavioral health.