By Renee Schofield, CEO TSS
Observed every September since 1989, National Recovery Month focuses on all resources, supports, and events that can and should be provided to support those in recovery, those who are moving toward recovery, and their families. Most communities host events to showcase support services that are available, honor those loved ones lost to addiction and share hope in the future of recovery for others.
This is a good time to remind people that recovery is possible, I know, because I have seen it. My own family, my community, and those whom I serve in a professional capacity have realized recovery. It is work. Hard work. But it is possible.
Support Recovery-Friendly Communities
Before we even begin to talk about supporting recovery, we must understand that fostering a recovery-friendly community begins with solid community prevention strategies. Teaching our kids about safety in their lives is so critical. Understanding the dangers of substances that might become available to them can stop young people from choosing to use and save lives. As a community, we must do the prevention work. It is too important for the health of our kids. We also need to recognize that we all have to do the work to increase the accessibility of behavioral and mental health services and resources in our communities, as these are key to any recovery efforts.
I encourage everyone to take this month to educate themselves and others about risk factors, the resources that are available to those struggling with a substance use disorder and their families, and how to make the best use of these. Being in denial about the prevalence of addiction is not acceptable. Awareness is crucial to creating recovery-friendly communities and saving people from illicit drug use. Show up to an event, share your story, and be steadfast in talking to your legislators about the need for safety and prevention in communities, homes and workplaces. Visit SAMHSA.gov for more Recovery Month conversations and discover what your community has planned for September.
Make Supporting Recovery Personal
While National Recovery Month aims to increase public awareness and foster system-wide recovery support, each of us can also support recovery on a more personal level.
How can you support someone with an SUD?
A recent article in U.S. News and World Report, outlines some basic recommendations from addiction experts:
- Lead with empathy – “Recognize addiction as a health issue, not a character flaw. Speak with kindness and understanding to decrease stigma, as that often prevents individuals from seeking help,” advises addiction medicine specialist Dr. Sherma Morton. Use supportive statements expressing your concern and be understanding and caring when you approach someone about changes in their behaviors and what may be going on with them.
- Encourage them to seek help – Without judgment, ask your loved one about how they feel about their substance use, what they believe they need and whether they are interested in getting help. Even if they don’t respond favorably the first time, your support and lack of judgment may help them to come back to you when they are ready to accept help.
- If they respond positively, offer to assist them with exploring their options. Often, figuring out what is available and which of many treatment options would be a good fit is overwhelming to someone who is struggling. This kind of support can help someone overcome a huge roadblock.
- Provide consistent support – “Acknowledge progress, offer continuous encouragement and practice patience during difficult times,” Morton says, explaining that the recovery journey typically involves many ups and downs, setbacks, and successes. Consistent support “can involve regular check-ins, participating in healthy activities together or simply offering a nonjudgmental listening ear.”
- Take care of yourself, too – The recovery process is emotionally challenging, and you can’t support someone else’s recovery without prioritizing your own well-being. It is essential to establish boundaries and be clear about the behaviors you can and can’t tolerate. Ultimately, your loved one is responsible for their recovery.