September is National Recovery Month & Suicide Prevention Awareness Month!

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

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National Recovery Month 2025

What is Recovery Month?

Recovery Month, observed every September, is a national initiative aimed at promoting awareness and understanding of mental health and substance use disorders, and celebrating the achievements of those in recovery. This month-long observance highlights the importance of behavioral health and acknowledges the contributions of treatment and service providers.

What type of events occur during Recovery Month that I can attend?

During Recovery Month, a variety of events are organized to celebrate recovery, raise awareness, and provide support. Here are some common types of events:

1. Educational workshops and webinars
2. Sober festivals or events
3. Memorial walks and/or runs
4. Candlelight Vigils

Check out our calendar here to find out what events are taking place near you!

What can I do to support a loved one in recovery?

Supporting a loved one in recovery is a meaningful and impactful way to help them on their journey. Here are some ways you can offer support:

1. Educate Yourself: Learn about their specific challenges and the recovery process. Understanding what they are going through can help you provide better support.
2. Be Patient and Understanding: Recovery is a long and sometimes difficult process. Show patience and understanding and avoid being judgmental.
3. Offer Emotional Support: Be there to listen without offering unsolicited advice. Sometimes, just having someone to talk to can make a big difference.
4. Encourage Healthy Habits: Support them in adopting healthy habits such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep.
5. Attend Support Meetings: If appropriate, attend support group meetings with them. This can show your commitment and provide additional encouragement.
6. Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate their achievements, no matter how small. This can boost their confidence and motivation.
7. Take Care of Yourself: Supporting someone in recovery can be emotionally taxing. Make sure to take care of your own mental and physical health as well.

What can I do to support my own recovery?

Supporting your own recovery is a courageous and empowering journey. Here are some strategies that can help:

1. Seek Professional Help: Engage with therapists, counselors, or support groups. Professional guidance can provide valuable tools and strategies for recovery.
2. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to situations that may jeopardize your recovery. Protect your mental and emotional health by setting clear boundaries.
3. Stay Active: Engage in hobbies and activities that bring you meaning and joy. Staying busy can help distract you from negative thoughts and behaviors.
4. Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, and peers. Join support groups where you can share experiences and gain encouragement.
5. Set Realistic Goals: Break down your recovery journey into manageable steps. Celebrate small victories along the way.

Did you know?

September was chosen as Recovery Month to align with the end of summer and the beginning of fall, symbolizing a time of change and new beginnings. This timing reflects the journey of recovery, which often involves significant personal transformation and the start of a new chapter in life.

September is a time when many people return to routines and structure after the summer, making it an ideal period to focus on health and wellness. The month provides an opportunity to raise awareness, educate the public, and celebrate the successes of those in recovery, while also highlighting the importance of support systems and resources available to help individuals on their recovery journey.

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Resources:

• National Institute on Drug Abuse: Words Matter: Preferred Language for Talking About Addiction
• Centers for Disease Control: Stigma Reduction
• Home – SMART Recovery

Support Groups

• Find a support group for mental health, drugs, alcohol | SAMHSA
• NAMI Family Support Group
• Peer Recovery Support Centers | Mass.gov
• Meeting Finder – Marijuana Anonymous
• Learn to Cope – Addiction & Recovery Support Network
• Grief Support Groups | Support After a Death by Overdose
• Home • Recovery Dharma