What is Recovery Month?
RECOVERY MONTH is a national observance held every September to promote and support new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, the emergence of a strong and proud recovery community, and the dedication of service providers and community members across the nation who make recovery in all its forms possible.
How Can You Celebrate Recovery Month?
- Wear purple, the official color of Recovery Month
- Check out the AACDOH Event Calendar for Recovery Month events throughout Anne Arundel County
- Learn about the importance of destigmatizing language
- Follow the DOH on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube for more
Weekly Themes
Week 1 (Sep 1–7): Health
This week we highlight aspects of well-being and their importance to recovery.
Key Message: We can strive to be healthier and achieve our wellness goals.
- We can overcome challenges related to mental health and substance use conditions.
- It is OK to reach out for help with substance use and mental health conditions.
- Making informed healthy choices can support our well-being.
- It's OK and important to reach out for help, especially if addiction or mental health conditions are affecting our relationships, work, or day-to-day life.
Week 2 (Sep 8–14): Home
This week’s focus is on the impact a safe and stable living environment has on recovery from mental health and substance use problems.
Key Message: We all need a stable and safe place to call home.
- A home provides the foundation for a life in recovery.
- Home is a safe, stable, and soft space to land...even on those really hard days.
- Creating safe, affordable housing for all with mental health and substance use conditions supports their recovery.
Week 3 (Sep 15–21): Purpose
This week we highlight the importance of purpose as a motivator for positive change.
Key Message: Finding purpose in life may be a powerful driver for recovery.
- Purpose includes meaningful daily activities.
- Employment can support recovery, give a sense of purpose, and a way to provide for yourself and your family.
- Purpose may include a job, school, volunteering, caregiving, or creative pursuits.
- Spirituality can bring a sense of purpose and meaning that helps foster recovery.
- Helping others can bring a great sense of purpose and contribute to recovery.
Week 4 (Sep 22–28): Community
This week we highlight how feeling a sense of belonging can help people on their recovery journey.
Key Message: Building social supports and a caring community is essential for recovery.
- We do not recover alone. Recovery can be easier with the support of others.
- Community can include people who accept us and encourage us to grow.
- Family, friends, peers, and others play an important role in someone’s recovery.
- Recovery is supported through meaningful relationships.
- Social inclusion, not isolation, is important for recovery.
Show Us Your Sign!
Show us your sign by submittimg your own photo.
Events
There is Hope and and Joy in Recovery
Despite the high number of overdose deaths, research shows that most people with substance use disorder recover and lead fulfilling lives.
Host Rachel Martin talks to individuals who overcame their addictions and achieved significant life milestones.