National Recovery Month celebrates and increases awareness around mental health and substance abuse recovery every year in September. This national observance is dedicated to highlighting the effectiveness of treatment programs and honoring those in recovery from addiction and mental illness. With increased education and awareness, these recovery stories can emphasize the possibility of living a fulfilling life after addiction and mental illness.

Why National Recovery Month Matters

Every September since 1989, National Recovery Month has educated the public on the importance of accessible treatment for those battling addiction or mental health. Celebrating National Recovery Month inspires and supports those needing evidence-based treatment and recovery support. It also provides the opportunity to break the stigma surrounding mental illness and drug and alcohol addiction.

Education on Substance Abuse, Addiction, and Mental Illness

When it comes to drug and alcohol abuse and addiction, many individuals are unaware of the signs, symptoms, and risks associated. Substance abuse, such as alcohol abuse, prescription drug abuse, and illicit drug use (heroin, cocaine), can lead to the development of a substance use disorder (SUD). Drug and alcohol addiction has far-reaching effects on health and well-being, leading to psychological, physical, and social harm.

Struggling with alcohol or drug abuse can also contribute to mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, paranoia, and suicidal ideation. Just as addiction can lead to the development or worsening of mental health problems, battling mental illness can also lead to substance abuse. Individuals living with a mental illness may seek out alcohol or drugs to temporarily mitigate or cope with their symptoms. Using substance use as a coping mechanism creates a toxic cycle, exacerbating mental health conditions and addiction.

The Stigma Around Drug and Alcohol Addiction

The stigma surrounding mental health and addiction continues to deter many struggling individuals from having open conversations and seeking help. With increased awareness and education on mental health and substance abuse, the public can better understand the nature of addiction and mental illness.

1 in 5 Americans suffer from a mental health disorder, and almost 6 in 10 people with mental illness don't receive medication or treatment. Over 48 million individuals met diagnostic criteria for a substance use disorder (SUD) in the US.

Understanding that addiction is a chronic, relapsing disorder, not a moral weakness or failing, can help family members and friends better support their loved ones. Mental illness is not a character flaw or lack of willpower but a medical condition characterized by clinically significant cognitive, emotional, or behavioral disruptions. Breaking the stigma can help more people seek and receive evidence-based treatment, facilitating more recovery stories from those battling mental illness or addiction.

6 Ways to Support Addicted Loved Ones During Recovery Month

You don't have to be in recovery or know someone in recovery to celebrate National Recovery Month. During September, you can help raise awareness for mental health and substance abuse recovery, further supporting the fight to break the stigma. Your participation in supporting recovery efforts can help create a space for others to educate themselves, speak out, and seek recovery.

If you know of someone or have a loved one in recovery from mental illness or addiction, here are some ways you can support them on their journey.

1. Educate Yourself About Mental Health and Addiction Recovery

One of the most effective ways you can support someone in addiction or mental health recovery is by educating yourself. Substance use disorder (SUD) is a chronic disease characterized by compulsive cravings and drug-seeking behaviors. Recovery from a drug or alcohol addiction is most successful through a holistic treatment program that treats the emotional and psychological aspects of addiction. Comprehending the nature of substance use disorders (SUDs), effective treatment modalities, and the emotional elements equips you to assist better and encourage those in recovery.

Mental illness can be a result of chemical imbalances in the brain, biological factors, history of trauma or abuse, or substance abuse. There are several different types of mental health disorders, including:

• Major depressive disorder (depression)
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Panic disorder
• Social anxiety disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Eating disorders
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Recovery and treatment for a mental illness can be accomplished through psychotherapy, behavioral therapies, medication management, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). You can further educate yourself on addiction and mental health through research articles, reading books, and resources on SUDs and recovery.

Attending family and friend support groups like Nar-Anon or Al-Anon provides a space to learn from others with similar situations and experiences. By gaining insight into what someone recovering from addiction or mental illness is going through, you can provide more empathetic and meaningful support.

2. Offer Non-Judgmental Emotional Support

Addiction and mental illness can create feelings of shame and loneliness in those struggling. Being a supportive family member or friend for a loved one in recovery creates a non-judgmental space for them to be vulnerable. You can provide emotional support by listening without judgment, encouraging, and practicing patience. Supporting someone through addiction or mental health recovery often means simply being present and patient during the good and bad times.

3. Encourage Healthy Habits and Routines

Recovering from a mental health or substance use disorder often involves modifying old habits and routines. Encouraging a loved one to develop healthy habits and routines can help them improve their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. These habits can include daily physical activity, such as walking, yoga, pilates, weight lifting, or strength training. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as guided meditation, deep breathing, or stress management, can help manage anxiety and cravings in recovery. Nutrition and diet play a significant role in holistic healing from addiction and mental illness.

You can help them create a balanced diet plan, exercise routine, relaxation technique, or even engage in these activities together. While encouraging healthy routines is essential, being a role model for healthy behaviors and habits can often be more influential. Your healthy lifestyle can encourage loved ones to prioritize their health and well-being in recovery.

4. Set Healthy Boundaries

While support in addiction and mental health recovery is essential, setting healthy boundaries is equally as important. Recovery is complex and often emotionally draining, so setting healthy boundaries protects your and your loved one's well-being. Boundaries help maintain a steady balance between caring for yourself and supporting your friend or family member in recovery. Be clear about your limits and what behaviors you aren't comfortable with or won't tolerate. Avoid enabling a loved one in recovery, such as making excuses for their behavior, as this could trigger a relapse. 

5. Encourage Professional Help and Aftercare

If you have a family member or friend struggling with mental illness or addiction, encouraging them to seek professional help is crucial for long-term recovery. Drug and alcohol addiction often requires drug detox and rehab treatment, counseling, and ongoing aftercare support for recovery. You can help search for the right resources, such as therapists, drug rehab centers, or support groups.

Remember to acknowledge their progress and celebrate their commitment if you have a loved one in an active recovery program. Celebrating big and small victories can give them a boost of encouragement and reassurance that they're on the right path. 

6. Spread Mental Health and Addiction Awareness

While supporting a loved one during National Recovery Month and every month after is about emotional support and encouragement, it's also about spreading awareness. Educating others on mental health and addiction sends an extra reminder that you're actively supporting your loved ones, even when you're not together or communicating. Advocating for substance abuse and mental illness recovery inspires hope, healing, and long-term success in recovery.

References:

• NAADAC. National Recovery Month.
• National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2011. Drug Misuse and Addiction.
• Western Journal of Medicine, 2000. Addiction is a treatable disease, not a moral failing.
• World Health Organization, 2022. Mental disorders.
• National Alliance on Mental Illness, 2023. Mental Health By the Numbers.
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2024. 2023 NSDUH Detailed Tables.