September is National Recovery Month

Southeast Health Group is celebrating the 25th Anniversary of National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month. Recovery month celebrates individuals in recovery, acknowledges those who provide prevention, treatment and recovery support services and empowers those in need to seek treatment throughout the year. Being in recovery is a commitment to living a mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually healthy life.

Prevention Works. Alcohol and drug prevention begins in the home, with parents who set a good example, and get help when they need it. Prevention and early intervention can prevent many adolescent risk behaviors, and set young people on a healthier path.

Cakes created by Jennifer Dougherty, of Lamar, for National Recovery Month. Photos by Kathy Kelley.

Treatment is Effective. Research shows that engaging in outpatient group and individual counseling, along with participation in a 12-step program, is associated with lower levels of relapse to drug and alcohol use. People who struggle with addictions can learn strategies and gain the support they need to stay clean and sober.

People can and do recover from mental and substance use disorders. Recovery is possible and can transform individuals, families and communities. Everyone plays a vital role: our youth, adults, first responders, law enforcement, clergy, treatment providers, the recovering community and also policy makers.

Help is available. Southeast Health Group employs over 100 professionals throughout southeast Colorado to provide a network of care for mental health, substance use disorders, primary care and wellness. If you or someone you know is having a difficult time because of alcohol or drug use, call Southeast Health Group at 1-800-511-5446 for more information. Services are conveniently located in a community near you, and a sliding fee scale exists to make it affordable.

Cakes created by Jennifer Dougherty, of Lamar, for National Recovery Month. Photos by Kathy Kelley.

###