National Recovery Month celebrates transformations, renewed relationships, and hope

At Rosecrance Behavioral Health, we know healing from addiction looks different for each individual, but finding recovery is possible for anyone.

During National Recovery Month, communities nationwide are urged to join together in resounding applause to honor and celebrate those individuals who have overcome past struggled and embraced a life of recovery. This is a time to show gratitude and recognition to the individuals in recovery, the dedicated professionals who have played a crucial role in supporting them on their journey toward wellness and fulfillment, and loved ones who never gave up hope.

The detrimental impact of the substance use crisis on numerous American communities and their residents cannot be overstated. However, the resilience and strength of those battling substance use disorders, with the support of professionals, have resulted in nearly 21 million adults in the United States achieving recovery, according to data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. 

Substance use disorder is a complex condition that affects a person’s brain and behavior, leading to their inability to control the use of legal or illegal substances despite the harmful consequences. About half of the individuals who experience a substance use disorder during their lifetime will also experience a co-occurring disorder, such as anxiety disorder, depression, or bipolar disorder, according to the National Institute on Drug Use. This highlights the importance of adopting a complete behavioral health approach in treating substance use disorders.

Substance use disorder have far-reaching effects that extend beyond the individual grappling with addiction, touching the lives of families across every corner of the United States. When an individual becomes trapped by the clutches of substances or alcohol, it not only causes them immeasurable anguish but also casts a shadow upon those nearest and dearest to them, including friends and family. 

Counselors at Rosecrance Behavioral Health emphasize that loved ones often find themselves putting their own lives on hold, willingly sacrificing personal priorities to provide unwavering care and support to the person struggling with addiction. Stress levels soar to staggering heights, and semblance of normalcy fades into a distant memory.

People suffering from mental health or substance use disorders often experience profound feelings of  isolation and loneliness. Addiction, in particular, is commonly described as a “disease of isolation,” emphasizing the degree to which individuals grappling with substance use may feel cut off from support and understanding. 

But there is always a better way. At Rosecrance Behavioral Health, compassionate experts are dedicated to providing the necessary support and guidance to individuals seeking to embark on a personalized journey toward self-care and recovery. 

Finding recovery can be a transformative experience with the proper support. It provides individuals with the opportunity to lead a healthier, more fulfilling life, allowing them to heal themselves and repair the relationships that were damaged by substance use. While overcoming a substance use disorder may present challenges, it is a treatable, chronic medical condition that many individuals can find success with the proper evidence-based support.

“The journey of recovery has been a powerful force, bringing about positive transformations in the lives of millions of individuals. Whether it marks a milestone of eight days, eight months, or an impressive 18 years, take pride in your remarkable achievement of abstaining from substances, and let your story serve as inspiration to others,” said Dr. Raymond Garcia. Chief Medical Officer for Rosecrance.