Celebrating National Recovery Month: Honoring Hope, Healing & Resilience
By: Krista Mueller, LCPC
Every September is recognized as National Recovery Month — a powerful time to celebrate individuals who are in recovery from mental health and substance use challenges, honor the professionals who support them, and spread hope that recovery is not only possible, but worth fighting for.
No matter where you are in your recovery journey, whether that be five days, five months, or five years, you are allowed to celebrate yourself! You are doing hard work.
If you are supporting a loved one in their recovery journey, you are allowed to be celebrated as well, as that can also be hard work!
The Importance of National Recovery Month
Celebrating and recognizing National Recovery Month allows us to:
- Reduce stigma surrounding mental illness and addiction
- Raises awareness of available support and treatment options
- Celebrate stories of resilience, courage, and transformation
- Promote community by bringing together families, friends, providers, and neighbors
Recovery isn’t a straight line — it’s full of highs, lows, often relapses, and meaningful milestones. The recognition of recovery in September encourages us to recognize every step forward and support those still finding their path.
How to Get Involved
- Educate yourself and others — Share facts about recovery and mental health on social media using #RecoveryMonth. Share tips/skills/resources that have helped you personally or a love one or do your own research to find statistics, facts, and support for others in their journey!
- Share your story — If you feel comfortable, telling your recovery journey can inspire others. Write it. Record it. Speak it. Whichever you prefer!
- Support someone you love — A simple check-in or word of encouragement can go a long way. Invite them to a sober event or just to hang out with you!
Resources for Support & Recovery
If you or someone you know is seeking help, these trusted resources are here when you need them:
| Resource | Description |
| SAMHSA National Helpline | Free, confidential treatment referral & information |
| 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | 24/7 support for mental health, suicide, and substance use crises – Text/Call 988 |
| FindTreatment.gov | Nationwide directory of treatment providers |
| NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) | Support groups, advocacy, and education |
| Shatterproof | Addiction education, advocacy, and support |
| SMART Recovery | Find peer support groups for addiction recovery |
| Narcotics Anonymous | Find peer support groups for NA recovery |
| Alcohol Anonymous | Find peer support groups for AA recovery |
| The Phoenix | Weekly sober events and activities |
Other resources to utilize is SAMHSA’s Recovery Month Toolkit, as it has weekly themes to focus on, hashtags, sticker downloads, and more information on recovery support!
Some apps that have individuals have claimed to be helpful (and free) are:
I am Sober – Tracker & resources for ceasing undesired behaviors such as substance use, alcohol use, etc.
Habiticia – Habit and productivity app that treats your real life like a game.
How We Feel – Learn emotion vocabulary, daily check ins, and track feelings.
Final Thoughts
National Recovery Month is a celebration of strength, courage, and community. Whether you’re in recovery, supporting someone on their journey, or simply believe in mental wellness for all — this month is for you. Let’s use September to uplift stories of healing, advocate for accessible care, and remind each other that recovery is possible — and worth celebrating every day!
Owens Counseling & Therapy does offer Addiction Counseling, whether that is with a CADC or a clinician with experience and knowledge with supporting individuals struggling with addiction.