Join us | Recovery Fest | Saturday, September 21| Holland's Centennial Park

The road to recovery is not a one-step solution, but a daily challenge and long-term path to wellness. This is especially true for individuals who simultaneously experience a mental illness and substance use disorder.

Throughout September, communities nationwide have the opportunity to inspire and advocate for individuals and families who are seeking help. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recognizes September as National Recovery Month. Together, we can promote SAMHSA’s efforts by spreading the positive message that prevention works, treatment is effective and people can and do recover from mental health and substance use disorders.

On Saturday, September 21, 2019 join us at Centennial Park in Holland for Recovery Fest from 11am-3pm. During Recovery Fest there will be people speaking to how recovery has changed their lives, live music, free food, and family friendly activities. Several area agencies will also be available offering information about services.

This year’s theme, “Join the voices for recovery: Together we are stronger,” emphasizes the need to share resources and build networks in our community to support the many paths to recovery. It reminds us that mental and substance use disorders affect all of us and we are all part of the solution.

It’s important to remember that individuals are not alone in their journey to recovery. According to SAMHSA’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health among the 19.7 million adults in the U.S. who experienced a substance use disorder, 8.5 million adults, had a co-occurring mental illness in 2017. At the same time, countless American communities have suffered because of the opioid crisis. The survey found approximately 11.4 million aged 12 or older in the U.S. misused opioids in 2017. Therefore, seeking treatment and making the commitment to a sustainable recovery can be the first step in combating a mental health or substance use disorder.

Substance use disorders and mental health disorders can affect anyone. As we recognize that these may be prevented, we must also remember that individuals have the potential to recover. SAMHSA’s website (www.samhsa.gov/treatment) offers more than 11,000 specialized facilities in the U.S. that provide rehabilitation services, behavioral therapy, counseling, medication support and other services. Its National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) provides free and confidential information about mental and substance use disorders, along with prevention, treatment and recovery choices.

Seeking help is nothing to be ashamed of, and there are many available resources that provide support and treatment. During the 30th annual Recovery Month, we celebrate those who are on the road to recovery, and those who are dedicated to providing resources, services and treatment for substance use and mental health disorders.