WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--September marks the 25th Anniversary of Recovery Month, a national observance sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, that raises awareness of mental and substance use disorders; celebrates individuals in long-term recovery; and acknowledges the work of prevention, treatment, and recovery support services.
In 2012, 43.7 million people age 18 or older had a mental illness, according to the 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, an annual survey released SAMHSA. However, only 34.1 million people received mental health services. In addition, 23.1 million people age 12 or older needed treatment for an illicit drug or alcohol use problem in 2012, but only 3.8 million received treatment for a substance use disorder.
“Each one of these brave people has found the courage, strength, and commitment to embark on their own unique recovery journey while reshaping their lives with their stories of challenge and triumph,” said Diana Williams, director of Altarum Institute’s Behavioral Health Center. “We are embracing the celebration of recovery too and are planning events with our staff, as well as opportunities for education and awareness for our communities. Through these events, we encourage individuals and families to stand up and out by sharing their stories of hope.”
To tell your own story, please visit www.altarum.org/RecoveryMonth2014.
To learn more, please visit the SAMHSA Recovery Month website or Altarum Institute.
SAMHSA is a public health agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. Its mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America’s communities.
Altarum Institute (http://www.altarum.org) integrates objective research and client-centered consulting skills to deliver comprehensive, systems-based solutions that improve health and health care. Altarum employs almost 400 individuals and is headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with additional offices in the Washington, DC, area; Portland, Maine; and San Antonio, Texas.
