September is more than just the start of a new season; it’s National Recovery Month! This month celebrates the strength, courage, and resilience of individuals and families impacted by substance use and mental health challenges. At ARC, recovery is at the heart of everything we do every day, but this month gives us a dedicated moment to reflect, honor, and recommit to our mission of transformation and hope.
The History of Recovery Month
National Recovery Month was established in 1989 by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to increase awareness of mental health and substance use disorders, promote evidence-based prevention and treatment, and celebrate the success stories of individuals in recovery! Over the decades, it has grown into a nationwide campaign, encouraging communities to come together to support recovery journeys and reduce stigma.
The 2025 Theme: Recovery is REAL (Restoring Every Aspect of Life)
This theme highlights the importance of rebuilding every part of your life through recovery! SAMHSA identifies four key pillars of recovery to focus on this recovery month: health, home, community, and purpose. These components are vital for individuals to reach their full potential!
Why Recovery Month Matters
Recovery Month is an opportunity to highlight the extraordinary resilience of people in recovery, honor the dedicated professionals who support them, and educate communities about the importance of accessible, compassionate care. It’s a moment to challenge stigma, celebrate milestones, and reaffirm that recovery is possible for anyone, anywhere, at any time.
“Recovery Month is especially meaningful for those of us serving on the frontlines of the addiction crisis here in Kentucky,” said Vanessa Keeton, ARC’s first-ever client, now Vice President of Marketing. “We’ve seen momentous progress in both enhancing high-quality, effective treatment resources and in reducing the number of overdose fatalities across the Commonwealth. This month, we celebrate the victories won by the individuals God has entrusted to our care, and we recommit ourselves to helping all who walk through our doors begin writing their own success stories.”
Recovery Month reminds us that every person’s journey matters, every family is impacted, and every community can be strengthened. It’s a time to celebrate progress, inspire hope, and recommit to the belief that recovery is for everyone. 💙
To view powerful personal testimonials of recovery from ARC staff, please visit our YouTube channel.
