Get involved to spur recovery

To the editor:
All around us, people are in recovery from mental and/or substance use disorders. They are contributing to our businesses, connecting with their families and giving back to the community. But if we want more people to join them on a path of recovery, we need to take action — now.
Too many people are still unaware that prevention works, and that these conditions can be treated, just like we can treat other health disorders such as diabetes and hypertension. We need to work together to make recovery the expectation.
Individuals who embrace recovery achieve improved mental and physical health, as well as stronger relationships and a sense of self-worth. Mental and/or substance use disorders do not discriminate — they affect people of all ethnicities, ages, genders, geographic regions and socioeconomic levels.  
We can’t get discouraged by the prevalence of these problems, because help is available. In fact, in 2011, 31.6 million adults aged 18 or older received services for mental illness, and 2.3 million people aged 12 or older who needed treatment for an illicit drug or alcohol use problem received treatment at a specialty facility.
These individuals have achieved healthy lifestyles, both physically and emotionally, and contribute in positive ways to their communities. They need the support of a welcoming community to help them on their path of long-term recovery. Fortunately, surveys have shown more than 80 percent of Americans would think no less of a friend or relative who is in recovery from addiction.
To further educate communities about the pathways to recovery and to support people in recovery, every September, people throughout the nation celebrate National Recovery Month, an initiative sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
In addition, there are resources in Jay County that can significantly enhance access to the prevention, treatment and recovery support service coverage for persons with, or at risk of, mental and/or substance use disorders. Meridian Health Services, Celebrate Recovery and Alcohol Anonymous are just a few examples of local agencies or groups.
I urge local businesses, community organizations, colleges, schools, administrators and government agencies to get involved with activities that helps educate and supports our community’s efforts. Helping to spread the message that prevention works, treatment is effective and people recover from mental and/or substance use disorders can make a tremendous difference in the lives of many in our community.
We shouldn’t think twice about getting involved because together, we make recovery a reality.
Cara Kobza
Jay County[[In-content Ad]]