Every September, communities across the United States observe National Recovery Month. It’s a time to celebrate the millions of Americans living in recovery from substance use and mental health conditions, recognize the people who support them, and send a simple message to anyone still struggling: recovery is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone.
At Sequoia Recovery Centers, we see that truth every day. Here’s what Recovery Month is, where it came from, and how you can take part, in September and all year long.
National Recovery Month at a Glance
- When: Every September
- What: A national observance that celebrates recovery, reduces stigma, and promotes the message that treatment works
- Who leads it: Faces & Voices of Recovery, a national recovery advocacy organization, with support from SAMHSA
- Who it’s for: People in recovery, families, treatment professionals, and anyone affected by addiction or mental health conditions
- Symbol: The color purple is commonly used to represent recovery awareness
The History of National Recovery Month
Recovery Month began in 1989 under the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). At first, it was called Treatment Works! Month and focused on honoring the professionals who work in addiction treatment.
Over the years, the observance grew and changed its name to reflect a wider mission. It became National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, and later National Recovery Month. The focus shifted from treatment providers alone to people in recovery themselves, as well as their families and communities. Mental health recovery was added alongside substance use recovery.
In 2020, SAMHSA passed stewardship of Recovery Month to Faces & Voices of Recovery. That move put the recovery community itself at the center of the observance. SAMHSA still publishes a yearly toolkit, and thousands of treatment centers, recovery community organizations, and local groups host their own events.
Why Recovery Month Matters
It Reduces Stigma
Stigma is one of the biggest barriers to getting help. Many people delay treatment because they feel ashamed, fear judgment, or believe addiction is a moral failing. It isn’t. Addiction is a disease of the brain, not a lack of willpower. When people share their recovery stories openly, it helps others see that recovery is real and within reach.
It Shows That Treatment Works
Recovery Month reminds people that substance use disorders are treatable. With evidence-based care, including medical detox, therapy, and ongoing support, people rebuild their health, relationships, and lives.
It Honors Families and Supporters
Recovery rarely happens in isolation. Parents, partners, children, friends, sponsors, counselors, and peer supporters all play a role. Recovery Month recognizes the people who show up.
It Reaches People Who Are Still Struggling
Perhaps most importantly, Recovery Month creates a moment when someone who has been quietly struggling might hear a story, see a post, or talk with a friend and decide it’s time to reach out.
How to Take Part in National Recovery Month
You don’t have to organize a big event to make a difference. Here are meaningful ways to participate.
If you’re in recovery:
- Celebrate your progress, whether it’s been 30 days or 30 years
- Share your story, if and when you feel comfortable
- Reconnect with your support network or attend an extra meeting
- Reach out to someone earlier in their journey
If you love someone in recovery:
- Tell them you’re proud of them
- Ask how you can support them, without judgment
- Learn more about addiction as a medical condition
- Take care of your own well-being, too. Support groups for families can help.
If you want to support recovery in your community:
- Attend a local recovery walk, rally, or open house
- Wear purple to show support
- Share messages of hope on social media using #RecoveryMonth
- Carry naloxone (Narcan) and learn how to use it
- Use person-first language, like “a person with a substance use disorder” instead of “addict”
- Support local recovery community organizations
If you’re still struggling:
- Know that you’re not alone and that help is available
- Take a confidential self-assessment to better understand your situation
- Talk to someone you trust, or reach out to a treatment provider
Recovery Support in the Spokane Area
Recovery looks different for everyone, and many people find strength in peer support alongside professional treatment. Learn more about some of the mutual-support options available:
- Alcoholics Anonymous: the 12-step fellowship for people recovering from alcohol use
- Celebrate Recovery: a Christ-centered recovery program
- Dharma Recovery: a Buddhist-inspired recovery path
For more tools and information, visit our Patient Resources page.
Recovery Doesn’t End in September
Recovery Month lasts 30 days, but recovery is a lifelong process. The same is true of the support people need. Relapse is not failure. It’s a signal that treatment may need to be adjusted or resumed.
At Sequoia Recovery Centers in Spokane Valley, we offer a full continuum of care so people can get the right level of support at every stage:
- Medical detox to safely manage withdrawal
- Residential inpatient treatment for 24-hour care and structure
- PHP, IOP, and outpatient programs for flexible, ongoing support
- Aftercare planning to help you stay connected long after treatment ends
Start Your Own Recovery Story
If Recovery Month has you thinking about your own relationship with drugs or alcohol, or about a loved one’s, there’s no better time to take the first step. Our admissions team is here to answer your questions confidentially, verify your insurance, and help you find the right level of care.
Contact Sequoia Recovery Centers or call 1-866-824-0709. We’re here when you’re ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Recovery Month?
National Recovery Month is observed every year throughout September.
Who started National Recovery Month?
SAMHSA started the observance in 1989. Since 2020, Faces & Voices of Recovery has led it, with continued support from SAMHSA.
What color represents National Recovery Month?
Purple is the color most commonly associated with recovery awareness.
Is Recovery Month only about addiction?
No. National Recovery Month celebrates recovery from both substance use disorders and mental health conditions.
How can I celebrate Recovery Month?
You can attend local events, wear purple, share stories of hope, support someone in recovery, carry naloxone, or take your own first step toward treatment.
What if I’m not ready for treatment yet?
That’s okay. You can still learn about your options, take a confidential self-assessment, or talk with our admissions team with no pressure and no commitment.
