If you’re struggling with substance use, you are not alone. Millions are affected by substance use disorder (SUD), and the global pandemic has brought on new and daunting challenges for the recovery community. However, it’s important to remember that among those affected by SUD are many who have restored their health and are living each day in sustained recovery.
September is National Recovery Month, and this month we are celebrating the achievements made by those in recovery, just as we celebrate the health improvements of patients managing other chronic health conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
Despite being classified as a disease in 1987, there’s still widespread misunderstanding of substance use disorder within our society. This misunderstanding has fueled intense stigma towards addiction and significantly impacts a person’s ability to achieve and sustain recovery. As U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams stated, “the biggest killer out there is stigma. Stigma keeps people in the shadows. Stigma keeps people from coming forward and asking for help. Stigma keeps families from admitting that there is a problem.”
At axialHealthcare, we’re mission-driven to change this narrative. That’s why we’re excited to celebrate National Recovery Month with a few special initiatives that shine a light on two important messages: SUD is a chronic brain disease that does not discriminate, and people can and do recover.
Throughout the month, we are participating in Shatterproof’s Stronger Than Addiction Challenge to honor the strength and courage of those impacted by addiction. Check out our team page here. We’ll also be highlighting some of our own employees who are in active recovery through a month-long video series. Watch our first video featuring Andy Thomas, VP of Provider Relations, here.