What Is National Recovery Month?
National Recovery Month is a national observance held every September since 1989 that promotes evidence-based treatment, celebrates the strength of the recovery community, and honors the service providers who support individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges. The initiative emphasizes that behavioral health is essential, prevention works, treatment is effective, and people can recover SAMHSA+1.
SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) and partners equip communities with toolkits, messaging, and resources to spread awareness and hope pttcnetwork.orgSAMHSA.
Important Dates & Recognitions in September
Here are notable observances during National Recovery Month that align with mental health, recovery, and awareness:
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World Suicide Prevention Day – September 10
Observed globally to promote suicide prevention and mental wellness. It coincides with National Recovery Month and emphasizes that support and open dialogue can save lives IndiatimesVerywell Mind. -
International Recovery Day – September 30
A global celebration recognizing that recovery is possible and fostering hope for individuals and communities Seven Counties ServicesFaces & Voices of Recovery. -
National Recovery Month Luncheon (Washington, D.C.)
A signature advocacy event each September, bringing together lived-experience advocates, policymakers, and recovery leaders Faces & Voices of Recovery.
While some older toolkits reference National Addiction Professionals Day (September 20), that specifically appears in earlier materials and was noted in 2021 SAMHSA. Additional events such as webinars, walks, or local gatherings often populate communities—check SAMHSA or local organizations for current 2025 schedules National Council for Mental WellbeingSouth Coast Counseling, Inc.
How to Get Involved in National Recovery Month
1. Use the SAMHSA Toolkit
Download and share social posts, graphics, virtual backgrounds, and materials—many customizable—with the hashtag #RecoveryMonth to amplify the message pttcnetwork.orgSAMHSA.
2. Engage with Weekly Themes
Create content (blogs, social posts, newsletters, events) aligned with themes:
- Week 1 (Health) — promote whole-health recovery
- Week 2 (Home) — focus on stability and family
- Weeks 3–4 (Community & Purpose) — highlight connection, meaning, and advocacy
3. Participate or Host Events
Join events like SAMHSA-affiliated webinars; nearby support groups; or national events like the Recovery Month luncheon National Council for Mental WellbeingFaces & Voices of Recovery. Organize local gatherings—community forums, storytelling, art exhibits, candlelight vigils—or online panels.
4. Advocate with Proclamations
Reach out to local officials (mayors, governors, county leaders) to issue a Recovery Month proclamation—a meaningful way to raise awareness and support SAMHSA.
5. Share Stories & Reduce Stigma
Whether yours or others', lived experiences and stories of resilience humanize recovery. Share when safe, with consent, to break down stigma and encourage others South Coast Counseling, IncSeven Counties Services.
6. Promote Suicide Awareness
Support initiatives around September 10 and beyond—educate on warning signs, amplify mental health support, and share available crisis resources like 988 Verywell Mind.