United in Recovery Celebrates Recovery Month during September

Join United in Recovery as they honor the lives and journey of recovery this September. From naloxone distributions to a 30-day self-care challenge, Recovery Month is for everyone - every person, every family, every community.

Since its start in 1989, National Recovery Month is held every September to promote and support our nation’s strong and proud recovery community, new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, and the dedication of service providers and communities who make recovery in all its forms possible.

United in Recovery is a program of the Susquehanna Valley and works to reduce drug overdoses and increase the number of community residents in recovery by improving access to education and treatment through supporting prevention, intervention, and community building in the fight against substance use disorder.

Numerous free naloxone distribution events will be held throughout the month of September. A full list can be found on the United in Recovery website under events. Naloxone (Narcan©) is a life-saving medication that has one purpose: to reverse an opioid overdose. It is an opioid antagonist that is used to reverse the effects of opioids by blocking opiate receptor sites. Community members can pick up naloxone kits along with information on substance use disorder treatment, counseling services, peer support, and basic needs assistance.

Every day, we lose 14 Pennsylvanians to substance use disorder. Fear of being judged and discriminated against can prevent people with substance use disorder (SUD) or people who are at risk of a SUD from getting the help they need. It can also prevent caregivers and others in the position to help from providing or seeking much needed services.

Self-care is often a critical component to long-term recovery. It includes nurturing both a person’s physical and mental health and can also help prevent relapse. During recovery, some of the key acts of self-care are connecting with other people and therapy which is why United in Recovery offers an annual 30-day self-care challenge as part of Recovery Month. Follow the United in Recovery Facebook page (@unitedinrecoverySVUW) for daily challenges and inspiration. A printable version of the calendar can also be downloaded here.

To learn more about Recovery Month and all the events United in Recovery is supporting, visit the United Way website at unitedinrecovery.org, email UIR@svuw.org for more information, or follow United in Recovery on Facebook.