This September, for the second year in a row, the Division of Behavioral Health’s Substance Use Disorder Services Program has published a booklet titled “Who’s Who, Idaho Recovery Month 2023.”

The booklet features stories about some of the incredible Idahoans who work in, work with, or are in the substance use disorder recovery community, and I’d encourage you to read about the inspiring people who are featured.  At a time when deaths from addiction are at an all-time high, they’re some of Idaho’s heroes. Many of these heroes are in long-term recovery themselves, offering hope and help to those who are still struggling.

Idaho has a strong and proud recovery community made up of a diversity of programs and people at DHW, and thousands of everyday Idahoans who have committed to recovery, whether as professionals, advocates, recovery champions, or those working to overcome addiction.

September—National Recovery Month—is a time when we go out of our way to celebrate those in recovery from the disease of addiction, as well as the people and organizations who support those in recovery. Recovery Month is a time to unify and empower people, families, friends, and peers throughout Idaho’s communities. It’s also the perfect time to work together to reduce the stigma that surrounds substance use disorders and engage in alcohol and drug-free activities together.

It’s a privilege to bring awareness to recovery from addiction and to further recognize the hard-working people who are invested in helping those afflicted by the disease of addiction. I’m honored to work with those in Idaho’s recovery community as they strive to unify and empower those in treatment and recovery while reducing the stigma surrounding substance use.

Throughout the month of September and beyond, we’re encouraging communities to come together to show support for those in recovery, remember people we’ve lost, and recognize that we’re all in this together.

In honor of Recovery Month, Monday, Sept. 25, will be a day when wearing or displaying purple will be a way to recognize the recovery community. Purple can be worn, displayed, or even lit up as a sign of solidarity for recovery.

For more information about Substance Use Disorder: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/services-programs/behavioral-health/about-substance-use-disorder

I hope you have a safe and healthy weekend! 

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.