Have you recently started recovering from a serious addiction or know someone who has? Do you feel like you're alone while going through a rough time? Stay on track with people in your community who are dealing with similar concerns and struggles, or learn more about what you can do to improve your community's support for those recovering.

Do not feel like you are alone:

• Approximately 23.6 million people aged 12 or older in 2006 needed treatment for an illicit drug or alcohol use problem, meaning they had used an illicit drug at least once during the past month.
• Among youth aged 12 to 17, an estimated 8 percent were classified with substance dependence or abuse.
• An estimated 8.3 percent of Americans aged 12 or older (20.4 million) had been illicit drug users, meaning that during the month prior their interviews, they had used illicit drugs.

For the past several years the National Alcohol & Drug Addiction Recovery Month organization has been recognizing people in recovery as well as their many supporters. Recovery is a community effort from which everyone benefits. Take action with these community improvement tips:

• Acknowledge the societal and personal costs of untreated substance abuse disorders to institutions and individuals versus the return on investment possible with treatment and recovery.
• Educate the public and community leaders that substance use disorders pose a treatable health problem.
• Share knowledge about the effectiveness of treatment for substance abuse disorders. People who successfully complete treatment programs return to their families and become productive workers and members of society.

Click on each state to find upcoming local events in the New York and New Jersey areas. Read more about National Alcohol & Drug Addiction Recovery and continue staying healthy this season!

Check out My Health Zone for your complete guide to staying healthy and being well. Healthfirst is also here to help. Our mental health and substance abuse Care Management Programs provide a confidential and personalized assessment of your needs and goals. Call today to learn more: (888) 394-4327.

Sources: http://www.recoverymonth.gov; http://www.pfr.samhsa.gov