The Transformative Power of Recovery Month: Understanding, Helping, and Celebrating

by Candace Plattor

September 24th, 2024

Every September, Recovery Month offers us a poignant reminder of the challenges, triumphs, and ongoing journey of individuals and families navigating the path of addiction recovery. It’s a time to reflect on the impact of substance use disorders, celebrate the strength of those who have chosen the path of recovery, and acknowledge the vital support of families and communities in this journey. My personal story, from a harrowing 15-year battle with opioid addiction to over 37 years of sobriety and a very successful career as an Addictions Therapist, embodies the essence of Recovery Month. My experience sheds light on the profound difference that informed and compassionate support can make in the lives of those fighting to reclaim their lives from addiction.

The Fine Line Between Helping and Enabling

One of the most crucial lessons from my personal journey is understanding the difference between “Helping” and “Enabling.” Families often find themselves at a crossroads, wanting to support their addicted loved ones but sometimes continuing to enable even when they know they’re doing it—thus contributing to the continuation of the addiction.

Helping involves actions that encourage recovery and self-sufficiency, such as supporting a loved one’s treatment plan, attending family therapy sessions, and setting healthy boundaries. On the other hand, enabling behaviours, though well-intentioned, occur when a family member does for the addict what they can—and should—be doing for themselves. This allows the addiction to continue without consequence and can include making excuses for the addicted person’s behaviour, covering up their mistakes, or providing financial support that is used to sustain their addiction.

Tips for Fostering a Supportive Environment

Educate Yourself: Understand that staying in addiction is a CHOICE, and the addict you love does have control of that decision. Family members will need to allow addicts to experience the consequences of remaining in addiction in order for the addict to make the decision to change what they are doing. Resources like family addiction therapy, support groups, and educational materials can offer valuable insights.

Encourage Treatment: Firmly encourage your loved one to seek professional help and explore treatment options together. Remember, recovery is a personal journey, and the decision to seek help must ultimately come from the addict, although the family can play a very important part in this decision.

Set Healthy Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries is essential for your well-being and their recovery. Communicate your limits with love and consistency. If you find that you have trouble doing this, know that you are not alone! Receiving some counseling for yourself from an addiction professional can give you the grounding and support you need to be successful at setting respectful boundaries that will help both you and your addict.

Practice Your Own Self-Care: Supporting someone through recovery can be emotionally taxing in many ways. Ensure that you’re taking care of your mental and physical health and seek support for yourself as needed.

Honoring the Journey of Recovery

Recovery Month also serves as a tribute to those who continue to choose sobriety every day. It’s a choice that requires immense courage, commitment, and resilience. My personal transformation from opioid addiction to a life of sobriety and service is a testament to the possibility of recovery. It’s a reminder that, with the right support and resources, individuals can overcome addiction and lead fulfilling lives. Recovery IS possible!

As we observe Recovery Month, let’s commit to differentiating between “Helping” and “Enabling,” fostering environments that support recovery, and celebrating every step taken toward sobriety. Let’s honor the individuals and families who face the challenges of addiction with courage and love, and let’s remember that recovery is a reality for the thousands of people who make that choice in their lives—every day!

Read More

Join our 10-week Too Good for Drugs and Violence program! We’ve been successfully teaching this curriculum for years, and we’re excited to share it with you!

Upcoming Sessions:

• October: 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th

Can’t make it to every session? No problem! You’re welcome to attend whenever you can. See the flyer below for more information.

We are in need of:

EMPTY over-the-counter pill bottles and small individual prize items for kids in our programs. If you have items you'd like to give, just reach out to our staff, or donate financially above.

We appreciate you!

Resources For You

Addiction can affect anyone, and it's essential to recognize the signs early, whether for yourself or someone you care about. Common indicators include a persistent desire to use substances despite negative consequences, withdrawal from social activities, and changes in mood or behavior. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, know that help is available, and recovery is possible.

Steps to Take for Yourself or a Loved One

1. Reach Out for Help: The first step is often the hardest, but seeking help is crucial. Talk to someone you trust, whether a friend, family member, or a healthcare professional. You can also reach out to helplines for immediate support.
2. Educate Yourself: Understanding addiction is vital. Many resources are available, including websites like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) www.samhsa.gov and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) www.drugabuse.gov, which provide comprehensive information on the nature of addiction and recovery options.
3. Explore Treatment Options: Depending on the situation, various treatment options are available, from outpatient therapy to inpatient rehabilitation programs. The choice depends on the severity of the addiction and personal circumstances. You can consult with healthcare providers for guidance.
4. Create a Support System: Encourage open communication with friends and family, and consider joining support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), where individuals can share experiences and support one another through the recovery journey.

Resources for Immediate Help:

• National Helpline: Call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for confidential and free information, available 24/7.
• Crisis Text Line: Text "HOME" to 741741 for immediate support through text messaging.
• Local Treatment Centers: Check community resources or your healthcare provider for information on local addiction treatment centers.

Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength. Whether for yourself or someone you love, taking the first step can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life.

We also want to highlight suicide prevention.

Suicide Prevention Month, observed every September, highlights the importance of mental health awareness and encourages open discussions about suicide. It serves as a reminder for individuals and communities to share resources, provide support, and break the stigma surrounding mental health challenges.

This year's theme focuses on the power of connection. By promoting understanding and education about warning signs and available resources, we can create a culture of compassion. Engaging in conversations and sharing personal stories fosters hope and encourages those in need to seek help, ultimately working towards reducing suicide rates.

"I became involved with Coalition RX after observing my mother-in-law, Stephanie, now serving as President; being not only involved, but living through the shared experience that many parents face.

When Stephanie had mentioned that there was an opening for Treasurer, I felt that it was timely and granted an opportunity for me to serve the greater community advocacy and support prevention in this shared journey, honoring my brother-in-law, Andrew Schroeder.

Anecdotally, the toughest issue that I see is the normalization of drug use, and the sociopsychological factors involved when in group settings amongst the young aged and impressionable cohort. If we can educate and spread awareness amongst this age group, I think the chances of reducing the use and misuse improve significantly.

I come from a family of seven, with parents of South Korean origin, who immigrated to the Midwest in 1980 and worked their tail off. Most of my life, I was a diligent student and golfer, not paying too much attention outside of these circles of competence. I’m elated to begin my work as Treasurer to expand this circle and serve the community.

I have the loveliest wife and 3 cats that we absolutely adore!"

As a small team with big goals, we need your support now more than ever. Getting involved is easier than you might think, and together, we can make a big difference! Here’s how:

1. Hit that follow button: We're on Instagram and Facebook, and we'd love to see you there! Social Media
2. Stay in the loop: Subscribe to our newsletter for all the latest updates.
3. Give what you can: Whether it’s board games, prizes, empty medicine bottles, or a donation, every bit makes a difference.
4. Join the fun: Volunteer with us! Reach out to Carey Pomykata at 402-871-5622

Let’s make a difference together!