September is a special time of year for an important reason: it’s National Recovery Month. This monthlong event, which launched in 1989, is all about celebrating the millions of people who have found their path to recovery from substance use and mental health disorders. It’s a time to raise awareness, offer support and shine a light on the fact that recovery is not only possible, but also a journey of hope and healing.

Addiction doesn’t just affect one person. It impacts entire families, friend groups and communities. That’s why talking openly about it is so important. Recovery Month is a public health focus that helps reduce the stigma often tied to addiction. The words we use matter, and by celebrating recovery, we show that it’s a real and achievable goal for everyone, no matter their background. Just as we celebrate a person’s journey to better physical health, like managing diabetes or high blood pressure, we celebrate the amazing gains made by those on the path to recovery. It’s a powerful way to show that a full and meaningful life is within reach. 

What is recovery?

Before we dive into how we can support recovery, let’s get on the same page about what it means. When we talk about recovery, we’re not just talking about being free from a substance. Recovery is a journey of self-improvement and growth, where you find a healthier way to live your life. It’s about building a better future and taking back control from a substance that may have had a tight grip on you. It’s an ongoing process of change through which people improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives and strive to reach their full potential. 

This leads us to a crucial term: substance use disorder (SUD). You may hear the word “addiction” used a lot, and while it’s a common term, SUD is the clinical term used by health care professionals. Think of it as a medical condition where a person’s use of a substance, like alcohol, opioids or stimulants, leads to serious challenges. It’s not a moral failing or a sign of weakness. It’s a complex brain disease that changes how a person thinks, feels and acts, making it incredibly hard to stop using the substance, even when they want to. 

The disorder is diagnosed when a person’s use of alcohol or another substance leads to problems with their health, relationships or responsibilities. The good news is, just like other medical conditions, SUD can be treatable. A big part of that treatment can be medication management. 

Medication management: A powerful tool for recovery

What exactly is medication management? It’s a highly effective, evidence-based approach that combines FDA-approved medications with other support services. This is often referred to as medication-assisted treatment (MAT) or, more recently, medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), as it’s been a game-changer for opioid recovery. It’s not about swapping one drug for another. It’s about using science to help the brain heal. 

Medication management is important for so many reasons, including:

• Managing withdrawal symptoms

When a person stops using a substance they’ve become dependent on, the body can react with uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous symptoms. Medications can make this process, known as detoxification, much safer and more comfortable. 

For example, some medications can help calm the nervous system and ease the physical pain and distress of withdrawal, making it possible for a person to begin their recovery journey without feeling overwhelmed. 

• Addressing the addiction itself

Certain medications can help reduce cravings and block the effects of the substance, making it easier to stay on the path of recovery. For example, medications like naltrexone and buprenorphine work by reducing the powerful cravings that can lead to using a substance again. They help balance the brain’s chemistry, which was altered by the substance. 

• Helping to prevent relapse 

Relapse can be a common part of the recovery journey, but medication management can significantly reduce the risk. By reducing cravings and helping a person feel more stable, medications offer a layer of protection as they work on the other aspects of their recovery journey, like building healthy coping skills and addressing the reasons they started using in the first place. 

• Tackling the underlying issues 

Many people with SUD also struggle with other mental health conditions, like anxiety, depression or PTSD. Medications can be used to treat these co-occurring disorders, making it easier for a person to focus on their recovery from substance use. This integrated approach is crucial because it treats the whole person, not just one symptom. It’s like fixing the car’s engine while also checking the tires and oil. Everything needs to be in good shape for the car to run smoothly. 

It’s essential to remember that medication management isn’t a fix-all. It’s a powerful tool, but it works best when it’s combined with counseling and a strong support system. This is because recovery isn’t just about managing the physical side of addiction. It’s also about addressing the emotional, psychological and social factors that contribute to it. 

The importance of seeking treatment

The statistics can be pretty staggering, but they also highlight the significant need for accessible and compassionate care. In 2022, over 50 million people had a need for substance use disorder treatment; however, only about 13 million people received treatment. That’s a notable gap. These numbers tell us two things. First, a lot of people are struggling, but second, we have a tremendous opportunity to help them. 

Acknowledging the challenges of high-risk substance use is crucial. We’ve seen increases in drug overdose deaths and alcohol-related deaths in recent years, which makes the need for effective treatment more urgent than ever. Seeking treatment is a brave and courageous act. It’s a commitment to yourself and to a better life. You wouldn’t tell someone with diabetes to just “tough it out” and stop needing insulin. You would get them the medical help they need. The same goes for someone with SUD. Just as we use scientific advancements to fight other diseases, embracing them for SUD is incredibly important 

It’s also important to remember that recovery is a marathon, not a sprint. There will be good days and bad days. The journey is not always in a straight line, and that’s OK. What matters is the direction you’re heading in. Having a supportive team by your side can make all the difference. 

ReKlame Health can help you find your way

We understand how difficult it can be to find balance and feel like you’re in charge of your life. We are a team of modern, diverse and compassionate clinicians who are dedicated to helping members take back control. Our care is tailored to your needs and built on proven, evidence-based approaches. 

We believe that seeking help should be as easy as possible. That’s why we make it a priority to get you in for an initial consultation within 48 hours of your first call or referral. Our approach includes both medication management and integrated care coordination with your other health care providers to ensure you receive the most effective and personalized treatment. 

Appointments are available within 48 hours. You’ve got this. Start by booking your first session today.