To say that 2020 has been a crazy year would be the understatement of a lifetime! Like the rest of the globe, California has been affected by world events like no other. However, it has given us the opportunity to find the strength and persistence we didn’t even know we had. Since 1989, September has been known as National Recovery Month, and this year, it serves as a beacon.[1] It is reminding us to stay positive, to look to our community for support, and remember that there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.
What is National Recovery Month?
Sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), September is a special period, known as Recovery Month. It has given us the opportunity to increase awareness and an understanding of mental and substance abuse disorders. It also gives us the chance to commemorate all of those who have or are seeking treatment.[1]
Celebrating its 30th year, National Recovery Month has grown significantly from when it first began.
- Founded in 1989, Recovery Month was known as Treatment Works! and applauded individuals working in the substance use treatment field.
- In 1998, Treatment Works! grew into National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month and began celebrating those in recovery.
- In 2011, the name changed once again to what we know it as now, National Recovery Month, and has expanded to include mental illness.
This has allowed others from across the country to join in on raising awareness, sharing personal stories of recovery, and reaching out to others who are in need of a helping hand.[1]
Looking back on 2020
For many, if not all, 2020 has turned out a little differently than planned. Workdays have been adjusted, social lives altered, political issues raised, and human rights have been challenged. So let’s break down some of the biggest events of 2020 so far[2]:
- January 7th – The World Health Organization is made aware of COVID-19 and enters the US January 20th
- January 16th – The impeachment for President Donald Trump begins
- January 26th – Breaking the heart of millions, Kobe and Gigi Bryant pass away due to a helicopter crash
- March 10th – Italy becomes the first Country to go on lockdown due to COVID-19 with Trump announcing it a national emergency on March 13th
- May 25th – George Floyd was arrested and soon after died while in custody, sparking the beginning of the 2020 riots and protests[3]
Looking Forward to Brighter Times
It has been a stressful year, to say the least! But that doesn’t mean you have to lose the sobriety you’ve worked so hard to achieve. If you find yourself struggling with your inner thoughts and battling urges that won’t seem to let up, remember these great tools to cope with stress during sobriety[4]:
- Take deep breaths
- Think of things you’re grateful for
- Get close to nature, such as going on a walk or hiking
- Talk to someone you trust about how you’re feeling
- Celebrate everything you’ve achieved so far
The road to sobriety may seem overwhelming at times and world events can increase your stress and make it harder to stay sober. It’s important to remember you are never alone and there are millions of people rooting for your success!
Ocean Hills Recovery is Here to Help, During National Recovery Month, and Always
We understand that 2020 has been a challenging year and some months may be harder to stay sober than others. At Ocean Hills Recovery, we are ready at a moment’s notice to provide the support and tools you need to stay strong through any event. We offer a multitude of programs to ensure your needs are met and will develop a personalized treatment program to give you the absolute best chances for success.
To hear more about the programs we offer, such as Alcohol Treatment, Drug Treatment, Dual Diagnosis, and 12- Step Treatment, and to receive a free consultation, please contact us. Reaching out for help is a great first step to recovery, and together, we’ll achieve so much more!
Sources:
[1] https://www.recoverymonth.gov/about-recovery-month
[2] https://www.insider.com/shocking-things-that-have-happened-this-year-100-days-2020-4#april-9-the-state-of-new-york-alone-has-the-highest-number-of-coronavirus-cases-than-any-country-in-the-world-26
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Floyd_protests
[4] https://www.workithealth.com/blog/manage-stress-in-sobriety/
About the author:
Greg opened his home and heart to alcoholics and addicts in 2003. He is a Certified Addictions Treatment Counselor (CATCI). Starting in 2009 Greg has fostered the growth of Ocean Hills Recovery into one of the most respected and effective treatment centers in the area and has been working with people with addictions since March of 2001. Greg believes in a holistic approach to recovery. His focus is on drug alcohol addiction treatment with a combination of 12 Step work, therapy and counseling, and the rejuvenation of the body through healthful eating and exercise. He has designed his program to foster a family-like atmosphere and believes that people in recovery are just beginning their lives. He encourages the people he works with to learn to enjoy life in sobriety. Greg is married to Nicole; they have two adorable sons together and an energetic yellow Labrador Retriever.
