National Recovery Month is held every September to promote and support addiction treatment and recovery practices.
By: Betty Lee
“They were there when I needed them.” That is the face behind addiction.
“They helped me when no one else was there.” That is the face behind addiction.
“They would do anything for anyone.” That is the face behind addiction.
“They have the biggest heart.” That is the face behind addiction.
The sad truth is that addiction steals some of the best souls. Does addiction define that person? Does it wrong all the rights they have done in their lives? It does not, but in the world we live in today it takes that one “nasty” word and turns it into what that person’s world revolved around.
They fail to mention the days they’ve fought the battle, the demons they face daily to stay clean, the struggle to do right by their mothers, fathers, spouses, children, and themselves.
So, the faces behind addiction are the ones who fight this battle hard, striving daily to be a better child, parent, partner, and friend, no matter what they are facing physically, mentally, or emotionally. To everyone else, they could be doing great- planning a healthy, happy, beautiful life ahead. This epidemic takes so many who those who love them dearly. Some of the most loving, kindhearted people you will encounter are those fighting addiction.
On average, more than 250 people die daily from an overdose with 93,331 overdose deaths in 2020 according to the CDC.
Many people don’t fully understand something until it happens to them. Dealing with your own or a loved one’s addiction is all-consuming. Not everyone will understand, but what is asked for is less judgment, shaming, and stigma. For those that are not affected with addiction in their lives, be thankful you don’t have to understand.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help, rely on the ones who love you and support you. Reach out and take the steps to recovery, you can regain your life and make it great again. Call 1-800-662-HELP to reach the SAMHSA’s National Helpline, a free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance abuse disorders.