CHAMBERSBURG – The Franklin County Commissioners have proclaimed September as National Recovery Month. In doing so, the commissioners are encouraging residents to celebrate the strength and resiliency of individuals on their journey to recovery while also highlighting the services available to those who are struggling with substance use disorders.
Now in its 35th year, National Recovery Month underscores that recovery is a multi-faceted process that involves overcoming challenges related to substance use disorders and mental health conditions. The 2024 theme, “Recovery, Hope and Healing,” emphasizes the vital role foundational elements such as physical, emotional and mental health, a safe and stable home environment, a sense of purpose and social support play in helping individuals rebuild their lives.
Substance use disorders affect every community in the U.S. According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more than 65 million Americans consider themselves to be in recovery from substance use and/or mental health issues. Based on recent estimates from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, approximately 13,345 Franklin County residents are estimated to be in recovery from a substance use disorder.
“We know that recovery is a lifelong journey and one that requires a comprehensive, collective effort of care, support and encouragement from the entire community,” said Franklin County Commissioner Chairman Dean Horst. “We support and recognize those in long-term recovery, and we offer our gratitude to those who help these individuals along the way while helping to eliminate the stigma associated with substance use and mental health disorders.”
National Recovery Month also draws attention to the treatment services available to Franklin County residents in their own communities. Those services, available through Franklin/Fulton Drug and Alcohol, can assist those affected by mental health and substance use disorders in living healthy lifestyles and achieving their full potential.
For more information on available services, contact Franklin/Fulton Drug and Alcohol Program at 717-263-1256 or ffda@franklincountypa.gov. Information is also available by visiting the Franklin/Fulton Drug and Alcohol page at www.franklincountypa.gov. Individuals seeking immediate help for themselves or for someone they know should call PA Get Help Now at 1-800-662-4357.
Franklin/Fulton Drug and Alcohol and other community partners are highlighting National Recovery Month and their efforts to promote a unified response to substance use through a variety of community events and activities in September.
Community members came together Aug. 31 in Chambersburg to commemorate Overdose Awareness Day with a candlelight vigil and again on Sept. 7 at the Recovery Spectacular in Waynesboro. The Home Run Derby to Fight Drug Addiction was held Sept. 14 at Fayetteville’s Norlo Park. And the 4th Annual Sober September will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Sept. 28 at Cowans Gap State Park, Fort Loudon.
For more information on these and other local National Recovery Month events, people may contact Franklin/Fulton Drug and Alcohol.
