National Recovery Month

National Recovery Month is observed throughout September as a time to celebrate the courage, strength, and progress of people recovering from mental health conditions and substance use disorders. It recognizes that recovery is possible and can take many forms, including treatment, peer support, counseling, healthier choices, and the ongoing encouragement of loved ones and communities.

The observance also helps raise awareness, reduce stigma, and remind people that seeking help is a meaningful step—not a sign of weakness. Throughout the month, communities and organizations highlight recovery stories, share valuable resources, and promote compassion and support for everyone on the path toward greater well-being.

National Recovery Month is observed throughout September to recognize the gains made by people recovering from mental health conditions and substance use disorders. The observance was established in 1989 by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Center for Substance Abuse Treatment as “Treatment Works! Month.” Its original purpose was to educate the public about the effectiveness of addiction treatment and to encourage people affected by substance use disorders to seek help.

As public understanding of recovery expanded, the observance changed in 1998 to “National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month.” The revised name emphasized that recovery is an ongoing process rather than a single episode of treatment. It also highlighted the contributions of individuals in recovery, their families, health professionals, and community organizations. In 2011, the name was shortened to National Recovery Month, reflecting a broader focus that included mental health recovery as well as recovery from substance use disorders.

Over time, National Recovery Month developed into a nationwide campaign involving educational programs, public forums, community celebrations, peer-support activities, and awareness initiatives. Its themes have commonly stressed that recovery is real, that treatment and support can work, and that people can build healthy, productive lives after facing addiction or mental health challenges. The observance has also helped promote recovery-oriented care, which places greater emphasis on personal goals, dignity, self-determination, and long-term community support.

Culturally, National Recovery Month has contributed to changing conversations about addiction and mental illness. By sharing recovery stories and recognizing accomplishments, it challenges shame and the belief that these conditions define a person’s identity or future. Its September observance gives communities an annual opportunity to honor people in recovery, remember those lost to addiction or related harms, support families and caregivers, and encourage broader access to prevention, treatment, and recovery services.