Good news. Recovery from substance-use disorders is a reality for millions. Recovery heals families. It provides good health, good citizenship, and mental well-being. It offers hope to individuals and families living in quiet desperation due to alcohol and other drug addiction. Recovery support services provide reason and resources to reduce recidivism. Investment in the pursuit and maintenance of long-term recovery pays big recovery dividends.
In Denver in May, many public gatherings celebrated the gifts of recovery. During these events, the power of story was demonstrated by many, including notables Ed Begley Jr., Pat O’Brien and Christopher Kennedy Lawford. National and local celebrations will again take place in September during National Recovery Month. A major Unity gathering will take place Oct. 4 on the Mall in Washington, D.C.
Over the past decades, a face has been given to those in recovery from addiction to alcohol and other drugs. They have learned: By our silence, we let others define us. We endeavor to change stigmatizing words and labels to describe those with mental health issues, including addicts and alcoholics with substance use disorders. What does dirty or clean have to do with drug use or abstinence? What does substance abuse mean? Changing language can overcome the stereotypes, prejudice and lack of empathy that keep people from getting the help they need.
Through organizations like Faces and Voices of Recovery, Young People in Recovery, and Advocates for Recovery-Colorado, those in recovery have also learned that stigma and discrimination can be diminished through the impact and positive power of stories of recovery.
The Mental Health and Addiction Parity Act and Affordable Care Act require and provide services for substance-use disorders. A 100-year- old lady was asked about the major benefit of reaching 100. She replied, “no peer pressure.” That is not case for young people. Being widely recognized is the value and economic benefit of those in recovery as peer-to-peer providers of peer-recovery services. Who better to carry the positive message?
Consider this statement by Carl Sagan: “Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence.” There are 23.5 million people — young and old — in recovery from addiction. Recovery is a reality and there is extraordinary evidence. However, We need to stand up, stand out, speak out and be proud about it.
For much too long, too many in recovery have sought the comfort and cocoon of anonymity. It would be great to let everyone see the butterflies. There are many and they are beautiful.
Merlyn Karst lives in Denver.
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