National Recovery Month observed by West Virginia Department of Human Services

CHARLESTON, WV (WVNS) — The month of September is being recognized by The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), Office of Drug Control Policy (ODCP), and other partnerships nationwide as National Recovery Month.

According to a press release from West Virginia Department of Human Services, this month promotes proven treatment and recovery practices, the strong recovery community, and the support and dedication of service providers and communities who help with recovery and every aspect of it.

The press release continues saying, Governor Jim Justice also proclaimed the month of September as West Virginia Recovery Month and encourages residents to support recovery by sharing resources to those in recovery, such as the 1-844-HELP4WV helpline. ODCP and the Governor’s Council on Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment have several programs across the state that help people and families with recovery.

“Recovery Month is an important time for us to celebrate the strength and resilience of West Virginians who are on the path to recovery. We are committed to increasing access to life-saving resources, enhancing community support, and reducing the stigma associated with substance use disorders. Recovery is possible, and every step forward is a victory,” said Dr. Stephen Loyd, DoHS Office of Drug Control Policy Director.

On September 19, 2024 through September 21, 2024, at the Embassy Suites by Hilton in Charleston, the Appalachian Addiction and Prescription Drug Abuse Conference will take place. This conference will give health care providers a better understanding of mental health, well-being, and substance use disorders. It will also include co-morbidities and treatment recommendations.

Christina Mullins, DoHS’s Deputy Secretary of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders will also be giving a presentation at the conference, which will focus on the current mental state and substance use disorder situation in West Virginia. The discussion will also include updates on addiction and behavioral health statistics, talk about referral sources for residents of West Virginia, and policy changes that could affect patient care.

“Recovery Month provides an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to building a healthier West Virginia. It’s a time to reflect on the progress we’ve made, to learn from the stories of those who have found hope and healing, and to continue advancing policies that improve access to care and support for those affected by substance use disorders,” said Mullins.

The Mountain State will also participate in “Save a Life Day,” also known as Free Naloxone Day on September 26, 2024. This day is the largest day for naloxone distribution east of the Mississippi River.

Since 2020, DoHS’s ODCP and the Bureau for Behavioral Health have provided naloxone for West Virginia’s Save a Life Day and its events with it. This day helps support the resources to save lives from opioid overdoses and to educate and empower the communities.

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