Recovery Awareness
Recovery awareness is gaining knowledge about what addiction is and how it impacts our communities, friends, and family members. Learning about this disease helps us better understand what people experiencing addiction are going through and how we can respond with compassion and support. Recovery awareness also means recognizing that recovery is a journey, not a destination. The path to recovery can look different for everyone, and there is no single approach that works for every person. The Division of Behavioral Health supports several different pathways such as different levels of treatment services, peer support, and recovery housing. 

The Importance of Recovery Awareness

Without awareness, when someone we know is struggling, we may feel alone and unsure of what to do. When we learn more, we are better able to recognize what is happening, support the people in our lives, and know where to turn for help if it happens to be us. Awareness of recovery increases understanding and helps us to meet people where they are. When we understand recovery as a journey, we can recognize that it may include both progress and setbacks, and that everyone’s journey will look different. 

Available resources and support

https://letsbeclearsd.com/ is a great resource to find support for recovery. There is information about substance use, prevention, treatment, and recovery support services. If you're not sure where to start, you can call 988 and ask to talk to a Care Coordinator, they can help you find resources and services that may be a good fit for you or someone you care about. 

Ways to celebrate or get involved

Recovery starts with understanding, compassion, and connection. Stay informed, ask questions, listen without judgment, and celebrate the small wins. Most importantly, remember that every person is more than their struggle.