What is Recovery Month?
RECOVERY MONTH is a national observance held every September since 1989 to promote and support new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, the emergence of a strong and proud recovery community, and the dedication of service providers and community members across the nation who make recovery in all its forms possible.
What is Suicide Prevention Month?
SUICIDE PREVENTION MONTH is a national observance held every September to raise awareness, foster connection, and share life-saving resources. It is a time to build awareness and essential skills to support those at risk. It honors the resilience of individuals and families, highlights evidence-based support systems, and celebrates the power of community care. With early intervention, accessible mental health services, and compassionate care, recovery and healing are possible, showing that hope is always within reach.
How Can You Participate This Month?
- Wear the Colors of Hope: Show your support by wearing Purple (the official color of substance use recovery) and Teal and Purple (the official colors of suicide prevention awareness).
- Normalize the Conversation: Foster joy, hope, and open dialogue around mental health, reminding our community that recovery is not only possible, but probable when people seek support.
- Practice Stigma-Free Communication: Build essential support skills by choosing compassionate, non-judgmental language that reduces stigma and helps those at risk feel safe reaching out.
- Show Up & Connect: Attend local events, explore available community resources, and stay updated by following the Anne Arundel County Department of Health on Facebook and Instagram (@AAHealth).
- Save a Life: Program 988 (the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) directly into your phone contacts so help is always one tap away.
Weekly Themes
Week 1: No Stigma, No Shame
Having a mental health challenge, struggling with substance use, or thinking about suicide doesn't make someone weak or bad. Combat stigma and shame by talking openly and treating everyone with kindness. Asking for help is a brave step, not something to hide. Ways you can take steps to break down stigma are:
- Learn the facts about suicide and substance use
- Listen to a podcast, or read a book or article about someone’s real-life experience
- Have honest conversations with friends and family about what you learn
Week 2: Personal Care
Taking care of your mental and physical health isn't selfish; it's essential for your overall well-being. Giving yourself time to rest, recharge, and reset helps build resilience and reduce daily stress. Prioritizing your needs is a vital step toward a healthier, happier you. Ways you can take steps to practice personal care are:
- Sit in the morning
- Name one thing that went well for you this morning to start your day with gratitude
- Save the “988 Crisis Lifeline” into your phone contacts so it is always readily available for you or a friend
Week 3: Better Together
No one has to navigate life's challenges alone, and strong connections can be a powerful source of healing and strength. Reaching out, sharing a moment or simply letting someone know you care creates a network of support for both you and the people in your life. We are stronger, healthier and happier when we lean on each other. Ways you can take steps to stay connected are:
- Celebrate the month by doing your favorite activity with your favorite person
- Text a family member an old, funny photo to make them smile
- Write down the name and number of one person you know you can call on a bad day
Week 4: Grounded in Connection
Disconnecting from daily distractions and reconnecting with the world around you can help clear your mind and restore balance. Taking time to appreciate nature, show gratitude to others and tune into the present moment grounds us and strengthens our bond with the community. Ways you can take steps to stay grounded in connection are:
- Take a walk at a local park
- Name three ordinary things around you that you value
- Turn off all phone notifications at 8 p.m.
Week 5: The Final Wrap
Reflecting on how far you've come is just as important as taking the steps to get there. Protecting your energy, honoring your resilience and celebrating your growth helps lock in the positive habits you've built. As this journey comes to a close, remember that taking care of yourself and supporting others is an ongoing practice. Ways you can take steps to wrap up and carry this momentum forward are:
- Unfollow 5 social accounts that drain your energy
- Remember a tough time you beat
- Finish this sentence in your notes app: “I am proud of myself for…”
September Activity Calendar
Show Us Your Sign!
Send a picture of what gives you hope. Show us your sign!
Events
August 31:
- International Overdose Awareness Day
Week 1 (Aug 30 – Sept 5):
- Sept 1: First Day of Suicide Prevention Month and Recovery Month
Week 2 (Sept 6 – Sept 12):
- Sept 6–12: Suicide Prevention Week
- Sept 8: 988 Day
- Sept 10: World Suicide Prevention Day
- Sept 12: Out of Darkness Walk
https://afspwalks.donordrive.com/Annapolis
https://afspwalks.donordrive.com/teams/395205
Week 3 (Sept 13 – Sept 19):
- (No events listed)
Week 4 (Sept 20 – Sept 26):
- Sept 20: National Addiction Professionals Day
- Sept 23: FireSide Chat
Week 5 (Sept 27 – Oct 3):
- Sept 29: Recovery Advocacy Day
- Sept 29: Virtual CALM Training - Registration Link
- Sept 30: International Recovery Day