National Recovery Month

WHEREAS, according to the 2009 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 4.3 million people age 12 or older received treatment for substance use disorders; and 30.2 million adults age 18 or older received services for mental health problems; and

WHEREAS, substance use and mental disorders are treatable, and should be handled with the same urgency as any other health condition; and

WHEREAS, Recovery Month’s 22nd National Campaign spreads the message that behavioral health is an essential part of one’s overall wellness; that prevention works; treatment is effective and people can and do recover from substance use and mental disorders; and

WHEREAS, all people posses the fundamental and inherent right to be accepted and treated with respect, human dignity and worth; and

WHEREAS, it is important to recognize the accomplishments of those who have achieved long-term recovery, and share with others how recovery positively benefits society as a whole; and

WHEREAS, for 22 years, Recovery Month has worked to improve the lives of those suffering from substance use and mental disorders by raising awareness and educating communities about available treatment and recovery resources:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim September 2011, as

National Recovery Month

in the State of Alabama.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 30th day of August 2011.

                        

Governor Robert Bentley