Recovery Month

Proclamation
By the Governor of Alabama

WHEREAS, mental illnesses and substance use disorders directly affect the lives of millions of Alabamians, as well as their families, friends, employers and communities; and

WHEREAS, about half of individuals with severe mental illnesses also have a substance use disorder, a condition that is known as having a co-occurring disorder; and

WHEREAS, by 2020, mental illnesses and substance use disorders will surpass all physical diseases as a major cause of disability worldwide; and

WHEREAS, it is important to educate our communities, policymakers, friends and family members, health care providers and businesses that mental illnesses, substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders are treatable and that people should seek assistance for these conditions with the same urgency as they would any other health condition; and

WHEREAS, this year marks the 26th anniversary of National Recovery Month, which seeks to promote the societal benefits of prevention, treatment and recovery from mental illnesses and substance use disorders. The observance also celebrates people in recovery, lauds the contributions of treatment and service providers, and promotes the message that recovery in all its forms is possible; and

WHEREAS, Recovery Month spreads the positive message that behavioral health is essential to overall health, prevention works, treatment is effective, and people can and do recover; and

WHEREAS, this year’s Recovery Month theme, “Join the Voices for Recovery: Visible, Vocal, Valuable!” emphasizes the value of peer support in educating, mentoring, and helping others; and

WHEREAS, September has been designated by the Alabama Department of Mental Health as Recovery Month, with groups throughout the state holding community celebrations to celebrate individuals in recovery and the professionals who have helped them reclaim their lives; and

WHEREAS, the benefits of preventing and overcoming mental illnesses and/or substance use disorders are significant and valuable to individuals, families and communities. Supportive individuals, systems, and communities are catalysts of societal change. People in recovery can achieve healthy lifestyles, both emotionally and physically, and contribute in positive ways to their communities:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim September 2015, as

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 23rd day of September 2015.

Robert Bentley
Governor