In the recovery community, people often talk about their experiences in terms of following a path. This metaphor serves as a valuable reminder that establishing a drug-free lifestyle is a long-term process that requires daily effort. In some cases, this can include returning to a treatment program for additional care. Don�t give up hope. Every step you take, no matter how small it may seem in the moment, is a success worth celebrating.
Information is an essential tool in the effort to end opioid addiction. You need to be able to identify the behaviors or circumstances that may indicate a relative or friend has been abusing opioids. To learn more, visit the Mayo Clinic website: http://ow.ly/5BTL102nsSU
MAYOCLINIC.ORG
Is someone you love using opioids illegally or not as prescribed?
As we join together to celebrate National Recovery Month, this is an ideal opportunity to dismiss a far-too-common myth about medication-assisted treatment. MAT does not have a negative effect on the recovery process. Here's the truth: MAT has been closely studied for decades. Research shows it is effective and safe. Learn more here: http://ow.ly/TA5X102mhce
Any opioid use can lead to opioid abuse and the development of an addiction. Even if you're using a prescription drug for a legitimate medical purpose, you must do your best to remain vigilant in making sure there isn�t a change in your behavior. If you have concerns about your opioid use, please know this: The path to a healthier future begins with asking for help.
Today is a great day to expand your knowledge of opioid use disorder. Let's start with this essential fact: Addiction is a disease. It is not proof of flawed character or personal weakness. Those who struggle with opioid addiction should not be chastised or vilified. They deserve compassion, support, and effective treatment. Let's work together to end stigma and connect people in crisis with the help they need. http://ow.ly/P8QX102mQYI
HEALTHLINE.COM
It’s Time to Erase the Stigma of Opioid Addiction
Opioid addiction is unfortunately common throughout the United States. In observance of National Recovery Month, let's take a vow to eradicate stigma and ensure that all whose lives are affected by opioid use disorder get the respect and support they deserve.
Here's today's truth bomb: If you have been working to manage the symptoms of a mental health disorder, we want to be sure you realize that mental illness is not a personal shortcoming or a sign of weakness. Each and every one of us is worthy of being treated with dignity and compassion. This includes you! Even in times of doubt or crisis, don't lose sight of your many amazing talents, strengths, and capabilities. We see you, we celebrate you, and we will always be here for you!
Did you get your flu shot yet? Flu season is already underway, but it’s not too late to get this year’s vaccine. The CDC recommends the flu shot for everyone age 6 months or older. This year, with the COVID-19 pandemic still impacting communities across the nation, it’s especially important to do all we can to keep ourselves healthy. Give yourself and your loved ones the gift of increased safety and greater peace of mind — get your flu shot today!
The continuing impact of the COVID-19 crisis has forced us all to make many changes in our lives. We've even needed to reassess how, where, and when we vote. For example, many states have reported record numbers of early voting, including citizens who voted by mail. However, millions of Americans throughout the country will still be voting in person on Election Day. If you intend to vote in person on November 3, it's important to take a few basic but essential safety precautions. This article includes valuable guidance to ensure that you stay safe when you vote: http://ow.ly/4f9T102r1Nf
Wishing you a safe and happy Halloween!
Halloween is an opportunity for families to celebrate together. But if you've been working on your recovery, ghosts and goblins aren't the most frightening part of Halloween. You know that celebratory gatherings can be triggers, but you don't want to deny yourself the opportunity to be with those you care about. Thankfully, you don't have to jeopardize your recovery to have a happy Halloween. If you follow a few essential pieces of advice, you can have a ghoulishly good time without using substances. http://ow.ly/mLd9102qEU2
NAMI.ORG
You Can Be Scary This Halloween Without Perpetuating Stigma | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness
If a loved one was abusing opioids or other drugs, do you think you would identify the signs and respond appropriately? To support others, it's vital to get the facts. Here's an excellent place to start: http://ow.ly/CfZy50C5Ar6
DRUGABUSE.GOV
How to Find Help | National Institute on Drug Abuse
The actions you took in the past led you to this moment in your life. But reaching your darkest point doesn't mean you'll never find happiness again. Starting now, you get to decide which direction you're going to go from here.
During the holidays, you were focused on giving, but as you close the chapter on another year, it's an ideal time to self-reflect. Stop for a minute and repeat positive affirmations that remind you to offer yourself the same love and compassion as you do others.
It's no secret that 2020 was a difficult year, especially for those who are battling a mental health concern or substance use disorder. Sadly, the fear of disdain made many people hesitate to seek professional help. We're committed to ending the stigma in 2021.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s influential efforts for the civil rights movement in America impacted the nation in ways we still see today. Dr. King believed in using nonviolence to pursue racial equality for Black individuals in the U.S. Today, we commemorate Dr. King's legacy and his vision for an equitable future.
In the past few weeks, updates on the development of coronavirus vaccines have been sources of widespread relief. This is clearly fantastic news. However, we cannot lose sight of the fact that it is still flu season. Influenza continues to threaten the health of people in communities throughout the nation. To be sure you're properly protecting yourself and those you care about, we encourage you to read this vital information about the flu from the CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/keyfacts.htm
From our team to you, have a splendid new year! The uncertainty we faced in 2020 was often overwhelming, but today is an opportunity to start again. This is an ideal time to reflect on all that you're grateful for and develop healthy goals for the months ahead.
If you're taking part in any New Year's celebrations tonight, please be safe and remember to not get behind the wheel if you're impaired. To acknowledge National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, we ask that you have transportation arranged ahead of time, whether you take the bus, choose a designated driver, or order a rideshare. Let's ring in the new year responsibly! http://ow.ly/G5g8102vZps