‘Join the Voices For Recovery’ theme to spotlight addiction
Submitted by Renz Center
This September, people throughout the country will join together to promote the healing message of recovery by participating in the 24th annual observance of National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month.
This year’s Recovery Month theme, “Join the Voices for Recovery: It’s Worth It,” emphasizes that all American’s have access to affordable health care through the Affordable Care Act and Mental Health Parity and Addictions Equity Act that was passed in 2009.
The theme showcases how public awareness will increase access to those in need of essential substance use and mental health services, and how these legislative changes will improve the overall health and well-being of people in the United States.
Each year, the number of people seeking treatment for substance abuse and/or mental health issues has continued to escalate. According to recent data released by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, in 2010, 2.6 million people in the United States aged 12 or older needed treatment for a substance abuse disorder. In that same year, 31.3 million adults aged 18 or older received mental health services.
“Our hope is that with increased access to prevention education, treatment, and recovery support services, families, businesses, and health care providers will reach out to those in need to assist them in finding appropriate treatment options,” said Renz Center’s Executive Director Jerry Skogmo. “Not being able to access the appropriate treatment services should no longer be a barrier to achieving recovery.”
Substance recovery benefits everyone, and can positively impact society as a whole. Benefits include reduced absenteeism and job turnover, proved productivity, and reduced health care costs. Relationships also grow stronger once an individual is in recovery, and recovery positively benefits one’s overall heath, often improving other health conditions such as hypertension, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
For a free substance abuse assessment and one-on-one consultation, visit Renz Addiction Counseling Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 12, at Two American Way in Elgin. No appointment is necessary.
Renz Center provides a continuum of care dedicated to the prevention, intervention and treatment of addictive behaviors related to alcohol, drugs, and gambling. Services range from prevention programs for youth in the schools to outpatient treatment programs for adolescents and adults. Offices are located in Elgin, St. Charles, and Streamwood.
Renz Addiction Counseling Center is a nonprofit organization funded in part by the Federal Government, Central Kane County United Way, The Illinois Department of Human Services, Hanover Township, Geneva, and St. Charles 708 boards and other local community organizations. To find out more about Renz Center’s programs, call (847) 742-3545 or visit renzcenter.org.