Campaign reminds public how stress can affect addiction recovery

During September, people throughout the country are helping to promote the healing message of recovery by participating in the 22nd annual observance of National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month.

This year's theme, "Join the Voices for Recovery: Now More Than Ever," emphasizes the increase of stress in our society - specifically how stress and other external circumstances can contribute to the onset and relapse of substance use disorders, and how particular groups are more greatly affected, including:

• Public safety officials, including the military, police, and fire personnel, who have careers in which they frequently put their lives at risk for the safety of others.

• People in the work force who can feel tremendously stressed, especially during rough economic times. Such stress puts people who are in recovery from substance use disorders at risk for relapse, while causing others to begin to use alcohol and/or to relieve stress.

• Older adults who find retirement stressful due to the sudden change of pace, financial worries, or health concerns.

• Families who endure personal stress that can lead to increased use of alcohol and/or drugs.

Many people who misuse alcohol and/or drugs can and do recover.

"Stress may negatively influence treatment effectiveness and can contribute to relapse even for individuals and families in long-term recovery," said Executive Director Jerry Skogmo, Renz Addiction Counseling Center. "The key to reducing stress often is just letting someone know when you are in trouble and asking for assistance."

A substance-use disorder, like many chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, is a disease that can affect anyone, Skogmo said.

For a free substance abuse assessment and one-on-one consultation, visit Renz Addiction Counseling Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 21 at 2 American Way in Elgin or 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 22 at 309 Walnut St. in St. Charles. No appointment is necessary.

Renz Addiction Counseling Center is a nonprofit organization funded in part by the federal government, local United Ways, Illinois Department of Human Services, Hanover Township, Schaumburg 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.