National Recovery Month is a powerful opportunity to raise awareness, support individuals on their recovery journey, and strengthen communities—especially right here in Massachusetts.
Held every September, this national observance honors the millions of people making progress through treatment for substance use and mental health conditions. It also recognizes the families, professionals, and communities that walk alongside them every day.
Whether you’re in recovery, supporting a loved one, or simply passionate about mental health and addiction awareness, here are 10 thoughtful ways to get involved and make a difference this month.
Chances are, someone in your circle has been affected by addiction. A short text, phone call, or in-person check-in can be a powerful reminder that they’re not alone. Even if they’re not in treatment, your support could encourage them to take the next step.
Recovery Month is a meaningful time to pause and reflect on your personal journey or the journey of someone close to you. A walk through a local park, journaling session, or quiet moment of gratitude can be a powerful way to honor growth and resilience.
Help reduce stigma by sharing recovery stories, encouragement, or treatment resources on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn. Use hashtags like #RecoveryMonth and consider downloading graphics and talking points from the SAMHSA Recovery Month Toolkit.
Massachusetts has a strong recovery community with in-person and virtual events throughout September. These might include:
You can find upcoming events through:
Or, host your own event—such as a recovery-friendly movie night, lunch-and-learn, or art session.
Whether it’s a counselor, sponsor, family member, or friend—someone has likely been a steady source of encouragement in your life or the life of someone you care about. Take time to thank them through a message, a note, or even a small gift.
Give back to your community by volunteering at a recovery center, food pantry, or outreach program. Many local nonprofits and treatment centers in Massachusetts welcome volunteers during Recovery Month. Volunteering can also offer a renewed sense of purpose and connection.
Connection is essential in recovery. Plan a fun, substance-free activity like:
Recovery-friendly social events show that fun and sobriety absolutely go hand in hand.
Help raise awareness by encouraging your town, workplace, or school to issue a Recovery Month proclamation. It’s a meaningful way to publicly acknowledge those in recovery and promote resources that support treatment access.
Find customizable proclamation templates at samhsa.gov.
Prevention is a crucial part of long-term recovery efforts. Attend a school-based prevention event, support an organization focused on youth outreach, or simply talk to a young person about the risks of substance use. Every conversation matters.
Whether you’re in recovery or supporting someone who is, Recovery Month is a reminder to care for yourself. That might mean sticking to a healthy routine, journaling, attending therapy, or simply taking a break when needed. Caring for yourself is one of the best ways to model and support recovery.
National Recovery Month is not limited to those in treatment. It’s a community-wide call to action—urging us all to listen, support, and uplift those affected by addiction and mental health challenges.
By participating, you become part of a larger movement that recognizes the strength of recovery and the value of every individual.
At Middlesex Recovery, we’re proud to support patients across Massachusetts—and beyond—as they work toward lasting recovery. With evidence-based outpatient care, MAT options like Suboxone and Vivitrol, and flexible scheduling, we’re committed to removing barriers and offering accessible support.
Our locations include:
Call us today at 781-303-9936 or find your closest clinic to get started.
Together, we can make Recovery Month a meaningful time of change, connection, and hope.
If opioid addiction is impacting your life or the life of someone you care about, reach out to our treatment center. We are here to provide the support and care you need to take the first step toward recovery.
Call 781.303.9936