September is observed as National Recovery Month. It is a chance to educate the public on the issues in our own backyard and how we may overcome these challenges such as mental health and substance use treatment. Each year a different theme is selected as the focus of National Recovery Month. This year the theme is “Recovery is For Everyone: Every Person, Every Family, Every Community”. This theme is to show the support that exists, that no one is alone in the recovery journey. Rates of substance abuse, overdose, and more are on the rise year over year. 70,980 people died of a drug overdose in 2019, a 4.6% increase over the year before. 2021 statistics so far show that 22 million people have suffered from substance use disorders. Addiction does not only affect those with the problem, but it affects those surrounding them as well. There are 45 million people directly impacted by addiction. One could be your coworker, your neighbor, or even a family member you are unaware of. Take the time to educate yourself on mental health and substance abuse and the recovery options available. Society needs to work together to help those in need and support them through this difficult battle. No one is alone in this journey, and it needs to be recognized. Our goal here at The Baltimore Station is to support those who have served our country.

There are over 20 million veterans in the United States – more than any other country in the world. As we know, when these veterans return from duty, they face many challenges: adjusting to civilian life, finding a job, reconnecting with family and friends. Many have physical injuries that they will never recover from. However, for many more, the biggest trauma is in the mind. Post-traumatic stress and anxiety all take a heavy toll on former service people. Around 13.5% of vets suffer from PTSD alone.

Unfortunately, the global pandemic has only made the problem worse. In mid-August, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed the results of a survey conducted in late June that shows just how serious the psychological and emotional impact of the Coronavirus pandemic is for Americans from all walks of life, especially including the men that we serve here at The Baltimore Station. During these uncertain times, populations like ours who misuse or abuse alcohol and/or other drugs, are particularly vulnerable. The stress from social isolation and other COVID-19 related life changes can lead to or worsen substance use and misuse.

The goal of National Recovery month is to educate the public on new evidence-based treatments and practices. And to honor the service providers and community members who help make recovery possible. We would like to take a moment to recognize the importance of each member of The Baltimore Station team who work hard each day to help our residents strive to live a clean and sober lifestyle and find the joys in life outside of substance use. Our team is how we are able to support our mission of turning lives around. September marks an important time in commemorating the steps each person is taking to recover, and the support system that is in place to help this recovery become possible.