A direction on National Recovery Month, for the people living it and the people standing beside them.
September is National Recovery Month — a time set aside to recognize people who are in recovery, or seeking it, from mental health and substance use challenges. It's an observance I came to respect deeply over the years I spent in practice, because I watched how much courage it takes just to keep showing up for the next day, and the day after that.
In my years as a pediatrician, I wasn't treating addiction directly, but I worked alongside families who were living through it, and I saw something consistent: the people who did best weren't the ones who tried to overhaul their entire lives overnight. They were the ones who found one steady thing they could hold onto, and kept holding onto it.
I also ran an addiction clinic where, over a period of about 15 years, we helped more than 500 teens and young adults get off opiates and transition back to productive lives, free from life-threatening opiate addiction and dependence.
What each of us needs during these difficult times is a plan, the support of loved ones, and a professional who not only understands but will listen and stand with you as you navigate the recovery process.
I remember old navigation systems saying, “Recalculating route.” Addiction recovery is often like that. At times, we just have to say, “Okay, this isn’t working. Recalculate the route,” and keep making adjustments. When family and loving support are part of the plan, success is much more likely.
Thanks to all of you who are actively loving and supporting those who so desperately need our love and support.
In good health,
Dr. Paul (retired)