Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month: Raising Awareness and Breaking Down Barriers to Treatment

January is Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month—an opportunity to spread awareness, offer support, share resources, and remove the barriers that prevent people from accessing the help they need. It is dedicated to supporting individuals, families, and communities in addressing substance use disorders (SUDs).

Introduced by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), Treatment Month aims to help those considering or actively seeking help for substance use; support healthcare professionals in treating substance use disorders; and provide guidance to friends, family, and loved ones of individuals impacted by substance use.

Read on to find various ways you can address the challenges of substance use disorders in the weeks ahead.

Week 1: Starting Fresh

Is a loved one struggling with substance use? This New Year, let’s commit to supporting those in need. Together, we can encourage them to take the first step toward recovery.

• Dry January or a fresh start? Whether it’s a temporary break or a permanent change, supporting someone who wants to reduce or quit substance use is a powerful way to show care. 
• Seeking treatment? If you’re considering treatment for alcohol or other substance use, you’re not alone. The journey to recovery can start with one step, and that step could change your life. 
• Small steps lead to big changes. Recovery is a process. Focus on one day at a time.

Week 2: Reducing Stigma

It’s time to break down the barriers of stigma that keep many from seeking the treatment they need. Everyone deserves a chance at recovery. 

• Stigma is a major barrier. One of the most significant obstacles to treatment is the stigma surrounding SUDs. If you or someone you know is hesitant to seek help, encourage them to take that first step. 
• Treatment can change lives. Substance use treatment doesn’t just help people stop using drugs or alcohol—it helps rebuild lives, strengthen relationships, and help individuals regain control.
• You deserve support: No one should face the challenges of substance use alone. Treatment works, and it starts with reaching out. You are worthy of a healthier, happier life.

Week 3: Demystifying Treatment Options

Recovery is possible. The right support, programs, and medications can help you face your SUD. 

• Medications play a key role in recovery. Effective treatment for substance use disorder often includes a combination of medications, therapy, and recovery supports.
• Battling substance use? FDA-approved medications can help manage substance use disorders and improve quality of life. 
• Life-saving medications. Medications like methadone and buprenorphine can be essential in treating opioid use disorder.

Week 4: Building Treatment-Friendly Communities

Facing and overcoming substance use is not a journey you have to take alone. If you or someone close to you is impacted by substance use, recovery is possible. There is no shame in seeking help.

• Supporting a loved one’s recovery. You can make a difference in the life of someone struggling with substance use. Your support could be the key to their healing. 
• Not sure where to start? When it comes to a loved one dealing with a SUD, it’s okay to be unsure of how to help. Starting the conversation can be daunting, but it’s a vital step toward recovery. 
• Celebrate the journey. Recovery isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the progress made along the way. Celebrate every milestone, no matter how small.
• Taking the first step. Starting treatment can feel difficult, but it’s a courageous decision that can change your life. If you or someone you know needs help, there are people who care. 

Moving Toward Treatment

Raising awareness about treatment options, including medications for substance use disorders, can help fight stigma surrounding treatment; encourage and uplift individuals on their journey to recovery; and promote best practices in screening, intervention, and treatment by healthcare providers.

Greenhouse Treatment Center is here to provide the information, support, and guidance you need as you take your first step. Don’t let uncertainty or fear stop you from moving toward help so you can begin on your path toward sobriety.