September 23, 2003 - Recovery Month Focuses on the Importance of Effective Treatment

This September marks the fourteenth annual "National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month." This year's theme, "Join the Voices of Recovery: A Call to Action," focused America's attention on more treatment services and better coordination of existing services.

During the month of September, public and private partners throughout Kansas joined together to help individuals in their community recognize that alcohol and substance abuse and addiction are treatable diseases. Nationally, it is estimated that 76 percent of those in need of treatment for a problem with illicit drugs did not seek or receive treatment. Among those most in need of effective, coordinated services are men, women, and youth who are addicted to drugs and/or alcohol and may also have a co-occurring mental disorder or co-existing physical illness. Millions of people are in need of treatment for both substance abuse and mental disorders, but too often they are undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, or slip through the cracks entirely, such as those in our nation's homeless population. Half of the people living in our streets have co-occurring mental and substance abuse disorders.

Donna Doolin, Director of Addiction and Prevention Services, a division of the Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services, stated that she hoped this year's Recovery Month helped individuals realize that drug and alcohol abuse is a medical condition that requires effective treatment. She emphasized that "treatment of addiction is just as effective as treatment for other chronic diseases, such as diabetes and high blood pressure."

Doolin added, "Effective treatment programs and services are critical to the success of an individual recovering from addiction. The support of family, friends, and their community is equally important."

If you or someone you know is struggling with a drug or alcohol problem, join the "Voices of Recovery." For treatment information, seek out help in your community or call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Note to reporters: For additional information, please see contact list below.

Contacts for Recovery Month Stories