In a proclamation by Governor JB Pritzker, Illinois has officially recognized September as National Recovery Month, celebrating individuals recovering from mental health and substance use conditions.
This month-long observance aims to raise public awareness about the importance of recovery and the ongoing efforts to reduce stigma surrounding mental health and substance use disorders.
The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) is spearheading numerous initiatives throughout the month, collaborating with community partners to host events such as trainings, speaking engagements, memorials, and online activities.
One of the most visible efforts will be the lighting of the Chicago skyline in purple from September 3-9, symbolizing recovery and hope for those affected by these conditions.
A significant highlight of this year’s Recovery Month is the 2024 National Recovery Rally Hub Event, which will take place on September 21 in Chicago.
This event will bring together individuals in recovery, their families, friends, and advocates from across the nation for a day dedicated to education, community awareness, and celebration of recovery journeys.
IDHS, through its Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery (SUPR), continues to implement strategies to reduce the harms of substance use in Illinois.
In the 2024 fiscal year, organizations enrolled in the Drug Overdose Prevention Program (DOPP) trained over 46,000 people on recognizing signs of opioid overdose and administering naloxone.
During the same period, DOPP organizations distributed over 193,000 naloxone kits, resulting in more than 3,175 reported overdose reversals. In fiscal year 2022, SUPR funded treatment services for over 39,400 people suffering from substance use disorders.
Illinois remains committed to supporting those in recovery and offering resources for individuals struggling with mental health and substance use conditions.
For assistance, the Illinois Helpline for Opioids and Other Substances is available at 1-833-2FINDHELP, and the 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline offers mental health support 24/7.
Additionally, the Illinois Warm Line provides phone-based recovery support from Monday through Saturday.Key dates for National Recovery Month include the Chicago skyline lighting from September 3-9 and the Recovery Rally on September 21.
