Marine Corps Base Quantico,VA -- Oftentimes, individuals who experience a mental health and/or substance use disorder feel isolated and alone. Yet, every year millions of Americans experience these conditions. It’s important that we offer support to individuals facing mental health and/or substance use disorders. In fact, we need to create environments and relationships that promote acceptance. Support from families is essential to recovery, so it’s important that family members have the tools to start conversations about prevention, treatment, and recovery. Too many people are still unaware that prevention works and that mental and substance use disorders can be treated, just like other health problems.
Having worked in the recovery field for over 10 years, I have witnessed the positive reality of recovery. Individuals who embrace recovery achieve improved mental and physical health and form stronger relationships with their neighbors, family members, and peers. We need to help people understand that recovery is possible.
Mental health and/or substance use disorders affect people of all ethnicities, ages, genders, geographic regions and socioeconomic levels. They need to know that help is available. These individuals can get better, both physically and emotionally, with the support of a welcoming community.
Families and communities can find hope and spread the message that recovery works by celebrating the annual National Recovery Month (Recovery Month), an initiative sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Quantico’s Counseling CSACC is celebrating Recovery Month by holding a variety of events to honor individuals and families who are in long-term recovery. Your attendance will demonstrate the support of the recovery community, including those who provide prevention, treatment, and recovery support services.
I urge all community members to join the celebration and help stem the incidence of mental and substance use disorders. Let people know that free, confidential help is available 24 hours a day through SAMHSA’s National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or 1-800-487-4889 (TDD). Consolidated Substance Abuse Counseling Center (CSACC) offers substance abuse assessment and treatment services aboard MCB Quantico.
Offering support to those experiencing mental health and/or substance use disorders can make a huge difference. Together we can help others realize the promise of recovery and give families the right support to help their loved ones. Call 703-784-3502 for help and information.
Following is CSACC’s National Recovery Month activities:
Recovery artwork showcase and information booth:
Youth Center: Sept. 6, 4?5:30 p.m.
Child Development Center South: Sept. 7, 4?6 p.m.
Child Development Center North: Sept. 8, 3?5 p.m.
Trivia Tuesday:
(Free lunch, mental health and substance abuse information provided via trivia)
Single Marine Program House: Sept. 12, 11 a.m.?12:30 p.m.
Marine Corps Embassy Security Group/Weapons Training Battalion: Sept. 19, 11 a.m.?12:30 p.m.
Zumba glow party:
Barber Physical Activities Center: Sept. 19, 6:05?7:05
Sunset Paddle:
Smith Lake/west side of base: Sept. 28, 5:30?7 p.m. Must register by Sept. 18. Call Outdoor Adventure Center at 703-432-6484 for more information, directions and to register. Price is $10 for a single kayak and $15 for a double kayak or canoe.
CSACC sponsored paintball:
Quantico Paintball Park: Sept. 23, 3?5 p.m. $35 discounted rate
Building Families and Community:
Bowling, basement of Little Hall: Sept. 26, 3?5 p.m. $5 for two hours of bowling, shoes included
“Stress Less” One day mindfulness retreat:
Prince William Forest Park: Sept. 28, 9 a.m.?3:30 p.m. RSVP in advance by calling 703-784-2570