Recovery Month promotes healing for substance abusers

By Diane Saunders
Staff Writer
Published on Wednesday, September 16, 2009 9:22 AM MST

In conjunction with National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, September was declared Recovery Month in Graham County.

Safford Mayor Ron Green, Thatcher Mayor Bob Rivera and Pima Mayor Russell Woods recently joined with County Board of Supervisors Chairman Drew John to sign a proclamation that calls upon all residents to observe this month with "appropriate programs, activities and ceremonies" that support this year's theme, "Join the Voices for Recovery: Together We Learn, Together We Heal."

While many people view alcohol and drug abuse as a personal weakness, the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration news release states substance abuse and addiction is a medical illness.

Pima Mayor Russell Woods, left, Safford Mayor Ron Green, Thatcher Mayor Bob Rivera and County Board of Supervisors Chairman Drew John sign a proclamation declaring September as Recovery Month in Graham County. Contributed photo

"The truth is that addiction is a medical condition that should be treated like any other illness," the release states.

Kathy Grimes, coordinator of the Graham County Anti-Meth Coalition, said there are several places addicts and their families can find help locally. For example, there are 12-step programs offered by Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous.

Counseling is also available at Southeast Arizona Behavioral Health Services and other mental health facilities, Grimes said.

She added that throughout September, she and other coalition members will be at home football games to pass out informational materials about Recovery Month and services available in Graham County.

For more information contact SEABHS at 428-6051 and ask for Grimes.

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