September is National Recovery Month—a time to celebrate those who are starting, currently, and successfully succeeding in their journey towards recovery. National Recovery Month, which started in 1989, is a time to promote and support new evidence-based treatment, recovery practices, individuals in recovery, and the dedication of providers that make recovery happen (SAMHSA, 2025).

What Is Recovery?

The process of recovery is specific for each individual which may include clinical treatment, medication, faith-based approaches, peer support, family support, self-care, and other approaches (SAMHSA, 2025). According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), they define recovery as, “A process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.”

SAMHSA has a 10 Guiding Principles of Recovery, which help those who are struggling, started, or are currently in recovery. It first starts with the belief that recovery is possible, defining goals, taking steps that best work with the individual, creating relationships and social support groups, addressing past trauma, building personal strengths, and acceptance.

History of National Recovery Month

From the 1750s to the early 1800s, Native American tribes formed the “Alcoholic Mutual Aid” society, using traditional healing to treat alcoholism. In 1784, physician “Benjamin Rush” argued that alcoholism was a disease needing treatment. In 1935, Wilson and Dr. Bob, unable to stay sober, founded Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.), which grew to over 90,000 members by 1950 and inspired the creation of the Halfway House Association in 1958. In 2002, the FDA approved buprenorphine for opioid addiction treatment. The 2008 Mental Health Parity Act required equal insurance coverage for mental health and substance use treatment.

Understanding Addiction and Recovery

Addiction is defined by the National Institute on Drug Abuse as “a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite adverse consequences.” Catherine Fulop, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, explains how there are certain preconceived notions about those struggling with addiction. “They think we can just stop,” said Fulop.

Fulop has 30 years of experience of working with those who are addicted, have been addicted, or wanting to start their journey. She has worked in different clinics and centers to help people who are struggling with addiction. “I wanted to do this and wanted to do it with people who are in recovery that are trying to start their own lives,” said Fulop.

According to the 2023 United States National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 48.5 million (16.7%) Americans (ages 12 or older) battled a substance use disorder in the past year. In addition, genetics account for about 40%-60% of a person's risk to addiction.

Fulop elaborates how working with those with addictions is not about their physical consequences but looking into their internalized and emotional aspects of what happens after partaking in a substance. Fulop uses cognitive challenging and motivational interviewing to gain a deeper understanding of where and how substance use disorders play a role in her clients well-being.

Why Mental Health Awareness Matters in Recovery

Fulop describes how the Twelve Step recovery plan is beneficial for those who are struggling with substance use disorders. In addition, she emphasizes the importance of being active in therapy and recovery groups, as it allows for personal growth and development.

Many individuals have both addiction and mental health problems. This is because one informs the other—such as drinking alcohol because of depression or using a drug to cope with anxiety—which is known as dual diagnosis. Research shows that participation in counseling and medication provides individuals a chance for a successful recovery. Counseling helps individuals get to the root of their understanding—How did the drug addiction begin?

How Do I Start My Recovery Journey?

Wilmington Mental Health offers substance use disorders treatment to those in the Wilmington area. We recognize that substance use disorders are a significant public health challenge that affects millions of individuals. Our outpatient program is designed to support individuals from all walks of life in achieving and maintaining sobriety. We offer a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach that includes psychoeducation, aftercare treatment, and relapse prevention.

Wilmington Mental Health has also partnered with Wilmington Medical Care to provide medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to help with your recovery journey. Our MAT program is for individuals who may be experiencing pain and discomfort from opioid or alcohol withdrawal.

Our outpatient substance abuse program is suitable for people with jobs or extensive social supports, is low-intensity, and offers more than just drug education or relapse prevention. Our program is comparable to residential programs in services and effectiveness and adapts to your individual characteristics and needs.

Get In Touch

Contact us today to start your journey to recovery. Wilmington Mental Health has a team of counselors who are here to guide you on a path to fulfill your overall well-being. We are here to remind you that you are not alone.