September is National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month

One out of every seven New Yorkers suffer from a substance use disorder or problem gambling.  It’s likely that you can think of a friend, relative or co-worker who’s drinking, drugging or gambling has resulted in a social, legal or safety issue.  It’s also likely that you can identify with someone who is engaged in the process of recovery from the disease of addiction.

Every September, those who work in the field of addictions celebrate the strides that have been made to effectively diagnose and treat individuals with an alcohol or substance use disorder.   We know that when left undiagnosed and treated the health effects of alcoholism are significant and include liver disease, brain damage and diabetes to name a few.  Other aspects of life are adversely impacted as well.  Marriages and family relationships become strained, distant and often fall apart completely.  Jobs are lost due to tardiness, absenteeism and poor performance.  In general, health diminishes.

Recovery from the disease of addiction, like that of other diseases can be long and difficult, shorter and swift or anywhere in between.  Recovery is hard work and building on one’s recovery requires mental and physical effort.  The on-going effort can result in restored and renewed relationships, fewer medical issues, new job opportunities and improving overall general health.

For more information about Recovery Month visit the NYS Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services Website http://www.oasas.ny.gov/ or call GCASA at 343-1124.