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Walk for Recovery 2024

SAMHSA・57 minutes read

The event highlights the significance of Recovery Month, with speakers like Tom Codair sharing personal stories of overcoming addiction and emphasizing community support and advocacy for recovery resources. Additionally, the narratives underscore the progress in changing societal perceptions of mental health and addiction, while encouraging ongoing participation and support for recovery initiatives nationwide.

Insights

  • Paulo Deio, the director of the Office of Recovery at SAMHSA, underscores the significance of Recovery Month, which celebrates achievements in overcoming mental health and substance use challenges, and aims to shift public perceptions around addiction, emphasizing that recovery is possible for everyone.
  • Tom Codair shares his personal story of addiction and recovery, highlighting that 72% of adults who perceive they have had a substance use problem are now in recovery, and he calls for continued advocacy and support for recovery services, including an upcoming National Hub event in Chicago to bolster community engagement.
  • The event showcases diverse voices in recovery, including speakers like Amy Brinkley and Johnny Alum, who stress the importance of community support and shared experiences in the recovery journey, while also addressing ongoing challenges such as stigma and access to care, ultimately fostering a culture of compassion and resilience.

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Recent questions

  • What is the meaning of recovery?

    Recovery refers to the process of overcoming challenges related to mental health and substance use disorders. It involves a journey towards regaining control over one’s life, often supported by community resources, therapy, and personal determination. Recovery is not just about abstaining from substances; it encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Individuals in recovery often share their experiences to inspire others, emphasizing that recovery is achievable and can lead to a fulfilling life. The process is unique for everyone, and it requires patience, support, and a commitment to personal growth.

  • How can I support someone in recovery?

    Supporting someone in recovery involves understanding their journey and providing a compassionate, non-judgmental environment. It’s essential to listen actively and encourage open communication, allowing them to express their feelings and challenges. Offering practical help, such as attending support meetings together or assisting with daily tasks, can also be beneficial. Additionally, educating yourself about addiction and recovery can help you understand their experiences better. Encouraging healthy habits, celebrating milestones, and being patient during setbacks are crucial aspects of providing support. Ultimately, showing love and commitment can significantly impact their recovery journey.

  • What are the signs of addiction?

    Signs of addiction can vary but often include changes in behavior, mood swings, and neglecting responsibilities. Individuals may exhibit increased secrecy, withdrawal from social activities, and a decline in physical health. They might also experience cravings for the substance or behavior they are addicted to, leading to compulsive use despite negative consequences. Other signs include financial problems due to spending on substances, legal issues, and relationship conflicts. Recognizing these signs early can be crucial for encouraging individuals to seek help and support for their addiction.

  • What is a recovery community?

    A recovery community is a supportive network of individuals who share similar experiences related to addiction and recovery. These communities provide a safe space for individuals to connect, share their stories, and offer mutual support. They often include various resources such as support groups, educational programs, and social activities that promote healing and personal growth. Recovery communities emphasize the importance of peer support, helping individuals feel less isolated in their struggles. They play a vital role in fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging individuals to maintain their recovery journey.

  • How does stigma affect recovery?

    Stigma can significantly hinder recovery by creating barriers to seeking help and support. Individuals facing addiction often encounter negative stereotypes and discrimination, which can lead to feelings of shame and isolation. This stigma may discourage them from accessing treatment or sharing their experiences with others. It can also affect their relationships with family and friends, making it harder to build a supportive network. Overcoming stigma requires community education and advocacy to promote understanding and acceptance of addiction as a health issue. Reducing stigma is essential for creating an environment where individuals feel safe to pursue recovery.

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Summary

00:00

Celebrating Recovery Month and Community Support

  • Speakers presenting today are instructed to go to the speaker's tent for coordination, with specific mentions of individuals like Nicholas Fber and David Sita needing to connect with the audio team.
  • The event is introduced by Paulo Deio, the director of the Office of Recovery at SAMHSA, who emphasizes the importance of Recovery Month and the celebration of recovery from mental health and substance use conditions.
  • Tom Codair, the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary at SAMHSA, highlights the significance of Recovery Month, which has been observed for over 30 years every September, to raise awareness about recovery and combat negative perceptions associated with addiction.
  • Codair shares his personal journey of addiction, detailing how he lost his family, political career, and health, but ultimately found recovery through SAMHSA's support, which he credits for his current role in advocating for recovery.
  • He mentions that according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 29 million adults perceive they have had a substance use problem, with 72% of them now in recovery, reinforcing the message that recovery is achievable for everyone.
  • Codair announces a National Hub event in Chicago on September 21st, encouraging attendees to participate, and recognizes the presence of SAMHSA regional directors from various cities, including Boston, New York City, and Seattle.
  • He discusses SAMHSA's recent announcement of $81.3 million in grant awards aimed at building communities of recovery and increasing access to long-term recovery resources.
  • Codair notes President Biden's budget proposal includes a 10% set aside for Recovery Support Services, urging Congress to act on this funding to enhance recovery infrastructure across the country.
  • Nicholas Fster, a rapper and songwriter, shares his journey of using music as a form of recovery and creative expression, emphasizing the importance of honesty and vulnerability in the recovery process.
  • Rob Morrison, Executive Director of the National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors, calls for support for investments in recovery and recognizes Eric Tahera from Utah for his leadership in recovery efforts, highlighting the need for strong resources and advocacy in the field.

17:39

March for Recovery and Advocacy Support

  • Co-workers at NASADAD participated in a march emphasizing the importance of recovery, highlighting their commitment to ensuring state alcohol and drug agencies provide necessary support for families affected by substance use disorders.
  • A speaker, a family member of someone in long-term recovery, expressed gratitude for the support their loved one received, which has allowed them to celebrate life together, while also acknowledging the ongoing overdose crisis that affects many families.
  • Amy Brinkley from the National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors shared her personal journey of recovery, celebrating 15 years of continuous mental health and substance use recovery, and emphasized her work advocating for individuals in the criminal justice system.
  • Brinkley noted the growth of recovery infrastructure across the country, crediting SAMHSA's leadership and initiatives like SPARK, which aim to unite local, state, and federal efforts in recovery support.
  • Johnny Alum, a recovery advocate with 42 years of sobriety, shared his story of overcoming alcoholism, emphasizing the importance of sharing experiences and supporting others in recovery as a means of healing.
  • Martin Mash, Network Program Director for VOCAL Virginia, discussed the organization’s commitment to mental health advocacy, education, and ensuring that individuals with lived experiences are involved in decision-making processes at all government levels.
  • Katie Rouse, Executive Director of On Our Own of Maryland, highlighted the organization’s history and achievements, including training over 20,000 individuals in anti-stigma practices and operating 23 peer-run centers that serve over 8,000 Marylanders.
  • Joe Paw, President and CEO of the Association of Persons Affected by Addiction in Dallas, Texas, celebrated 35 years of recovery and emphasized the importance of promoting recovery loudly and visibly to inspire others.
  • The event featured a call to action for continued advocacy and support for recovery communities, stressing the need for peer support and the importance of recovery-oriented systems of care (ROSC) across the nation.
  • The speakers collectively recognized the ongoing challenges in the recovery movement, including stigma and access to care, while expressing hope and determination to continue fighting for those affected by substance use disorders and mental health challenges.

35:15

Overcoming Approach Anxiety and Finding Connection

  • The speaker shares a humorous personal story about "approach anxiety," a common feeling of nervousness when trying to approach someone attractive, particularly in a retail setting.
  • The speaker describes a moment of intense nervousness when encountering a beautiful woman in a store, detailing physical reactions like weak knees and sweaty palms, which hindered his ability to speak.
  • He recalls his friend encouraging him to be bold, but he ultimately froze and left the store without making a connection, feeling foolish for missing the opportunity.
  • A few weeks later, he returns to the store for a prop for a video shoot and is surprised to find the same woman there, leading to a brief interaction where he asks for help and learns her name.
  • During their conversation, he mentions being an artist and filming a video series about honesty, while internally he is focused on his attraction to her.
  • They exchange Instagram handles, and he feels hopeful about staying in touch, but later discovers she is gay, which adds a humorous twist to his story.
  • The speaker reflects on the importance of overcoming fear and taking chances in life, encouraging the audience to pursue connections without overthinking.
  • He emphasizes that personal growth and recovery are ongoing processes, and he humorously considers selling windows as a more stable career path.
  • Shelly Wisman, the next speaker, introduces herself as a person in long-term recovery and discusses her journey from hopelessness to becoming an advocate for change in addiction policy.
  • She encourages attendees to connect with new people and share ideas for change, highlighting the importance of community support in recovery efforts.

53:33

Journey Through Addiction and Recovery Hope

  • The speaker expresses feelings of pollution and loss of self, indicating a struggle with mental health and addiction, and mentions a desire to numb the pain with various substances, including a new pill that promises relief.
  • Childhood trauma is highlighted as a significant factor contributing to the speaker's current struggles, with references to abuse and feelings of being violated, which have led to a sense of weakness rather than strength.
  • The speaker describes experiencing severe depression and anxiety, feeling confused and unreliable, and contemplates self-harm, indicating a deep sense of despair and isolation.
  • Acknowledgment of lost friends and a message of hope is shared, emphasizing that recovery is possible and encouraging those still struggling to seek help and support.
  • The speaker identifies as an addict and discusses the challenges of recovery, mentioning the importance of not being judged and the need for support through the 12-step program to combat addiction.
  • The speaker reflects on the ongoing battle with addiction, describing it as a vicious cycle and expressing the need for patience and grace in the recovery process, emphasizing the importance of taking it day by day.
  • The speaker shares a personal journey of overcoming addiction, highlighting the significance of community support and the role of organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in providing a path to recovery.
  • The narrative shifts to a broader discussion on the changing perception of mental health and addiction in society, noting that these topics are now more openly discussed and accepted in political and social contexts.
  • Rhonda Johnson, a survivor of addiction, shares her story, emphasizing the importance of love, hope, and resilience in recovery, and encourages others to overcome stigma and seek help.
  • The event concludes with a call to action for community involvement in recovery efforts, including an upcoming event in Washington D.C. on October 9th, aimed at promoting recovery resources and support for those in need.

01:12:43

Community Support Fuels Recovery Event Success

  • The event emphasized the importance of community support in recovery, highlighting that every individual impacted contributes to the well-being of families and communities. Attendees were encouraged to take care of themselves and check in on others, fostering a culture of compassion and gratitude as they left the event.
  • Attendees were reminded to recycle their posters at the front of the stage, as they can be reused for future events. The speaker noted a significant increase in participation compared to the previous year, with a goal to fill the mall for National Recovery Month and the National Walk for Recovery, thanking various organizations and individuals for their support, including the National Council, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, and specific team members like Michael Askew and Julie Erikson for their leadership.
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