National Recovery Month 2026

This September, we honor National Recovery Month. It’s a time to celebrate hope and affirm that people can and do recover from substance use challenges. Throughout the month, we’ll raise our voices, broaden awareness and celebrate the remarkable progress made by so many on their recovery journeys.

What is National Recovery Month?

National Recovery Month was established in 1989 by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to promote evidence-based treatment and recovery practices. It also celebrates the nation’s vibrant recovery community and honors all those who help make recovery possible.

How Does the National Council Support Recovery?

Supporting recovery is at the heart of our mission to advance mental wellbeing. Mental wellbeing is a state of thriving. It is the foundation of living a strong, healthy and fulfilling life. We believe that mental wellbeing is achievable for everyone — including individuals living with or recovering from a mental health or substance use challenge.

We support recovery year-round by sharing resources to educate the field, hosting events that highlight emerging trends and best practices, delivering trainings to strengthen the workforce, showcasing lived experience through storytelling, and advocating for stronger, better-funded and more integrated behavioral health and recovery systems.

National Council x Optimity Recovery Month Challenge

This National Recovery Month, the National Council is partnering with Optimity, a wellness and rewards app available through participating employers.

Join us Sept. 24–30 for a free, interactive wellness challenge. Through daily quizzes and activities, participants will learn about recovery, challenge common misconceptions, explore evidence-based approaches and discover ways to support people in recovery.

Participants can earn points redeemable for rewards through the Optimity platform.

Why is National Recovery Month Important?

National Recovery Month plays a vital role in fostering understanding and driving positive change in the fields of addiction and mental health. By recognizing it, we can:

Bring attention to the resources, services and support systems available for those in need.

Educate others about the nature of addiction, the recovery process and available tools.

Foster a sense of community among individuals in recovery, their families and supporters.

Celebrate and acknowledge the achievements of individuals who are in recovery.

Show that recovery is possible by sharing stories and showcasing successful outcomes.

Reduce stigma and foster a more supportive environment for those affected.

Encourage advocacy for better policies, funding and research.

Help dispel myths and misconceptions about addiction.

How Can I Learn More About Recovery?

Throughout the month, we’ll host webinars that examine how communities, workplaces, families and care providers can support recovery at every stage.

• National Recovery Month Virtual Event: Recognizing Addiction Transfer in Recovery
  Sept. 15, 12:30 p.m. ET
  Recovery does not happen in isolation. Substance use, eating disorders, gaming and gambling can intersect through shared patterns of reward, coping and compulsion. During this Recovery Month webinar, experts will examine which recovery skills carry across conditions, how one addiction may shift into another and what individuals, families and providers should watch for as recovery evolves.
  
  Join the National Council for a timely discussion on brain health, co-occurring conditions and the factors that support sustained recovery long after treatment ends. Register today!
  
  
• Stories of Hope: A Value-centered Approach to Storytelling
  Whether you’re engaged in recovery, advocacy, youth work or community outreach, your story has the power to inspire and connect. In this informational webinar — developed in partnership with Joseph Green of LMSvoice — you’ll be guided to reflect on your journey, uncover pivotal moments and craft compelling stories that highlight your values, resilience and growth. Register today!

How Can I Support Recovery?

Show your support by staying informed and helping those in need. Here are some tools and resources to help you get started:

• Recovery Tools: Find resources like Challenges in Standardizing SUD Care Coordination on our Substance Use Hub. This issue brief identifies barriers and solutions for a more reliable system of care.
  
• Get Trained: Equip your team or organization to recognize and respond to mental health and substance use needs by taking Mental Health First Aid, a skills-based training that’s trusted by millions worldwide. Explore our courses!
  
• Raise Awareness: Help us bring attention to recovery by downloading our National Recovery Month graphics and sharing them on social media. Every post you share helps fight stigma and celebrates the power of recovery.

How Can I Stay Informed of Recovery News?