Some Sobering Facts: Why Heroes in Recovery Got Started

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 20 million people needed substance abuse treatment last year and did not receive it. About 10 million Americans did not receive needed mental healthcare. The stigma associated with substance abuse and mental health disorders creates a significant barrier to individuals and families seeking help.

Foundations Recovery Network and the widespread community of those who are in recovery from addiction and co-occurring disorders would like to break this stigma.

How Heroes in Recovery Set Out to Change the Conversation on Addiction and Recovery

Heroes in Recovery is a grassroots movement that seeks to remove the social stigma associated with getting addiction treatment and being in recovery. The Heroes movement is about building a recovery community that bands together to share powerful stories of personal transformation in order to inspire others to get help. It is a community dedicated to staying active and involved in a network of support and breaking down the barriers that keep people from seeking the treatment they need. The Heroes effort also intends to recognize the heroic acts of recovery made every day by people who continue to stay clean and sober. It honors heroes recovering from many other types of disorders and trauma that can feed or manifest from an addiction as well. It’s important for the public to understand, embrace and encourage people who are finding a way to thrive within their own circumstances and live the lives that they desire and deserve.

Download and share the Heroes in Recovery infographic to help spread the word about the movement! You can also visit the Heroes in Recovery site and read some of the stories people have shared. Maybe it will encourage you to share your own! You don’t have to be in recovery to know the effects that substance abuse can have on a family or friendships. You can also support someone you know who is waging his or her own battle with addiction or mental health issues. The Heroes movement needs you!

With your help, we look forward to a future of enabling others to get help, encouraging those who are getting treatment and celebrating with those who have won the fight to stay clean and sober.