Ontario’s government is joining Addictions and Mental Health Ontario this September to mark the 13th annual celebration of recovery in Ontario.
This month, join family, friends and residents of Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound to build awareness, challenge stigma, and celebrate the role that recovery plays in improving the lives of individuals, families, and communities.
Every year, 2.5 million Ontarians experience an addiction or mental health challenge. Recovery Month is an opportunity for those affected by addiction to share stories, talk about treatment options, and to work together to break the stigma surrounding addiction.
Since the launch of Ontario’s first annual recovery campaign in 2006, the movement’s momentum has increased and gained a larger audience in communities across the province. Although the road to recovery can look different for everyone, it is important that we continue to speak openly about addiction, so those struggling know they are not alone.
“Together with Addictions and Mental Health Ontario, our government recognizes that through the support of the local community, treatment can be effective, and people living with addiction can recover,” said Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “This September, I encourage you and your family to attend a Recovery Month event near you, so that together – we can make a difference.”
“We have committed to investing $3.8 billion over the next 10 years to build a comprehensive and connected mental health and addictions system,” said Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Bill Walker. “By all of us working together, we can – and we will – create a connected system of care where every Ontarian is truly supported.”
“Addiction should be treated the same way as other health conditions,” says Adrienne Spafford, CEO of Addictions and Mental Health Ontario. “It’s important that when people have the courage to reach out for help, the appropriate services and supports are available no matter where you live in the province.”
AMHO is the leading voice for addictions care in Ontario representing nearly 200 addiction and mental health organizations. AMHO’s members provide services and supports that help Ontarians with their recovery.
The first annual recovery campaign in Ontario was held in October 2006 by members of Addictions and Mental Health Ontario. This year, more than a dozen communities in Ontario are hosting events to celebrate recovery month, from St. Catherine’s and Brantford to Thunder Bay and Kapuskasing.
