Holmes commissioners proclaim September as Recovery Month

Struggling with mental health continues to thwart millions of people around the globe. Thus, combating both the results and the stigma that can accompany it and finding ways to help people deal with it have become a much larger priority over the past few years.

On Monday, Sept. 16, the Holmes County commissioners passed a proclamation declaring September as Recovery Month, with several area leaders among the mental health recovery field in attendance to help celebrate the proclamation.

“We have a lot of entities present here today, and we are appreciative of our partnerships together to help in the process of recovery,” said commissioner Dave Hall, who serves on the Opioid Task Force in Eastern Ohio. “I know there are a lot of opportunities to take this to the next level in partnering with recovery.”

The proclamation recognized the national observance of Recovery Month, which was created in 1998 by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. That observance was created to increase awareness of the problems mental health issues can cause.

Today, an estimated 20.4 million adults in the United States are diagnosed with disorders while countless more go unrecognized.

It has been noted Ohio has a significant population struggling with addiction and mental health issues, and the commissioners want Holmes County to be a part of the solution in better understanding how people can manage these mental health problems while at the same time promoting compassion toward those dealing with issues.

The proclamation said, “Holmes County recognizes the importance of supporting individuals and families affected by addiction and applauds the tireless efforts of the Mental Health & Recovery Board of Wayne & Holmes Counties, the Counseling Center of Wayne & Holmes Counties, Anazao Community Partners, Catholic Charities, One-Eighty, NAMI Wayne and Holmes Counties, and other dedicated organizations and community stakeholders that provide vital recovery services and support.”

The commissioners said these and other organizations and individuals provide essential services that offer hope, healing and pathways to long-term recovery for those suffering from both substance abuse disorders and mental health issues. These people are instrumental in helping others rebuild their lives, strengthen families and relationships, and learn to better contribute to society.

Heather Dean, program director with Mental Health & Recovery Board of Wayne & Holmes Counties, was one of the many people on hand to honor this proclamation.

“On behalf of the Mental Health & Recovery Board, I want to thank our partner commissioners and celebrate with those who are recovering,” Dean said. “We are very proud and humbled to be a part of that journey.”

Tina Zickefoose, advocate at One-Eighty, said strides continue to be made toward eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

“I feel like what we are starting to see right now is that we are chipping away at the stigma,” Zickefoose said. “Everyone is coming together. The courts are on board, and the more we can get participation, the less stigma there is involved with it.”

She said with that growth there is an increase in seeing more individuals and families willing to open up and talk about mental health scenarios that are affecting their lives.

She said in small communities like the surrounding counties, rumors and discussion around mental health issues travel quickly, and creating a safe place where people don’t feel judged but instead feel supported is critical.

“Referral by word-of-mouth is more active than it’s ever been,” she said.

The proclamation encourages all citizens to join in recognizing the strength and resilience of those in the path to recovery, as well as celebrating the dedication of the professionals and organizations who are making a positive impact in helping others recover.

“I know each one of you are on the front lines,” Hall said. “We don’t get to see what you see, but there is much appreciation here from us to you and our partnership. Thank you for representing us. It truly takes a team.”

Anyone struggling with addiction or mental health issues is encouraged to contact one of these organizations to seek assistance in their road to recovery.