Four Dimensions of Recovery
National Recovery Month, established in 1989 by SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration), is observed every September to raise awareness and support for new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices. It also highlights the strength of the recovery community and honors the commitment of service providers and communities that make recovery in all its forms possible. SAMHSA works to increase public awareness about mental health and addiction recovery. Since the launch of Recovery Month, SAMHSA has used this time to announce key initiatives and grant funding, partnering with public and private organizations to celebrate individuals in long-term recovery.
This month, Healthy Acadia joins SAMHSA in highlighting the Four Major Dimensions of Recovery: Health, Home, Purpose, and Community. These are the factors that all individuals need to live healthy, happy, independent lives and reach their full potential.
We can strive to be healthier and achieve our wellness goals.
We can overcome challenges related to mental health and substance use conditions.
It is OK to reach out for help with substance use and mental health conditions.
Making informed healthy choices can support our well-being.
It's OK and important to reach out for help, especially if addiction or mental health conditions are affecting our relationships, work, or day-to-day life.
We all need a stable and safe place to call home.
A home provides the foundation for a life in recovery.
Home is a safe, stable, and soft space to land...even on those really hard days.
Creating safe, affordable housing for all with mental health and substance use conditions supports their recovery.
Finding purpose in life may be a powerful driver for recovery.
Purpose includes meaningful daily activities.
Employment can support recovery, give a sense of purpose, and a way to provide for yourself and your family.
Purpose may include a job, school, volunteering, caregiving, or creative pursuits.
Spirituality can bring a sense of purpose and meaning that helps foster recovery.
Helping others can bring a great sense of purpose and contribute to recovery.
Building social supports and a caring community is essential for recovery.
We do not recover alone. Recovery can be easier with the support of others.
Community can include people who accept us and encourage us to grow.
Family, friends, peers, and others play an important role in someone’s recovery.
Recovery is supported through meaningful relationships.
Social inclusion, not isolation, is important for recovery.