National Addiction Professionals Day is a day designated to recognize and honor addiction professionals who are dedicated to helping individuals and families who are affected by substance use disorders. These professionals include addiction counselors, therapists, social workers, nurses, doctors, and various other healthcare providers who play crucial roles in the prevention, treatment, and recovery of individuals struggling with addiction.
National Addiction Professionals Day will be celebrated on September 20th as part of National Recovery Month. This day aims to celebrate the vital players of the health system and continuum of care: addiction professionals. The day was established by the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC) in 1992 to raise awareness about the importance of addiction treatment and the significant contributions of addiction professionals in helping people overcome addiction.
Celebrations and activities on National Addiction Professionals Day include educational events, seminars, workshops, and initiatives aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding addiction and highlighting the importance of accessible and effective addiction treatment services. It’s a day to acknowledge the essential role that addiction professionals play in supporting individuals on their journey to sobriety and improved well-being.
Learn more about National Addiction Professionals Day here
Learn more about National Recovery Month here
My Favorite Substance Use & Mental Health Disorder Counseling Resources:
Mind Remke Project:
A therapy and mental health resource site. The concept of “mind remake” is that we all have the capacity to change, grow, and thrive. With enough kindness, support, or education, we gain the ability to rewire our brains as we recover from addiction and emotional pain. This site itself is the “project” (an undertaking or task) that aims to provide helpful tools for remaking, reinventing, and flourishing.
Click HERE for more information
Taking the Escalator:
Free Resources for Substance Use and Co-Occurring Treatment and Recovery.
Click HERE for more information
Therapist Aid:
Essential tools for addiction and mental health professionals. Therapy worksheets, audio, activities, and more.
Click HERE for more information
SAMHSA:
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is the agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation. Order and download free publications on topics including treatment, prevention, and recovery.
Click HERE for more information
Social Workers Toolbox:
Free social work tools and resources for direct work with children and adults by social workers.
Click HERE for more information
The Centre for Clinical Interventions (CCI):
This site has resources including demonstration videos, brief information sheets, commonly used worksheets, sets of modules to guide interventions, and therapist manuals for delivering group interventions.
Click HERE for more information
HelpGuide:
Free resource guides for mental health.
Click HERE for more information
A Disco Ball is Hundreds of Pieces of Broken Glass, Put Together to Make a Magical Ball of Light. You are NOT Broken, Friend. You are a DISCO BALL!
Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
