September is National Recovery Month. It’s dedicated to the idea that people can recover from addiction to live healthy lives. The problem is widespread in Washington, as more people die from substance abuse each year than motor vehicle accidents or from firearms.
Dr. Joseph Hullet is a board certified psychiatrist, who says people can recover, from both substance abuse, and mental health disorders.
Hullet: Toth conditions are thought to be chronic, when in fat they are not, and people can recover from these conditions and go on to lead healthy lives.”
He says one important factor when confronting someone about a perceived substance abuse or mental health issue , is to avoid using “you” statements, like “I think you have a problem”:
Hullet: "Where if you say I statements, like I notice you’ve been using more alcohol, and im frightened about and worried, that opens the door an actual conversation.”
Dr. Hullet says the idea behind Recovery month is to make people aware they can successfully be treated for their problems. He suggests that people can find help through the National Alliance on Mental Illness. He says they have a Washington chapter, and they are accessible online at www.namiwa.org.
