U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-1st dist.) supports an effort to highlight National Recovery Month in Congress throughout the month of September, including a Congressional Day of Action on September 16.
The effort by the legislators will include virtual and in-person events throughout the month to elevate voices in recovery as well as the Congressional Day of Action, when legislators will lead a virtual “Congress Goes Purple” initiative.
“The opioid crisis has affected every corner of the United States, depriving individuals of full and healthy lives. Fighting against the opioid epidemic and addiction crisis requires a clear and bipartisan approach that responds to the real-world concerns expressed by local lawmakers, community leaders and healthcare professionals across the country,” Fitzpatrick said. “I am proud to join this bipartisan, and bicameral, group of my colleagues to highlight the historic efforts being made throughout National Recovery Month.”
One in seven individuals experience addiction at some point throughout their lifespan, and one in two know someone impacted by addiction.
Numbers from the CDC show that in 2019 more than 70,000 people died of an overdose. Experts expect a record number of deaths in 2020, due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic.
National Recovery Month is held every September to increase awareness for mental health and substance use disorders and encourage those in need of treatment to seek recovery. This year, the theme is “Join the Voices for Recovery: Celebrating Connections,” which focuses on the challenges those in recovery are facing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
