National Recovery Month

September is National Recovery Month. It is a time to recognize people who are living in recovery from substance use and mental health conditions, and to remind everyone that recovery is possible. Many of our neighbors, friends and family members are on this path. Some of them come to our counter every week.

What recovery means

Recovery looks different for every person. For some it means stopping alcohol or drug use. For others it means managing depression, anxiety or another mental health condition so they can live the life they want. Recovery is not a straight line. There can be hard days and setbacks. That does not erase progress.

Substance use disorder and mental health conditions are health conditions, not character flaws. Treatment works, and support makes a difference.

How a pharmacy can help

Your pharmacist can be part of your support team. We see people regularly, often more often than other providers do, and we treat everyone with respect and privacy. Here are some ways we can help:

• Answer questions about medicines used in treatment, in English or Spanish
• Check for interactions between treatment medicines and your other prescriptions
• Help you set up refills so you do not run out
• Talk with you about naloxone, a medicine that can reverse an opioid overdose
• Share information about local resources and hotlines
• Offer a private space to talk when you need one

Asking for help is a sign of strength. You do not have to explain everything. Just start the conversation.

Supporting someone you love

If someone in your family is struggling, it is natural to feel worried, frustrated or tired. Try to listen without judging. Use kind, simple words. Let them know you care about them as a person. Take care of your own health too. Support groups for families can be a real help.

Keep medicines in your home safe. Store prescription pain medicines and other controlled medicines in a secure place, count them, and dispose of what you no longer need. Ask us about safe disposal options.

Help is available

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. It is free, confidential and available 24 hours a day, with support in Spanish. For substance use treatment referrals, the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 is also free and confidential. In an emergency, call 911.

Recovery Month is a reminder that no one should feel alone. Our team is proud to serve every member of the Antelope Valley community with care and without judgment.

Call us at 661.941.4402 or request a free, private medication review any time.

This article is general education, not medical advice.