San Diego, California - September is National Recovery Month, a time to increase awareness and understanding of mental and substance use disorders and celebrate the people who have overcome them.

Hundreds of San Diegans will gather in Point Loma to celebrate the efforts and success of people in recovery and applaud treatment and service providers for helping them achieve sobriety.

Recovery Happens will take place Saturday, September 15, 2018 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Liberty Station NTC Park, 2455 Cushing Road. The celebration will feature a recovery countdown, resource fair and fun family activities. The celebration is open to everyone and parking is free.

“The event promotes the shared benefits of prevention and treatment, and helps spread the message that prevention works, treatment is effective and recovery is possible,” said Alfredo Aguirre, director of Behavioral Health Services for the County Health and Human Services Agency.

Recovery Happens is an annual event organized by HHSA, its contracted service providers and other key stakeholders. The event helps to raise awareness and decrease the stigma associated with mental health and substance use disorders. Participants will be joined by families and friends in celebration of those on the road to recovery.

Substance use disorders are a real concern in San Diego County. Last year more than 15,000 people entered publicly funded treatment programs in San Diego County, and nearly 1,000 were under age 17.

Behavioral health is an essential part of overall health and wellness and is a part of Live Well San Diego, the County’s vision to improve the health and well-being of all area residents.

To help people overcome their substance use, the County funds treatment centers throughout the region.

People with substance use disorders, or experiencing a mental health issue, are encouraged to seek help by calling the County’s Access and Crisis Line at (888) 724-7240 or 2-1-1 San Diego.