Addicts are being urged to get treatment for substance abuse this month, which is National Recovery Month.

And Premier Michael Dunkley has pointed out that the wider community can play a vital role in supporting addicts on their road to recovery.

Government’s Department of National Drug Control (DNDC), in partnership with a host of support groups, will be holding a series of events to highlight National Recovery Month, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.

This year’s theme is ‘Join the Voices for Recovery: Speak Up, Reach Out’ which, according to a Ministry spokesman, “represents the many ways that people can prevent behavioural health issues, seek treatment, and sustain recovery as part of a commitment to living a mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually healthy life”.

Premier Dunkley, who is Minister for National Security, said: “Ensuring a stronger and healthier community is a commitment of this Government.

“For 25 years, Recovery Month has served to educate the public about the importance of getting treatment for substance abuse. The anguish and pain of addiction has a significant impact on our community, and Recovery Month serves as a reminder to our residents that treatment options exist here in Bermuda.

“We want to encourage those afflicted to seek the services of substance abuse treatment or mental health treatment by utilising the expertise available at facilities and programmes on the Island.

“This year, to raise the public awareness of Recovery Month, the DNDC has planned a series of events aimed at engaging and educating the community about importance of supporting those who are recovering or who have successfully recovered from a substance dependency.

“I want to take this opportunity to salute our treatment service providers who are on the front lines of helping those who are suffering with addiction and to encourage the public to be supportive of the DNDC’s awareness efforts this month.”

Last year more than 307 addicts sought assistance for substance abuse through the Bermuda Assessment and Referral Centre.

This month’s initiative is supported by the Nelson Bascome Treatment Centre and its partners; BARC, Bermuda Youth Counselling Services, Caron Bermuda, Focus Counselling, Salvation Army Harbour Light Programme, Turning Point, CADA and PRIDE in treatment and prevention.

The month long events range from recovery walks, group barbecues/picnics, media outreach and training events to raise awareness about prevention treatment and recovery support services available locally.

To learn more about substance abuse treatment and prevention, the DNDC’s directory of demand reduction services is available from its office or by visiting www.dndc.gov.bm.