WHEREAS, the National Recovery Month theme this September 2022 is “Recovery is For Everyone: Every Person, Every Family, Every Community,” reminding people in recovery and those who support them, that no one is alone in their journey through recovery. Everyone’s journey is different, but we are all in this together; and
WHEREAS, mental health substance use disorder affects all communities nationwide, and with commitment and support, those impacted can embark on a journey of improved health and overall wellness; and
WHEREAS, the impact of mental health and substance use disorder is apparent in our nation’s community, and 70% of users who try an illegal drug before age 13 develop a substance use disorder within the next 7 years, compared to 27% of those who try an illegal drug after age 17; and
WHEREAS, since the inception of the CNMI’s Blue-Ribbon Initiative in 2020, a consortium of public and private entities, the CHCC Community Guidance Center’s Addiction Services Unit has seen a 60% increase in the number of referrals for intensive outpatient services. Through this community-based initiative, there is increased marketing, promotion, training, and prevention activities. This collective impact model is highly effective, and our island communities are better informed about mental health and substance use disorders. As a resilient community, we will strive to reduce stigma and ultimately provide a brighter path for hope and healing; and
WHEREAS, the HOPE Recovery Center, as the CNMI’s sole substance abuse residential treatment provider, reports that the greatest intake for services are self-referrals at 53% and aims to promote and support evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, the emergence of a strong and proud recovery community, and the dedication of service providers and community members across the Commonwealth, who make recovery in all its forms possible; and
WHEREAS, through Recovery Month, people become more aware and able to recognize the signs of mental health and substance use disorders and encourage people in need of recovery services for mental health and substance use disorders to seek help. Managing the effects of these conditions helps individuals achieve healthy lifestyles, both physically and emotionally; and
WHEREAS, the Recovery Month observance continues to work to improve the lives of those affected by mental health and substance use disorders by raising awareness and educating communities about the effective services that are available. Recovery Month spreads the message that people can and do recover every day.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, RALPH DLG. TORRES, Governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and Laws of the Commonwealth, do hereby proclaim September 2022 as
NATIONAL RECOVERY MONTH IN THE CNMI
This month, we renew our commitment to helping the people that are going through these challenges. Every single day is another chance at life, and another chance to make things better. We must continue the work of supporting our loved ones, neighbors, and friends struggling here in the CNMI. To our people in need, you are not alone. Whatever your struggle is, there are people out there willing to help. Together, with the right treatment and the strength of our community, we can move forward with healing and recovery.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand on this 7th day of September 2022.
/s/
RALPH DLG. TORRES
Governor
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