Mr. Speaker, in our ongoing commitment to strengthen social programmes that benefit the Bermuda community, I would like to highlight that the Ministry of National Security, through the Department for National Drug Control (DNDC), joins communities globally in recognizing September as National Recovery Month.
Mr. Speaker, the 36th Annual Recovery Month, led by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) in the USA since 1989, is observed every September to acknowledge the progress achieved by individuals in recovery from substance use disorders. The month also advocates for and supports innovative treatment and recovery practices, celebrates the robust and proud recovery community, and recognizes the commitment of service providers and communities that facilitate recovery in all its forms. This year's theme, "Recovery is REAL (Restoring Every Aspect of Life),” underscores the notion that with appropriate treatment, support, and resources, recovery is attainable. Recovery Month particularly honors those overcoming challenges related to substance use disorders, which encompass drugs, alcohol, and other addictive behaviors, and it pays tribute to the resilience of individuals and families on this journey.
Mr. Speaker, this year, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is concentrating on young individuals with substance use disorders or those in recovery, emphasizing the impact that real conversations can have in facilitating their access to assistance and support. You may remember that the Throne Speech 2024 emphasized the need to re-establish a dedicated Adolescent Substance Abuse Treatment Program under the direction of the DNDC. Efforts are currently in progress to put this program into action.
Mr. Speaker, in anticipation of this year’s recovery month, the DNDC formed a committee chaired by the Treatment Officer, comprising representatives from: Turning Point (Bermuda Hospitals Board), FOCUS Counselling and Transitional Living, Harbour Light (Salvation Army), Pathways, Right Living House (Department of Corrections) and Bermuda Addictions Certification Board (BACB). This committee collaborated to organize multiple community-oriented events in honor of Recovery Month.
The events begin with the BACB-sponsored Substance Abuse Professional of the Year Awards Ceremony, which recognizes individuals who deliver exceptional care and support in the field of substance abuse treatment. The Committee has organized a Recovery Barbeque Fun Day, to honor and recognize individuals who have embraced recovery for their strength and perseverance. Additionally, an event is planned that will feature bowling and karaoke for those who are currently receiving treatment services.
Mr. Speaker, the Department of Corrections (DOC) will commemorate Recovery Month with various events, such as a barbecue picnic honoring current and past residents of the Right Living House, including those who have provided support. Later in the month, the DOC will host a graduation ceremony for inmates who have demonstrated a commitment to positive transformation through substance abuse recovery and rehabilitation.
Mr. Speaker, our community partner agencies are also organizing events. Some of the upcoming events are as follows:
Community Education Group
Date: Thursday, September 18, 6pm
Location: Pathways Bermuda, 61 Verdmont Road, Smith’s, FL02
Title: Ripples of Addiction-The Impact on Families and Support Networks
This event is open to the public
This event is open to the public
Pathways Bermuda Open House
Date: Thursday, September 25, 9am – 5pm
Location: Pathways Bermuda, 61 Verdmont Road, Smith’s, FL02
This event is open to the public
FOCUS Counselling Services and Transitional Living, TAG Day Date: Friday, September 19th Location: various sites throughout the island.
Turning Point Treatment Services and Detox will host a Recovery Celebration and Memorial Moment for clients and stakeholders later in the month. This event will celebrate the recovery efforts of current clients, while remembering those lives lost to the disease of addiction.
Mr. Speaker, the Government of Bermuda offers treatment for both men and women through the Nelson Bascome Substance Abuse Treatment Centre located in Dockyard. The Centre provides residential and outpatient programmes for individuals facing challenges with drug and alcohol dependence, in addition to facilitating access to a network of prevention and recovery services across the island.
Mr. Speaker, numerous individuals and families in Bermuda have endured suffering in silence or shame due to the effects of substance abuse, however; recovery is both real and attainable. It is essential to raise awareness to remind our community that seeking help carries no shame, and every person in recovery is entitled to dignity, compassion, and support. Recovery Month serves as a crucial opportunity to dismantle the stigma that frequently accompanies substance use.
Mr Speaker, I commend the DNDC, the Department of Corrections and our community partners for their dedication to assisting individuals in creating new lives. Recovery encompasses more than just abstaining from substances; it involves the restoration of all facets of life – health, family, dignity, and hope. I especially encourage those who are struggling to recognize that they are not alone, and that help is available.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.