WHEREAS, every day, many Alaskans prove that recovery from alcohol and substance use disorders is possible. At the same time, many more continue to struggle with addiction; and
WHEREAS, addiction to alcohol and other drugs can trap anyone, from our neighbors to our loved ones and even ourselves. Substance abuse shatters relationships between family members, replaces self-sufficiency with dependency, depletes our workforce of talent, and riddles communities with violence and disorder; and
WHEREAS, alcohol and drug addiction are a public health threat in Alaska, but with proper support from family, friends, and the community, those affected can recover; and
WHEREAS, when our community members are struggling with addiction and are unable to get the help they need, our State suffers. We must provide support and compassion for relatives, friends, and fellow Alaskans with substance use disorders, recognize the signs of a problem, and guide those in need to appropriate treatment and recovery support services; and
WHEREAS, we recognize and honor the service of our first responders, healthcare providers, and all family, friends, and advocates striving against addiction; and
WHEREAS, to help more people achieve and sustain long-term recovery, the State of Alaska, the Federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy invite all Alaskans to participate in National Recovery Month.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Michael J. Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim September 2019 as:
Recovery Month
in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to have compassion for those who are struggling with addiction; to foster an open, honest, and supportive dialogue about the effects of substance abuse in their communities; and to support programs that improve the circumstances for fellow Alaskans striving for recovery.
