People in recovery from a substance abuse problem will celebrate being drug-free at an event this weekend in De Anza Cove Park.
Recovery: A Community Affair is sponsored by the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) and its many prevention and treatment partners. It is being held during National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month.
The event will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, September 7. It is free and open to the public (no pets will be allowed) and will feature live music, games and resource tables.
“One of the goals of the County’s Live Well, San Diego initiative is to promote a healthy lifestyle, free from alcohol and other drug abuse and this event supports San Diegans who need our help,” said County Board of Supervisors Chairman Greg Cox.
The County’s ongoing initiative to improve the health of residents and communities across the region includes preventing mental illnesses and substance abuse.
“Addiction does not simply affect the individual. Substance abuse affects children and families and entire communities,” said County Supervisor Dave Roberts.
During fiscal year 2011-2012, more than 12,000 people were admitted into County-funded treatment centers. Approximately 10,400 were adults and about 1,600 were 18 years of age and under.
Meth was the primary drug of choice for 32 percent of those who entered treatment, followed by alcohol and marijuana.
Typically, about one third of people who enter treatment complete their program, one third drop out, and one third make some progress toward recovery.
“Improving the health and well-being of residents and communities across the San Diego region includes preventing alcohol and other drug abuse, providing treatment services and addressing emerging drug problems,” said HHSA Director Nick Macchione.
People suffering from problems associated with alcohol or drugs are encouraged to seek help by calling the County’s Access and Crisis Line at (888) 724-7240 or 2-1-1.
