From the Desk of the County Manager, September 25, 2026
September is National Recovery Month, a time to recognize the recovery process that happens when people, families, communities, and partners come together to support and celebrate progress in recovery from substance use and mental health conditions. If you read last week’s “Here is Durham This Week Online” e-newsletter, you may have seen a mention of it and of a community celebration coming up on September 26.
What is National Recovery Month?
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) presents National Recovery Month every year. This week's theme, “Multiple Pathways to Recovery,” and the theme for September 28-30, “Youth and Family in Recovery for the Future,” are meant to help the families and communities most directly affected by substance use (alcohol and drugs) and mental health conditions. In July 2026, SAMHSA released the 2025 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. The survey tracks trends in alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drug use, rates of mental illness, and recovery. It also highlights solutions and services that can expand access to care.
Behind those statistics are real people: countless faces and loving families working to move beyond the challenges they face. Our compassion, our empathy, and our willingness to help them get the care and services they need without judgment can change their lives.
Durham County’s Commitment and Upcoming Community Event
Durham County and the Durham County Board of Commissioners are committed to providing assistance and investing in solutions that build a better, healthier community for all residents. At the September 14, 2026, meeting, Board Chair Dr. Michael “Mike” Lee recognized National Recovery Month on behalf of the Board and issued a proclamation. Michelle McKinney, a peer support specialist with the Recovery Community of Durham (RCOD), accepted it.
RCOD is a vital resource for Durham. It connects residents facing challenges with training, support, resources, and community, and walks alongside them on their journey toward recovery and a healthier life.
Robert Thomas, chairman of RCOD’s Board of Directors, said: “RCOD provides long-term support and counseling with our Peer Support Specialist, information about resources and referrals as needed, at no cost to our participants. We will host a celebration in support of National Recovery Month on Saturday, September 26, from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m., at 1209 N. Elizabeth Street. We call it a 'celebration' because, despite the stigma, shame, and negative stereotypes, people do recover every day right here in Durham County, and that deserves a celebration,” he said. “SAMHSA’s tagline this year is ‘RECOVERY IS REAL,’ so those who attend should be prepared to be amazed and inspired by real people telling real stories about their recovery, how they maintain their recovery, and what it has meant to themselves and their families. Family-friendly and children’s activities are also planned. We will serve a meal and, of course, line dancing is always a part of our celebration. This event is free and open to the general public.”
Recovery Resources
Always remember: you are not alone. Many resources are available. Along with the Recovery Community of Durham, you can visit these websites for more information:
- Bull City Resource Hub: https://mentalhealth.networkofcare.org/durham-nc
- Oxford House of North Carolina: https://oxfordhousenc.com/
- Alcohol Drug Council of North Carolina: https://www.help4recovery.org/
If you or someone you know is in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. In an emergency, call 911.
Durham is stronger, better and greater when we care for one another and support those on the journey to recovery.
Until next week,
Claudia Hager
Durham County Manager