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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 29, 2008

CONTACT
Jeanne Atkinson, Communications and Legislative Services, (402) 471-8287

DHHS Says to Join the Voices for Recovery

September is Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month

Sound bites on this topic are available at http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/audio/.

Lincoln – For the estimated 136,000 people in our state who suffer from alcohol and drug addiction, asking for help and finding treatment is essential to getting back to a healthy, fulfilling life through recovery.

Each September, Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month promotes the benefits of substance abuse treatment, applauds the contributions of treatment providers, and promotes the message that recovery is possible.

"We want to help people who need treatment to get on a path of recovery so they can regain their lives," said Scot Adams, director of the Division of Behavioral Health in the Department of Health and Human Services. "We want people battling addictions and their families to know that treatment works and leads to positive change for many people."

Over 26,000 people received state-funded substance abuse treatment in Nebraska in FY 2008.

"I encourage people in recovery and their families to find their voice by taking part in local celebrations during Recovery Month," Adams said. "If you know someone who’s battling addiction, listen to what they’re saying and know that there is hope."

For information and referral for you or someone you know, call the Nebraska Treatment Referral Hotline at 1-800-648-4444. A directory of mental health, substance abuse and gambling services can be found at http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/beh/BHDirectory08.pdf

Recovery Month is supported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

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