IDHS co-sponsors event to celebrate “Recovery Month”

"Recovery Rally on the Rock" encourages people to speak up about mental illness and substance abuse

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois - The Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse is co-sponsoring a special event to celebrate Recovery Month. "Recovery Rally on the Rock" will feature community speakers, live entertainment, food and an alcohol and a drug free environment intended to support people in recovery and draw attention to critical prevention, treatment, and recovery support services.

"Recovery Rally on the Rock" is celebrating its sixth year and will be held on Saturday, September 20 from 11 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Trolley Station on N. Madison St. in Rockford.

Governor Pat Quinn proclaimed September as "Recovery Month" in the state of Illinois to increase awareness and understanding of mental health and substance use disorders. Recovery Month celebrates the continued success of many people in Illinois who have achieved recovery from alcohol and substance addiction and mental illness.

This year's theme, "Join the Voices for Recovery: Speak Up, Reach Out," encourages people to openly discuss - or speak up about - mental and substance use disorders and the reality of recovery. It aims to foster public understanding and acceptance of the benefits of prevention, treatment and recovery from behavioral health conditions.

For more information about Recovery Month, visit www.recoverymonth.gov.