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City of Duluth, Partners Host Recovery Month Event

[Duluth, MN]  The City of Duluth alongside government officials and partners will recognize September as National Recovery Month at a press event on September 4, 2019, at 12:30 p.m. in Civic Center Park outside of City Hall.

“National Recovery Month emphasizes that individuals in recovery and their support systems can be change agents in our communities,” stated Mayor Larson. “It is critical that people experiencing mental and substance use disorders receive the support they need.”

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness organization, approximately 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. (46.6 million) experiences mental illness in a given year. In rural Minnesota, the mental health cases continues to increase. The Minnesota Hospital Association indicated that from 2007 to 2014, there was a 40% increase in emergency room use for mental illness intakes in Northern Minnesota, compared to 34% increase in the Twin Cities.

Mayor Larson will be joined by Saint Louis County Commissioner Frank Jewell and Duluth Police Chief Mike Tusken, in addition to many community partners who will speak about the impact of mental and substance use disorders within Duluth. The event will feature the support of local businesses and organizations that recognize the value of seeking treatment and overcoming mental and substance use disorders.

“It is important that the momentum we’ve established at this event is carried over to tomorrow, and the next day, week, and year,” State Representative Liz Olson said earlier this year. “We all have the potential to make a difference and be visible, vocal, and valuable to help spread the message that recovery is possible.”

The event is a part of Recovery Month, a national observance sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The occasion raises awareness of mental and substance use disorders, celebrates individuals in long-term recovery, and acknowledges the work of prevention, treatment, and recovery support services.

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