National Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month matters because millions still need care and support. Each January, this national observance shines a light on treatment, recovery, and hope. At Tarzana Treatment Centers (TTC), we have spent decades raising awareness that recovery is real, personal, and possible.

What is Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month?

Every January, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) leads a nationwide effort to educate the public about SUD treatment. According to SAMHSA, the campaign helps people understand “the limitless paths to recovery, the support services that complement treatment, and the importance of having a support system when pursuing recovery.”

Indeed, the message is simple and urgent. Treatment works and support matters. No one has to face recovery alone. From the outset, this has been the message of Tarzana Treatment Centers as well.

Why Awareness Is Urgent Right Now

The numbers explain why National Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month is so critical. SAMHSA reports that 48.4 million people age 12 or older had a substance use disorder in the past year. Yet only about one in five people who needed treatment received it. That gap costs lives, families, and futures.

These facts remind us that stigma, fear, and access barriers still block care. Awareness helps close that gap. Indeed, raising awareness helps to promote recovery and restore families.

Who SUD Treatment Month Supports

National Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month supports people at every stage of the journey. The message is clear and powerful:

1. It speaks to those who are thinking about help.
2. It supports clinicians providing care.
3. It guides families and loved ones seeking answers.

By raising awareness of treatment options, including medications, SAMHSA aims to remove barriers, encourage recovery, and promote early screening and care.

How TTC Advances National Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month

At Tarzana Treatment Centers, this work never pauses. Hence, National Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month is a signpost that points to the road we walk on all year long. Prevention, education, and treatment guide everything we do.

As we explain in Addiction Risk, Genetics, and the Future of Prevention, “genetics can increase vulnerability, but they do not determine destiny.” Therefore, just because a person comes from a family where drinking and substance use are prevalent, it does not mean they are doomed. We know from experience that they can chart their own course in long-term recovery.

However, to chart this course, you need to act. In How To Address the Record Highs of Teen Drug Overdoses in the United States, we emphasize that “early intervention, education, and access to care save lives.” These principles guide our integrated care for youth, adults, and families across Los Angeles County.

How You Can Help During SUD Treatment Month

You can take part. Share SAMHSA social posts. Talk openly about recovery. Encourage someone who is struggling. Small actions create real change. For example, you can visit the official SUD Treatment Month digital toolkit for resources and shareable content.

A Shared Responsibility

National Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month reminds us that recovery grows through connection. Awareness leads to action. Action saves lives. At Tarzana Treatment Centers, we stand with our community this January and every month. Treatment works. Recovery is possible. Help is here. Please contact us today to learn more.