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National Wellness Month in August is a national reminder that health is built through consistent, realistic habits. For people recovering from substance use disorders (SUD) and mental health challenges, wellness is not a luxury or a passing trend.

Instead, wellness is a necessity. Also, it is not a luxury, but a necessary reality for everyone, including individuals in marginalized communities. Although someone may face financial hardship, housing instability, or limited access to healthcare, they still need a wellness program to recover.

 At Tarzana Treatment Centers (TTC), we know that recovery works better when patients are given the tools to care for their physical, emotional, and social well-being. However, such tools need to be affordable, practical, and culturally relevant. By combining quality healthcare services with cultural humility, TTC turns National Wellness Month into a healthy reality. 

National Wellness Month Means A Movement for All

National Wellness Month began in 2018 as a grassroots effort to encourage healthier living. Over time, the message has spread far beyond spas and costly wellness centers. Today, public health organizations, schools, and local agencies embrace the mission. Hence, the goal is to build wellness through everyday actions that are accessible to everyone.

Therefore, the focus of this month’s actions aligns hand-in-hand with inclusion. Indeed, wellness is for everyone, regardless of income, background, or circumstance.

As the City of Palo Alto notes, “Social connection plays a vital role in fostering a healthy and thriving community, and we offer many ways to connect together.” Additionally, such a sense of connection is vital for people in recovery, where isolation can be a serious risk factor for relapse. 

Affordable Wellness Strategies for Recovery

Many people assume wellness requires expensive gyms, special diets, or paid classes. At TTC, we know wellness can be built with free or low-cost actions. Here are some strategies we recommend during National Wellness Month and beyond: 

• Stay Hydrated — Keep a reusable water bottle nearby. Water supports brain function, mood, and energy. 

• Improve Sleep Habits — Establish a consistent bedtime and reduce noise or light in your sleeping area. 

• Add Movement to Your Day — A short walk, stretching, or dancing at home can boost both mood and energy. 

• Practice Mindfulness — Even a few minutes of focused breathing can help manage stress. 

• Build Support Networks — Attend free community recovery meetings or call trusted friends. 

• Celebrate Small Wins — Recognize progress, whether it is keeping an appointment or preparing a healthy meal. 

All of these actions can be accomplished without spending any money. Still, they all have a lasting impact when practiced consistently. Thus, a key message during National Wellness Month in October is that Wellness is accessible for everyone!

National Wellness Month in Marginalized Communities 

TTC’s patients often face barriers that go beyond recovery. Indeed, many are navigating unstable housing, low income, caregiving responsibilities, or limited access to healthy food. Such challenges are complex to face daily.

However, we work to remove these barriers by: 

• Connecting patients to housing and food assistance 

• Offering free or low-cost support groups 

• Providing culturally sensitive care tailored to each person’s needs 

• Partnering with local agencies to expand resources 

Additionally, such an approach ensures that wellness strategies are truly possible for each individual. By making low-cost Wellness a priority, TTC opens doors and changes lives. 

Beyond August: Wellness as a Year-Round Commitment 

National Wellness Month may take place in August, but the principles never go away. Thus, they need to be a focus year-round. For people in recovery, wellness is not an event. Instead, it is an ongoing commitment that strengthens resilience, reduces relapse risk, and improves quality of life.  

At TTC, we believe wellness belongs to everyone. Whether you have access to advanced resources or are building health one small habit at a time, you can take meaningful steps toward a healthier future.  

In August of 2025, we invite you to choose one small change and make it part of your routine. Over time, these small steps can lead to significant results—for individuals, families, and communities.