CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), Office of Drug Control Policy (ODCP) joins partners nationwide in recognizing September as National Recovery Month. This observance promotes evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, celebrates the nation’s recovery community, and acknowledges the service providers and communities that make recovery possible.
“Recovery Month is an important time to celebrate the strength and resilience of West Virginians on the path to recovery,” said Dr. Stephen Loyd, Director of DoHS Office of Drug Control Policy. “We are committed to increasing access to life-saving resources, enhancing community support, and reducing the stigma associated with substance use disorders.”
ODCP encourages residents to share resources like the 1-844-HELP4WV helpline and to participate in events occurring throughout the month.
“Recovery is not only possible, it’s happening every day,” said Alex Mayer, Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Human Services. “I encourage West Virginians to attend Recovery Month events, connect with resources, and support families and neighbors on their journey. Together, we can build healthier communities.”
Key Events
- Aug. 31 – West Virginia’s Overdose Awareness Day and Mobilize Recovery’s Campus Surge 2025 Kick-Off, 4–7 PM, University of Charleston, Charleston
- ODCP Community Conversations will be held to gather feedback for the 2026 West Virginia Substance Use Response Plan:
- In-Person
- Sept. 9 – 3:45–5:15 PM – Embassy Suites, Charleston
- Sept. 11 – 6–8 PM – Word of Life Church, Logan
- Sept. 15 – 4–6 PM – Eastern WV Community & Technical College, Moorefield
- Sept. 16 – 4–6 PM – Wheeling University, Wheeling
- Virtual
- In-Person
- Aug. 27 – 10 AM–12 PM
- Sept. 3 – 1–3 PM
- Sept. 5 – 1–3 PM
- Sept. 8 - National 988 Day
- Sept. 9 – Peer Recovery Support and Recovery Housing Conference, Embassy Suites, Charleston
- Sept. 18–20 – Appalachian Addiction and Prescription Drug Abuse Conference, Embassy Suites, Charleston
- Sept. 24–26 – West Virginia State Medical Association Health Care Leadership Summit, The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs
“This is a time to recognize progress, learn from those who have found hope and healing, and work together to improve access to care and support for individuals and families affected by substance use disorder,” said Christina Mullins, DoHS Deputy Secretary of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders.
For more information about recovery resources, and support services in West Virginia, visit the Office of Drug Control Policy’s website at odcp.wv.gov.
