III
117th CONGRESS
2d Session
S. RES. 778
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
September 20, 2022
Mr. King (for himself, Mrs. Capito, Mr. Manchin, and Mr. Luján) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to
RESOLUTION
Supporting the designation of September 2022 as National Recovery Month
.
Whereas the theme for National Recovery Month in 2022 is Every Person. Every Family. Every Community.
;
Whereas more than 107,000 individuals in the United States suffered a fatal alcohol or drug overdose during 2021, an increase of almost 15 percent as compared to 2020;
Whereas, during the COVID–19 pandemic, increased isolation and reduced access to treatment programs contributed to an increase in individuals reporting anxiety and depression disorders as compared to 2019, with 13 percent of individuals in the United States reporting starting or increasing substance use during 2020;
Whereas, in 2020, there were approximately 21,000,000 individuals in the United States aged 18 or older in recovery from alcohol or drug addiction;
Whereas, in 2018, it was estimated that the total cost to the economy of the United States of prescription opioid misuse, including the costs of healthcare, lost productivity, and involvement of the criminal justice system, is $78,500,000,000 annually, and that figure has grown as a result of the COVID–19 pandemic;
Whereas trauma is a risk factor for substance use disorder, and there is a strong link between adverse childhood experiences or traumatic events and experiencing substance use disorder later in life;
Whereas individuals with substance use disorder may face stigma from health professionals, as well as from friends and family;
Whereas it has been demonstrated that stigma can be a barrier to accessing treatment and engaging in recovery for individuals with substance use disorder; and
Whereas peer-supported communities offer individuals with substance use disorder better success in recovery by addressing the personal and emotional effects of addiction and easing reintegration: Now, therefore, be it
That the Senate—
recognizes the importance of education for the prevention of substance use disorder;
acknowledges that factors such as increased social isolation, mental distress, and reduced access to substance use disorder treatment during the COVID–19 pandemic have contributed to an increase in the number of deaths related to substance use disorder;
supports efforts to explore the means by which integrated care, community, and sense of purpose can lead to effective and sustainable treatment of substance use disorder;
shows appreciation and gratitude for family members, friends, and other individuals who support individuals in recovery from substance use disorder; and
supports the designation of September 2022 as National Recovery Month
.