September has been designated as National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, and local officials are encouraging everyone to take part in the nationwide observation.

Recovery from alcohol and drug addiction is a rough road for many. There is a stigmatism to the label of “addict,” which certainly doesn’t help those who have fallen victim to substance abuse.

Many who suffer from alcohol and drug addiction never recover. Some people show denial that they have any problem at all, and others may realize they have a problem, but don’t know how to seek help.

Through tough economic times, alcohol and substance abuse always tend to rise. Studies show that high stress levels are a contributing factor in increased abuse. People use alcohol and drugs to escape from the stress in their lives, only to find that the abuse of substances can only temporarily mask and eventually contribute to their pain.

It takes family, friend and a community as a whole to help addicted individuals to get on the path to a lifelong recovery. It takes a lot of hard work, too.

Too many times, society focuses on the negative aspects of alcohol and drug addiction, but there is a silver lining. Many people find help and are able to recover from their addictions. Because of the hard work and dedication that is necessary for those in recovery, it’s something that is worth celebrating. Those who successfully recover from alcohol and drug addiction to live happy and fruitful lives deserve a tip of the cap. Their success can be very inspiring to others who have taken a turn down the same dark path.

To celebrate National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, Crossroads Counseling Services is holding a recovery rally this Wednesday at Memorial Park in St. Clairsville from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. There, individuals who have overcome obstacles caused by addiction will speak, and everyone will join together to celebrate their success.

Events like these are not only inspirational to those affected by addiction, they also spread the word and educate the public about these serious issues. We applaud those individuals who have inspired others through their own successful recoveries and encourage them to show others support for maintaining sobriety to live long and happy lives.