September is a busy month. It’s full of national observances aiming to educate Americans about a variety of topics. However, CADS is focusing its attention this month on National Pain Awareness Month, National Suicide Prevention Month and National Recovery Month. With all these observances happening simultaneously, it can be overwhelming to ensure you give all these communities the support and attention they deserve.

Social media has become a hub for advocacy: you connect with people across the globe, share resources easily, and spark positive conversation all with the click of a button. This is why CADS came up with a few tips to help you show support this September.

Ways to Show Up This September:

1. Listen

National observances are meant to spread awareness and to educate, but they are also meant to amplify and validate the voices of those affected.

• Listen to the experiences of those who have been affected by these issues to learn about what it’s like to live with mental health and substance abuse disorders.

2. Learn

Knowledge is power. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, suicidal thoughts or the recovery process, learn about these topics, find resources and research how you can help or get help. It could be life-saving!

• Read up on relevant resources to educate yourself and others on how to support these communities.
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3. Share Your Support

Showing your support on social media doesn’t always have to be a public declaration, you can . . .

• Share an educational article, post, or video about these mental health and substance abuse issues.
• Participate in the comments section or spark up a conversation in person to spread awareness.
• Donate to charities or organizations you like or find helpful.

4. Open Up

If you or a loved one have been struggling with mental health or substance abuse, now could be the time to talk about it.

• Start a conversation about how you are feeling and what struggles you’re facing.
• Share your personal experiences to help destigmatize these conditions and normalize seeking help.

5. Get Involved

Take action. Absorb what you’ve learned and apply it to the real world.

• Talk with your friends and families about what you’ve learned.
• Volunteer with local advocacy groups or nonprofits.
• Use the information you’ve learned to get yourself the help and resources you need.

Showing up on social media this September helps spread life-changing information regarding mental health and substance abuse conditions. It also shows your loved ones, who you may not know are struggling with these issues, that you support them and their journey to recovery.