September is National Recovery Month. The observance educates the public to the fact that addiction treatment and mental health services can enable those with a mental or substance use disorder to live healthy, rewarding lives. The Pines and Cady Hill Recovery Center in Columbus have mapped out several ways to mark the month and involve the community.
Freezer Pleaser
After its successful debut last year, the Freezer Pleaser Raffle is back. The winner takes home a freezer filled with food.
“Wesley Platt with Financial Works has again donated a big, brand new freezer that local restaurants and staff are filling with all kinds of good eats,” said Martha Wooten of Community Counseling Services. Raffle tickets are $2.50 at The Pines and Cady Hill Recovery Center at 1011 Main St. The drawing will be during a block party Sept. 27, at 5:30 p.m. You do not have to be present to win.
Free assessments
Those in search of treatment at the local counseling services during September will receive free assessments.
“Prior to entering treatment, everyone must complete an assessment with a staff member,” Wooten explained. “In order to show just how dedicated we are to individuals seeking treatment, our staff are performing free assessments, with extended hours.” Slots are filling fast, she added. Interested individuals are urged to make an appointment soon for family members or friends suffering from a substance abuse disorder by contacting Stacey Petty at 662-327-7916.
Back to Basics
Carver Brown with Pine Grove Behavioral Health and Addiction Services in Hattiesburg presents “12 Steps of Recovery: Back to Basics” Sept.18 from 9:30 a.m. to noon as part of Recovery Month activities. Reserve a seat at this free seminar open to the public by calling 662-327-7916. Preregistration is required.
Block party
“Join us Saturday, Sept. 27 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. for family-friendly activities, karaoke and good food as we celebrate individuals who are living sober lives,” Wooten encouraged. Kids and parents will also enjoy a dunking booth, corn hole toss, volleyball, face painting and more at this second annual event at 1011 Main St. in downtown Columbus. Food and fun are free. The party is sponsored by Mitchell Distributing.
“This will be a great way to share in the excitement that is recovery!” Wooten emphasized.
She also announced a new resource for clients.
“We will be the first to offer Recovery Support Services and a checks-and-balances system through a new digital interface downloaded on individual’s phones,” she said. “We will be the first in the state of Mississippi to offer this kind of therapeutic assistance.”
Golden Triangle and surrounding communities are urged to learn more about the work of Community Counseling, The Pines and Cady Hill during Recovery Month, and to take part in the Freezer Pleaser Raffle and block party.
“Help us help others,” Wooten said.
Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.
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