Each September, the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) joins organizations across the country in recognizing National Recovery Month — an annual observance dedicated to increasing awareness around mental health and substance use recovery.

This month serves as a powerful reminder to reduce stigma, celebrate the strength and resilience of individuals in recovery, and inspire hope throughout our communities. Here in Fairfax and Falls Church, we proudly stand with the national recovery movement to promote understanding and affirm that recovery is possible for everyone.

Actions to Support and Sustain Recovery

Recovery is a journey, not a destination. For those in recovery, maintaining progress requires consistency, self-awareness and community support. Here are some critical actions, outlined by the CSB’s clinical team, to reinforce your path:

1. Build a Strong Support Network: Surround yourself with people who uplift, encourage and hold you accountable. Consider connecting with a recovery coach or joining a local peer support group like those offered by the CSB.

2. Establish Healthy Routines: Prioritize habits that center around your mental and physical health. The CSB promotes wellness through tools such as mindfulness workshops and skills-building groups. Sign up for a class today!

3. Learn About Relapse Prevention: Stay connected to your treatment program or therapist, and take advantage of educational resources. The CSB offers relapse prevention strategies through its Substance Use Recovery Services.

4. Practice Self-Compassion: Recovery is not always a straight line. Setbacks are common but can be reframed as learning moments alongside proper support.

Ways to Support Someone Battling Mental Health or Substance Use Challenges

Whether a loved one is just beginning their recovery journey or actively seeking wellness, your support can make a meaningful difference.

1. Listen Without Judgment: Giving space for your loved one to share openly can be transformative.

2. Encourage Professional Help: You can help connect loved ones to services like our Detoxification and Stabilization Programs.

3. Support with Boundaries: Balancing compassion with accountability is key. Offer support without enabling behaviors that may interfere with recovery.

4. Stay Informed: Participate in Mental Health First Aid training hosted by the CSB to better understand how to help in a crisis.

Mark Your Calendar: Celebrate National Recovery Month with Us

Join the CSB for upcoming events in honor of Recovery Month:

Wellness Resource Fair: Pathways to Recovery

Join us for a dynamic resource fair, offering a wealth of local services and support to guide you on your wellness journey.

When: September 19, 2025 – 2:00 p.m.
Where: Gum Spring Community, 8100 Fordson Road, Alexandria, VA 22306

Virtual Opioid Overdose & Naloxone Education Training

Learn how to save a life in cases of opioid overdose by attending this free naloxone training session.

When: Multiple offerings throughout the year

Spread Awareness in Your Own Networks

Share this story or links to CSB resources within your networks. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) also offers a toolkit with resources to learn more and share hopeful messages.

CSB Resources for Recovery and Wellness

The road to recovery may have challenges but support is always available. The CSB offers a variety of resources to meet you or a loved one where you are:

• If you or someone you know is experiencing a substance use crisis, call the Fairfax Detoxification Center 24/7 at 703-502-7000, TTY 703-322-9080.

• For emergency mental health or substance use services, walk-in services are available 24/7 at the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health or call 703-573-5679 TTY 711.

• For CSB Non-Emergency Behavioral Health Services, call CSB Entry & Referral at 703-383-8500 TTY 771, Monday-Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You may also walk-in at the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and Friday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Not sure where to begin? Call our Entry & Referral Services at 703-383-8500 to speak with someone who can help connect you to the right resources.