#AmplifyRecovery: 10-Day Challenge for Educating & Amplifying Voices on Substance Use Impact

Jul 19, 2024 | Recovery Advocacy

In the lead-up to Overdose Awareness Day in August (and our ceremony honoring loved ones we’ve lost), and National Recovery Month in September, we invite you to join our “Challenge for Educating and Amplifying Voices on Substance Use Impact.”

This 10-day challenge aims to break the stigma surrounding substance use disorder (SUD) by encouraging open conversations, sharing personal stories, and fostering a supportive community.

The challenge offers two versions: one for those directly impacted by SUD and another for those less familiar with the issue.

Sharing Version 2 Tactfully

When sharing this challenge with those unfamiliar with or critical of SUD, approach the conversation with empathy and respect. Highlight the importance of understanding substance use as a health issue rather than a moral failing. Share personal stories or data that illustrate the widespread impact of SUD, emphasizing the importance of compassion and support in fostering recovery. Encourage them to participate in the challenge to gain a deeper understanding and help create a more supportive community.

Version 1: Amplifying Voices for Recovery Advocacy

Goal: Amplify the voice for recovery advocacy.

Day 1-2: Introduction to Recovery Advocacy

Day 3-4: Sharing Personal Stories

  • Activity: Watch a video or read a story about someone’s recovery journey.
  • Action: Start drafting your own story, including challenges, turning points, and moments of hope.

Day 5-6: Engaging with the Community

  • Activity: Join an online recovery support group or forum.
  • Action: Share a part of your story and offer support to others in the group.

Day 7: Amplifying Your Voice

  • Activity: Learn about different platforms to share your story (social media, blogs, local events).
  • Action: Choose one platform and share a part of your recovery journey or your perspective on substance use.

Day 8-9: Advocating for Policy Change

  • Activity: Research local or national policies affecting substance use recovery.
  • Action: Write to a local representative or sign a petition advocating for better recovery support services.

Day 10: Story Compilation

  • Activity: Gather the parts of your story you’ve shared or written over the week.
  • Action: Compile them into a cohesive narrative and consider sharing it on a blog, social media, or with a local advocacy group.

Version 2: Education Opportunity

Goal: Learn about SUD and its impact, and present how to support recovery advocacy.

Day 1-2: Introduction to Substance Use

Day 3-4: Understanding the Impact

  • Activity: Watch documentaries or read articles about the effects of substance use on individuals and families.
  • Action: Write a summary of what you learned and how it changed your perspective.

Day 5-6: Personal Stories and Empathy

  • Activity: Read or watch personal recovery stories.
  • Action: Reflect on how these stories made you feel and what you learned about the struggles and successes in recovery.

Day 7: Engaging in Dialogue

  • Activity: Have a conversation with someone affected by substance use, if possible.
  • Action: Share what you’ve learned and listen to their experiences, respecting their boundaries and confidentiality.

Day 8-9: Learning About Recovery Support

  • Activity: Research different types of support services available for individuals in recovery (counseling, support groups, rehab programs).
  • Action: Create a list of resources and share it with your community or on social media.

Day 10: Understanding Policy and Advocacy

  • Activity: Read about current policies affecting substance use and recovery support.
  • Action: Write a summary of a policy you find important and why it matters.

Join us in this challenge to educate, amplify voices, and foster a compassionate and supportive environment for those impacted by substance use disorder.

Together, we can make a difference and pave the way for a more understanding and inclusive society.

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