Young adults in recovery / Photo by Getty
September is National Recovery Month — a time to celebrate the millions of Americans in recovery from substance use disorders and to promote the evidence-based treatments, supports, and communities that make recovery possible.
At the Minnesota Department of Human Services, we are privileged to work alongside providers, advocates, people in recovery, and families every day. These partnerships are the heartbeat of our work, and they give us reasons for hope even in the face of daunting challenges.
Recently, I asked three of our staff members what gives them hope about the future of recovery in Minnesota. Their answers, rooted in their own experiences and expertise, offer three powerful perspectives.
Expanding harm reduction and connection
Tina Monje, a leader in our harm reduction work, reminded me that recovery is often sparked by connection — sometimes before someone is ready to think about treatment. She pointed to a growing body of research showing that harm reduction programs don’t just prevent disease and save lives. They also increase the likelihood that people who use drugs will eventually access treatment for substance use disorder and connect with other health and social supports.
Hope in this work isn’t naïve optimism. It’s a grounded belief that change is possible when we invest in what works, center people’s needs, and never give up on someone’s potential.Tina spoke about the recent increase in state funding for harm reduction services in Minnesota, with a particular focus on communities disproportionately affected by opioid overdose deaths. “With these resources,” she said, “we can cast a wider net of care and connection across the state and deepen the networks we already have.”
Her perspective is a reminder that recovery is not a one-size-fits-all journey. By meeting people where they are, we keep the door open for when they are ready to walk through it.
RCOs bridging the gap
Darren Reed has worked extensively with Recovery Community Organizations (RCOs), and he shared how transformative they have been for people leaving treatment. Statistically, most relapses occur within the first 90 days after treatment. In the past, a common recommendation was for people to join recovery support groups in their communities — but these groups don’t always match a person’s needs or style of recovery.
“Now,” Darren told me, “RCOs are in nearly every part of the state, providing peer support, advocacy, and education. They help people find the recovery path that’s right for them, whether that’s 12-step, faith-based, medication-assisted treatment, or something else.”
He added that these organizations are not only reducing the stigma of addiction but also fostering a “recovering out loud” culture — where people in recovery are visible, vocal, and inspiring to those still struggling. This kind of community support can make the difference between slipping back and moving forward.
A holistic approach to health
LaShawnda Bishop is a policy and grant consultant with our Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Primary Prevention and Recovery Team. She told me she is particularly hopeful about the expansion of a holistic, equity-centered continuum of care. This approach considers the whole person — mind, body, and spirit — while also addressing the social determinants of health that so often shape a person’s recovery journey.
“By recognizing and addressing these broader factors,” Lashawnda explained, “we can provide more compassionate and effective care that resonates with people’s lived experiences.” She also emphasized how this approach benefits the next generation, ensuring they’ll know where to turn if life takes a difficult turn.
It’s about more than recovery from substance use disorder — it’s about building healthier, more resilient communities.
Hope as a force for change
Hearing Tina, Darren, and LaShawnda share their reasons for hope left me feeling energized. It reminded me that while substance use disorders continue to take a devastating toll on our state, there are dedicated people working every day to create systems and communities where recovery is possible — and sustainable.
Hope in this work isn’t naïve optimism. It’s a grounded belief that change is possible when we invest in what works, center people’s needs, and never give up on someone’s potential.
This Recovery Month, I invite you to reflect on your own reasons for hope — whether you are in recovery, supporting someone who is, or working in this field. Together, we can create a Minnesota where everyone has the opportunity to find healing, build connection, and live a life of purpose.
Because recovery is real. And with each connection we make, each barrier we remove, and each voice we lift up, we bring that reality closer for more people across our state.
Teresa Steinmetz is assistant commissioner of the Behavioral Health Administration at the Minnesota Department of Human Services.
