By Star Journal Staff

Mental health and substance use disorders affect all communities, people from all walks of life and all age groups.

National Recovery Month is celebrated each September to recognize the gains made by those in recovery. This year’s theme is “Recovery is for Everyone: Every Person, Every Family, Every Community.”

Partners in Oneida County are working to improve the use of the recovery support services available in the community; all are invited to attend the free “Light Up the Night for Recovery” outdoor event 2-7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 23, at Hodag Park.

The family-friendly event will include a community resource fair, refreshments, guest speakers at 5 p.m., prizes and games and a lantern lighting at 6 p.m. The aim is to celebrate individuals and families in recovery and to increase awareness of local resources. For more information on the event in Rhinelander, call or text Jenny Chiamulera at 715-490-4180.

A Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration survey reported 19.3 million adults in the U.S. experience substance use disorders. Of these adults, 9.5 million had both a substance use disorder and a mental illness.

Local recovery support and treatment services can be found by calling Wisconsin 211, by dialing 211, texting your zip code to 898211, or visit 211wisconsin.communityos.org. The Tri-County Crisis Number is 888-299-1188, or text 741-741.

Partnering for the event are Northwoods Tobacco Free Coalition, Nicolet College, Rhinelander Police Department, COPE coalition and Oneida County Health Department.