StartYourRecovery

StartYourRecovery Profile and History

StartYourRecovery.org offers relatable information for people who are dealing with substance use issues - and their family members, friends, and co-workers, too. We know that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to the challenges faced by those who misuse alcohol, prescription or illegal drugs, or other substances, and we aim to break through the clutter to help people at any stage of recovery. Our goal is to offer people who are dealing with substance use issues a single source of reputable, objective information about signs, symptoms, conditions, treatment options, and resources - presented in a user-friendly format and in language that's easy to understand. First we asked: "Why doesn't someone offer access to these resources in one place? Then we asked: "Why don't we?" This site is the result of collaboration among clinicians and experts from research institutions and Reingold - a leader in creating mental health communications and outreach campaigns that promote awareness and help-seeking. Working with mental and behavioral health experts, Reingold has helped dozens of nonprofits and government agencies inform people about substance use issues, suicide prevention, and related conditions. StartYourRecovery.org uses evidence-based methods to encourage people to find the support they need, or to help their loved ones encourage and support help-seeking. The information on this website represents current consensus-based knowledge from the field and has been carefully vetted by our team of mental and behavioral health experts: Ellen L. Edens, M.D., co-director of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Connecticut Opioid Reassessment Clinic, staff psychiatrist with the VA Connecticut Healthcare System, and assistant professor of psychiatry at Yale University School of Medicine Marc Fishman, M.D., medical director with Maryland Treatment Centers and assistant professor of psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine E.J. Smith, M.S., NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor and Advocate in private practice and a member of the Military Family Advisory Network's advisory board. Nhat Nguyen, MSW, substance abuse counselor and clinical supervisor with the Fairfax - Falls Church Community Services Board We hope this website is an easy way to learn about substance use and addiction and to determine your next step, whether it's having a conversation, learning more, or seeking professional help. While we cannot diagnose or treat mental health conditions, we can say with confidence: Help is available, and treatment works.