To support those who are in the recovery phase of mental health crises or substance abuse, Carbon County is banding together to talk about ways people can help.

Last week, the Carbon County Commissioners named September as National Recovery Month in the county and urged residents to help change the stigma by celebrating those on their recovery journey.

“Recovery Month spreads the message that behavioral health is essential to one’s overall health and wellness, and that prevention works, treatment is effective and people recover,” the proclamation stated.

Chief Public Defender Paul Levy spoke about the importance of breaking through the stigma of addiction and mental health issues and supporting those who are taking the steps to recover from that issue.

“Talking about it is a way to destigmatize those issues,” he said, noting that since taking over the department, he has been trying to focus on people suffering from mental health issues and getting them the help they need.

As a way to celebrate and bring awareness, Levy said that the county will hold a Rafting for Recovery event on Sunday at Pocono Whitewater, 1519 State Route 903 in Jim Thorpe.

The rafting portion begins at 9:45 a.m. and tables with information about programs that are available and speakers will take place following the rafting trip.

All ages are welcome. The cost is $60 per person. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for people who do not want to raft, but would like to pay for someone to raft. To book a spot, call 570-325-3654. Anyone who is paying to sponsor someone who is rafting, the code number is 552311.

“It’s an outreach so that people can recognized the things that we’re doing and the things that we can do to celebrate those who are doing it,” Levy said. “I’m really excited about it, and it’s my hope that it’s the first of many events.”