Hi there, my name is Angela Manocha and I am currently a 2nd year resident at WHFM residency program. I grew up in India and around the age of 12, I immigrated to Canada to the land of igloos and people who add “ehh” and “sorry” at the end of every sentence. I went to Saba University School of Medicine, which is located on a tiny island called Saba. My biggest joys in my life currently are hanging out with my nephew who is three years old, watching Parks and Recreation repeatedly, and finding entertaining ways to annoy my hubby.

Did you know that an estimated 21.2 million Americans live with substance use disorder and many as half had co-occurring mental health disorders? Sadly, less than 8% of those with substance use disorder receive the treatment they need. Considering these statistics, you probably know someone fighting addiction.

About 30 years ago, National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month was created in September to “increase awareness and understanding of mental health and substance use disorders and celebrate individuals in recovery, offer hope to those who are struggling, and provide support to the affected families and patient”. The theme this year is: ” Recovery is for Everyone: Every Person, Every Family, Every Community” as a reminder that those who are in recovery, and those who support them, that no one is alone in the journey.

If you or someone you love are living with Substance Use disorder, please reach out to your family physician or any health professional.