September is National Recovery Month.

Addiction can happen to anyone. In fact, 1 in 6 Americans experience a substance abuse disorder in their lifetime. It doesn't discriminate; it affects individuals regardless of age, background, socioeconomic status, or career. For many, substance use starts as a way to cope with stress or mental health challenges. In some cases, such as with opioids, addiction can begin after a prescription.

While this is not a "fun" topic, it's an important one. Understanding addiction can help reduce stigma and encourage people to seek support.

What Increases the Risk of Addiction?

There is no single cause of addiction; rather, it can be the result of many intersecting factors:

• Genetics: A family history of addiction or certain gene variations can increase vulnerability.
• Environmental Factors: Trauma, abuse, peer pressure, family dynamics, and cultural norms can play a significant role.
• Individual Factors: Co-occurring mental health conditions, certain personality traits, and a lack of healthy coping mechanisms may lead to faster dependence.

Hollistic Prevention:

A comprehensive approach to wellness can help prevent a substance abuse disorder. Preventative strategies include:

• Developing Healthy Coping Tools: Learn to manage stress in positive ways and seek professional help as needed.
• Building a Supportive Network: Open, honest communication with family and friends creates a foundation for accountability, practical guidance, and emotional support.
• Prioritizing Physical Health: Regular exercise, nutritious meals, quality sleep, and self-care all support mental and emotional balance.

Members have access to complimentary self-care with apps like Calm (Kaiser Permanente), Headspace apps (Blue Shield & Kaiser Permanente), and Sydney (Anthem).

Support for Recovery:

Unfortunately, even with preventative measures, substance abuse disorder can still occur. The good news is that help is available through your health plan benefits.

Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), mental health and substance abuse disorder services are essential health benefits and typically cover a wide range of addiction treatment services such as detoxification, inpatient and outpatient program rehabilitation, and therapy/counseling.

Medical carriers help members navigate their covered benefits, preferred providers, and the claims process. If you're not sure where to start, visit your carrier's member portal or call the customer service number found on your ID card. Many carriers also offer tools to help you connect with support groups, a key part of long-term sobriety.

Anthem Resources:

• Sydney^SM Health: Access plan details, member services, virtual care, and wellness resources.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Convenient and confidential support to help you meet life's challenges at no cost to you. Call 800.999.7222 or access online. 

Blue Shield of California Resources:

• Mental Health Resources: Support for alcohol and drug challenges, including treatment referrals.
• Wellvolution: Access self-guided tools and the Headspace and Headspace Care apps to support mental well-being.
• LifeReferrals 24/7: Free and confidential help for personal, family, and work challenges. Call 800.985.2405 or join online (access code: bsc) anytime to speak with a trained professional.

Kaiser Permanente Resources:

• Mental Health Resources: No referral needed. Get information on available care options and schedule an appointment with a Kaiser Permanente mental health care professional. Dedicated support is also available for individuals struggling with alcohol or drug use.
• Recovery from Drug & Alcohol Addiction: Find support, treatment options, and recovery resources for yourself or a loved one.
• Self-Care & Wellness Tools: Explore digital mental wellness resources, including self-guided programs and helpful articles to support emotional health.

UnitedHealthcare Resources:

• Mental Health Resources: Find a mental health provider online or through theUnitedHealthcare^® app.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Personalized support and resources available at no cost to you. Call 888.887.4114 and press 1. 

If you'd like to learn more, please contact me at:

Jennifer Green
Vice President of Well-being & Engagement
jgreen@venbrook.com 
949.652.6327