Celebrating Leadership and Progress: The Importance of SAMHSA's STAR Awards

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has established the Trailblazers in Advancing Recovery (STAR) Awards to honor leaders in recovery who have made significant contributions to promoting awareness and wellness for mental health and substance use conditions (SAMHSA). These awards are a powerful way to recognize the dedication and impact of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to advance recovery-oriented services and supports. It's high time we shine a spotlight on those who have been pouring their hearts and souls into this crucial work!

Save the Date: Tuesday, September 24, 2024, 1 - 3:30 p.m. ET

You will be able to join the live stream of this event on this page on the day of the event.

Why the STAR Awards Matter

Awards like the STARs hold immense importance within the mental health field. They provide a platform to highlight exceptional work, innovative approaches, and the profound difference being made by those with lived experience (Psychiatry.org). By acknowledging outstanding contributions, these awards inspire further excellence and motivate others to strive for similar positive change. They also spotlight the critical role that individuals with lived experience of mental health and/or substance use conditions play in shaping effective recovery supports (PA Providers). Let's be real - seeing people who have walked in your shoes leading the way is a powerful catalyst for hope and action.

Recognition through awards such as the STARs also plays a crucial role within the recovery community. Celebrating milestones and successes, no matter how small, can greatly bolster an individual's confidence and sense of accomplishment (Conifer Park). Moreover, acknowledgment from a prestigious organization like SAMHSA can help reduce stigma by emphasizing the valuable work of peer support workers, family members, and organizations dedicated to recovery. It reinforces that recovery is possible and that those with lived experience are integral to the provision of compassionate and effective care. This is about more than just a pat on the back - it's about creating a system that truly sees and values the recovery community.

The STAR Awards Ceremony and Categories

The inaugural STAR Awards ceremony will take place on September 24, 2024, featuring a virtual exhibition of art by talented individuals in recovery (SAMHSA). Awards will be presented in several categories:

Equity Champion of the Year

Young Adult Leader of the Year Peer Support Worker of the Year

Advocate of the Year

Family Leader of the Year

Wellness Champion of the Year

Innovator of the Year

Supporting the STAR Awards and Recovery Leadership

As professionals in the field of addiction treatment, it is essential that we support initiatives like the STAR Awards. By celebrating these trailblazers, we reinforce the importance of recovery-oriented approaches, peer support, and the inclusion of lived experience in our work. We also send a powerful message that the voices and contributions of individuals with lived experience are invaluable in shaping a mental health and substance use system that truly supports recovery. This isn't just about giving out awards - it's about building a system that puts recovery first.

Tune in to the STAR Awards ceremony to be inspired by the stories of these leaders and reflect on how their work aligns with and informs your own efforts. Consider nominating deserving individuals or organizations for future awards to further elevate their contributions. Let's come together to honor those advancing recovery and promote a system of care that values the power of lived experience and peer support. It's time to roll up our sleeves and build a system that is worthy of those it serves.

Resources:

SAMHSA STAR Awards