The University of Lynchburg will host “Voices of Recovery: A facilitated panel discussion on living and thriving in recovery from substance use disorder” at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27, in Schewel Hall’s Sydnor Performance Hall.
The free, public event is held in conjunction with National Recovery Month and sponsored by the University’s Hornets in Recovery program, which launched in January with a $50,000 grant.
According to Dr. Sara Bailey, an assistant professor in the College of Education, Leadership Studies, and Counseling and director of the Hornets in Recovery program, panelists will share their stories of recovery and offer insights into how to “boldly face the stigma of substance use disorders and recovery.”
They’ll also “demonstrate that there’s hope for healing in communities that celebrate the wholeness of and health of all their members.”
Collegiate recovery programs like Lynchburg’s support all students, Bailey added, “whether they’re living in recovery from SUDs, are ‘recovery-curious,’ or care about someone living with an SUD.”
As many as half of college students, according to Bailey, “may meet the diagnostic criteria for a substance use disorder at some point during their college experience.
“Close to 40% of college students engage in binge drinking, and students who use substances are more likely to experience academic difficulties and significant psychiatric and medical dysfunction.”
Bailey added that for students living in recovery, it can be challenging to find support and connection on a college campus.
“A failure to offer culturally responsive opportunities for belonging can further threaten these students’ current and future wellness across all biopsychosocial factors,” she said.
For questions about the event or to learn more about the University’s Hornets in Recovery program, email hornetrecovery@lynchburg.edu or bailey_sw@lynchburg.edu.
