Pierce County Invites Public To Share Stories Of Recovery

TACOMA, WA — Pierce County is asking the public to come forward and share their stories of recovery, in an effort to dispel some of the misconceptions around behavioral health treatment.

As part of Recovery Month, all September the county will be taking submissions from residents who have overcome substance abuse disorders or mental health challenges, in the hopes that it might inspire others to begin their path towards recovery.

"Recovery in behavioral health is not always well understood," writes Pierce County Human Services. "Serious mental illness and substance use disorders have a deep and lasting impact on the people it touches. For many, it is the defining experience of their lives. It would be unbearable to think that these experiences are without meaning. Every story of recovery is profoundly important – to the people who have lived it and all humanity."

Organizers say sharing these stories can be one of the best ways to heal, and help others who live with or have family members with a serious behavioral health condition.

Several stories have already been posted to the county's website, including the story of Tyrone, who after years of abuse had been diagnosed with depression and PTSD, but was able to overcome his challenges with the help of the county's Mobile Community Intervention Response Team. His advice for others? Take the time and effort you deserve.

"Be selfish," said Tyrone. "Take the time you need. Find a hobby you love, be your true self, and know there is always hope. Your life is important and you matter."

Back in 2016, a comprehensive study found that Pierce County had greater behavioral health needs than the rest of Washington. County leaders have been working to address the issue in the years since, most recently with the passage of a new behavioral health sales tax. The proposal, which went into effect this July, added 0.1% to sales tax across the county, and helps fund programs like the Mobile Community Intervention Response Team that helped Tyrone.

>> Read more recovery stories from Pierce County.