For people addicted to drugs and alcohol, taking the first step on the road to recovery may seem impossible. Addiction is a dark and lonely place, with seemingly no way out.

Even for those who admit they have a problem and want to overcome their addictions, the stigma associated with substance abuse can be a barrier to seeking help.

The Department of Children and Families wants to help Floridians with chemical dependency seek treatment. As part of the department's effort to increase public focus on treatment, we observed National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month in September.

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