The Vermont Association for Mental Health and Addiction Recovery

11/21/2025

Recovery doesn’t follow a straight line, and the data shows it.
People thrive when we give them choice, autonomy, and support without judgment.

💬 Multiple pathways to recovery
💬 Connection reduces relapse risk
💬 Positive experiences improve long-term outcomes
💬 Peer support continues to be one of the most effective tools we have

Behind every number is a person with strengths, dreams, and a story that deserves compassion and respect.

11/20/2025

It's a Thursday Social Media Takeover!

This is Daniel, and it's my honor to take this moment to celebrate our beloved friend and colleague Martina Anderson. On November 6 Martina was recognized as a VermontBiz Rising Star (40 under 40). In nominating Martina, it was a privilege to share not just Martina's outstanding work as a professional in capacities at our The Vermont Association for Mental Health and Addiction Recovery, Vermont CARES, and elsewhere, but also her deep humanity, fierce advocacy, compassion, and loving and generous nature. If a team or an organization is one body, Martina would be the heart. ♥️
She brings heart to her work day in and day out, articulating the values and mission that guides us and how we serve others not only with skill but with a compass and a light that shows the way for us all.

38 | Director of Communication, VAMHARResidence: Washington Career Highlights: Helping launch a hyper low-barrier buprenorphine program during my time at Vermont CARES. At first, I was hesitant as I never wanted people coming to the Syringe Service Program to feel pressured into treatment or risk th...

11/19/2025

🚨 Another New Training Alert: Understanding Co-Occurring Disorders (3 CEUs)

Dive into evidence-based approaches for supporting people with both mental health and substance use disorders — including DBT, CBT, MI, integrated care, and more.

➡️ Start learning today: vamhar.learnupon.com

11/18/2025

🚨 New Training Available!
Understanding Poly-Substance Use - with a focus on Vermont’s rise in fentanyl + co***ne overdose deaths.

Learn practical, evidence-based harm reduction strategies for stimulant–opioid mixes.
Your knowledge can save lives.

➡️ Your next step starts here: vamhar.learnupon.com

11/17/2025

Here in Vermont, we look out for one another.
Harm reduction isn’t just a strategy - it’s compassion in action, and it keeps our neighbors alive. Harm reduction means meeting people where they’re at with tools, love, and zero judgment. Together, we can save lives and build connection - one conversation, one resource, one moment at a time. When we are all in this together, our neighbors have a real chance to heal and thrive.

Thank you Good Neighbor Health Clinic & Red Logan Dental Clinic for all you do for your community! We are so thrilled to be working with you!

11/14/2025

In Vermont, community care looks like this:

• Food shelves that also host peer recovery circles.
• Warming shelters offering harm reduction supplies.
• Employers joining the Recovery-Friendly Workplace movement to create jobs that heal, not harm.

These programs meet basic needs and human needs - together.

This is what systems change looks like: compassion in action, neighbors supporting neighbors, and a belief that everyone deserves safety, connection, and dignity.

Join us in sustaining this work. Be part of the movement that builds the foundation for hope. vamhar.org/donate

11/13/2025

Vermont’s latest Social Autopsy Report and the State of Mental Health in America 2025 report tell a shared story: Vermonters are trying to get help, but too often, the systems meant to support them are disconnected.

At VAMHAR, we’re listening deeply to what the data shows and turning it into action: new trainings, stronger partnerships, and community spaces that move us from scarcity to shared care.

Together, we can build a Vermont where connection saves lives. Read our full reflection in the latest newsletter. Sign up here:

Want to receive VAMHAR's Newsletter? Sign Up Here

11/12/2025

Recovery doesn’t start in a clinic. It starts with safety, food, shelter, and belonging.

In 2024, 1 in 3 Americans struggled to meet a basic need - from housing to food to utilities.

And when those needs go unmet:
• People are 3x more likely to experience depression or anxiety.
• Rates of substance use and relapse rise sharply in communities facing housing or food insecurity.

At VAMHAR, we see it every day: meeting basic needs is mental health care. Stability isn’t a privilege, it’s a prerequisite for healing.

We must build systems that meet people where they are, and ensure everyone has what they need to recover, rebuild, and thrive.

11/11/2025

Today, we honor those who have served — and continue to serve — our country with courage and heart.

At VAMHAR, we also recognize that for many Veterans, the journey doesn’t end when service does. Healing from trauma, finding connection, and accessing support for mental health and substance use are ongoing battles that no one should fight alone.

To all Veterans in recovery, in struggle, or in service to others:
We see you. We thank you. We stand with you. 💙

If you or someone you love is a Veteran in need of support:
📞 Call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line.

11/09/2025

Rest is resistance. Rest is recovery. Rest is your right.
Take today to slow down and honor the work your mind and body have done this week.

What’s your favorite way to rest and recharge?

11/08/2025

Okay, honesty hour. What’s your emotional weather today?
☀️ Clear and calm
🌤 Trying your best
🌧 Heavy, but showing up
⛈ Need some love
Wherever you’re at, you belong here.
Drop your emoji below — no explanations required.