At Bel Aire Recovery Center, National Overdose Awareness Day holds deep significance for both staff and clients, serving as a time to honor those who have lost their lives to addiction while bringing awareness to those still struggling. This year, the center facilitated a special activity where clients personalized water lanterns in remembrance of those impacted by substance use disorders.
The water lanterns were more than just a creative outlet—they became a symbol of hope, healing, and reflection. Clients had the opportunity to write names, messages, and heartfelt notes on the lanterns, personalizing them to honor the memories of friends and loved ones lost to addiction or to support those still in the grip of this disease. These illuminated tokens were then released into a nearby water source, creating a tranquil and powerful moment as they floated together, lighting the way toward healing and hope.
This collective gesture allowed clients to process their grief and emotions in a meaningful way. As they watched the lanterns drift, it became a shared experience of connection, not only with those they had lost but also with each other. The activity underscored Bel Aire Recovery Center’s commitment to providing holistic care, incorporating therapeutic exercises that foster emotional expression and healing.
National Overdose Awareness Day and the lantern ceremony serve as reminders of the importance of recovery and the need for continued support for those affected by addiction. Bel Aire Recovery Center remains dedicated to helping clients find their path to sobriety, while also honoring those who are no longer with us.
