Annual Mental Health & Substance Use Recovery Conference

The Annual Mental Health & Substance Use Recovery Conference will take place at the Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Wisconsin Dells, United States. This event aims to enhance knowledge and skills across a spectrum of topics related to mental health and substance use recovery. Attendees, including behavioral health professionals, individuals in recovery, family members, clinicians from the criminal and juvenile justice system, adolescent treatment professionals, and educators, will engage in discussions on wellness, prevention, intervention, treatment, holistic care, and quality improvement through best practices tailored to their communities.The conference underscores the importance of meaningful involvement in person and family-centered planning and system change. It particularly focuses on increasing awareness of peer support, peer-run programs, and the role of Certified Peer Specialists in Wisconsin. Special emphasis will be placed on understanding the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), trauma, social determinants of health, and intersecting levels of oppression on substance use and mental health. The event seeks to foster an inclusive environment and acknowledges the systemic barriers faced by individuals from diverse backgrounds, offering support for those in need of compensation for travel and related costs.The conference is also committed to equity and inclusion, requesting presenters to adopt person-centered, recovery-affirming language. It will provide complimentary registration and one night of lodging for up to three presenters selected based on the relevance of their workshop proposals, experience, and the diversity of perspectives they bring. The planning committee encourages proposals that address topics not recently covered to ensure a fresh and engaging agenda. Participants can earn Continuing Education Hours (CEHs) by attending live sessions, and the event is designed to honor dignity, inclusion, and the lived experiences of all participants. The success of the conference is supported by generous sponsors and the collaborative efforts of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and the conference planning committee.