Society must do more to encourage recovering drug addicts if they are to make a proper re-integration into society – that is the message from the Ministry of Social Rehabilitation.

The Ministry's Permanent Secretary, Wayne Carey, was speaking during the Hamilton Rotary Club's weekly meeting yesterday.

Mr. Carey also announced that Government has designated September as Recovery Month with the theme 'Saving Lives, Saving Dollars'.

"When we speak of the cost of addictions, we are not just focusing on the financial costs. The cost of addictions also encompasses the social price that is paid by the addict, his or her family and the community.

"This price is often manifested in terms of health, social relationships, children's welfare, employment opportunity and productivity within the community," said Mr. Carey.

Mr. Carey made clear that substance abuse is not limited to one race or particular group of people and suggested that most adults in Bermuda know or are aware of someone addicted to drugs. He added: "Substance abuse is pervasive and is not limited to any race, creed or particular group of people.

"Look around and I can guarantee you that most people in this room know or are aware of at least one person who is addicted to a substance.

"This is the price we pay for use and abuse of alcohol, tobacco and illegal substances.

Mr. Carey, who oversees four departments, including the National Drug Control put forth the following ways the average person, can help those with addictions. "We must show support as employers by taking a risk and hiring a recovered addict to help them transition into a productive life," he continued.

"We must show support as landlords by not exhibiting bias against those who have been successful in conquering addiction."

And he cited alcohol as one of the prime reasons in Bermuda for accidents and a substance that contributes to domestic violence and the loss of jobs.