A leading substance abuse specialist from the US is to give a speech on how to help drug addicts.

Westley Clark, director of the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment for the US Department of Health and Human Services, will be speaking at a banquet at the Fairmont Hamilton on September 15.

He is at the forefront of his country's efforts to provide effective and accessible treatment to all Americans with addictive disorders.

His areas of expertise include substance abuse treatment, pain management, anger management and legal issues.

The Ministry of Social Rehabilitation announced the move as part of a series of events to mark National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery month.

Minister Dale Butler kicked off the month by reading a proclamation on the steps of the City Hall yesterday.

"Alcohol and drug addictions continue to challenge our community with ravaging effects on the family, the community and the individual," said Mr. Butler.

"Alcohol and drug addictions impact every facet of the individual and the family life, destroying ambitions, moral convictions and friendships.

"Alcohol and drug addictions create a single focus on the destruction of life and bring about devastating consequences."

Also as part of the month, speeches will be made by Caron Treatment Centers' family educational co-ordinator Michael Otey and Social Rehabilitation Permanent Secretary Wayne Carey.

Other events include a church service for treatment professionals, clients and their families at Beulah Tabernacle, Somerset, tomorrow, at 11 a.m., and a presentation on substance abuse at the Mid Atlantic Wellness Institute on September 13.

A Women's Treatment Centre recovery walk will take place from the centre to Shelly Bay Beach on September 29, followed by a supper in the evening.