Alcohol is still the most widely used and abused substance in America.

September is Recovery Month.

"Addiction is fueled by the age-old thing of getting out of the negative emotional state," said Dr. Amy Swift at world renowned Silver Hill Hospital in New Canaan.

Swift says during this recovery month it's important to recognize the triggers of alcohol and substance abuse.

"Feeling sad, being anxious those sorts of things are things that make people more likely to choose alcohol," said Swift.

She says there is more to recovery than people realize.

"Recovery is about not just sobriety, but it's about returning yourself to a place of wellness so it's about mental recovery. It's about finding physical wellness, maybe finding a nutrition plan that makes you feel good, so it's about supporting the whole person recovery and not just staying away from substances," said Swift.

Swift says alcohol use is at a record low, but people are finding other alternatives.

"So young people are drinking alcohol less. They are a generation that's chosen to seek other things, maybe some more of the invisible substances more and they really aren't using alcohol in the way that the generations before them have," said Swift.

She says making the choice to say no to alcohol and drugs, and getting treatment can not only save your relationships but save your life.

Dr. Swift says the effects of alcohol can last well into the next day and can affect your mood and sleep.