Nassau County has proclaimed September as Recovery Month, and the dome of the Nassau County Legislature is aglow in purple lights in honor.

Recovery Month is part of a national movement to raise awareness and understanding of substance abuse and celebrate the people who recover.

Sarah Smith became addicted to drugs and alcohol when she was 14 years old. Now 25, she says she's been sober for years. Smith hopes Recovery Month will help erase the stigma behind addiction.

"The county declaring this month as recovery, it's really going to open up some doors for people who were hesitant at first or maybe didn't realize there was something else after drug addiction," says Smith.

To help those battling addiction, the county recently passed Timothy's Law. It's a phone app that'll help provide quick access to recovery programs.

Timothy's Law is named for Teri Kroll's son. Ever since Timothy Kroll lost his battle against heroin addiction in August 2009, Kroll has fought to ensure that families dealing with substance abuse have a place to turn for help.

"Timothy's law allows you to download an app, which is a 24/7 hotline, and you'll be able to navigate through the system," says Kroll. "They'll be able to help you 24/7 to find treatment."

The county says the dome will remain lit purple until the end of the month but the fight to help those suffering from addiction will be ongoing.