Nov 13

Non-12 Step Programs for Recovery in Canada

There’s no doubt that participating in a support group while in recovery helps Canadians remain abstinent from drugs and alcohol. According to an article published in the Journal of Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation, several studies show that engagement in a peer support group can contribute to successful long-term recovery in Canadians. Peer support groups have been shown to significantly reduce relapse rates and help to strengthen long-term recovery. When thinking of group support and...
Read More
Nov 6

Understanding Addiction and Addiction Treatment in Canada

What is Addiction? Addiction is a complex disease of the brain. It focuses on the brain’s reward system in particular. This condition manifests in compulsive behaviors, most often around consuming drugs or alcohol; however, addiction is also associated with behaviors that trigger the reward system, such as sex or gambling.  When you are addicted, you’re compulsively using a substance, or exhibiting compulsive behavior. In that sense, it’s important to recognize that addiction does...
Read More
Sep 17

Public Addiction Treatment in Newfoundland and Labrador: Drug Rehab and Alcohol Treatment...

There are four provincial health authorities in Newfoundland and Labrador. In order to access addiction treatment in Newfoundland, you must determine if you are located in the Eastern Health, Central Health, Western Health, or Labrador-Grenfell Health region. The health authorities offer services for both substance use and process addictions like gambling, as well as services for those who are using and those who are affected by a loved one's use. Newfoundland offers outpatient counseling,...
Read More
Sep 3

September is National Recovery Month

Every September, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) sponsors National Recovery Month to both celebrate those living in recovery, and to spread awareness and understanding of mental health issues and substance use disorders. Recovery Month started life as Treatment Works! Month back in 1989 which focused on the efforts of substance use treatment professionals. In 1998 it turned into National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month when the campaign expanded...
Read More
Aug 31

International Overdose Awareness Day – Drug Overdose Statistics in Canada

Since its inception in 2001, August 31st has been International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD). It began in Melbourne, Australia and since then has been adopted by both government and non-government organizations to hold events to raise awareness and commemorate the loss of life. The climbing accidental opioid-related death toll in Canada has made many Canadians well aware of the danger of overdose. This blog will look at what an overdose is, as well as the current state of opioid-related...
Read More
Aug 23

PEI Mental Health and Addictions Plan (Prince Edward Island)

The PEI mental health and addictions 10-year plan was developed only a few years ago and covers 2016 to 2026. The document, Moving Forward Together, Prince Edward Island’s Mental Health and Addictions Strategy has five main pillars: mental health promotion for people of all ages; access to the right service, treatment, and support; an innovative and collaborative workforce; invest early - focus on children, young people and families, foster recovery and well-being for people of all...
Read More