Province touting recovery efforts as National Addictions Awareness Week arrives

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on November 26, 2024.

asmith@medicinehatnews.com

National Addictions Awareness Week is Nov. 24-30, and the province has released a statement of hope and optimism regarding the possibility of recovery for Albertans.

“Addiction is a disease that nearly every Albertan is affected by, either directly or indirectly through a family member or friend. This week, our government is highlighting that we believe in recovery, and that it is possible with the right care and support,” said Minister of Mental Health and Addiction Dan Williams.

The province says it is cautiously hopeful, having seen positive trends throughout 2024, saying opioid-related fatalities so far this year are 37 per cent lower than in 2023, Alberta’s deadliest year on record where 1,870 people were lost.

“The Alberta Recovery Model is our policy that focuses on bringing people out of addiction to live healthy lives, reunited with their family, community and culture,” said Williams, and he is pleased to see fewer people losing their lives to addiction.

“Our government has now opened three world-class recovery communities, with eight more on the way. We look forward to expansions exclusively for youth addiction treatment services, as we know how important that will be.

“Other work through the Virtual Opioid Dependency Program, partnerships with Indigenous communities and future legislation will continue strengthening Alberta’s recovery-oriented system of care.”

Albertans are encouraged to learn more about addiction within their communities and what they can do to support loved ones who may be suffering.

Likewise, in honour of the week, Recovery Alberta shared some resources to help residents or their communities. Supports are available 24/7 through the Mental Health Helpline at 1-877-303-2642, the Addiction Helpline at 1-866-332-2322, as well as 211. Information, advice and resources can also be found at recoveryalberta.ca.

For those needing culturally appropriate care, the Indigenous Support Line is available at 1-844-944-4744, Monday to Friday, from noon to 8 p.m.

“If you or someone you love is suffering from addiction or facing mental health challenges, help is available,” said Williams. “Thousands of Albertans are on their recovery journeys and they are living proof that recovery is possible.”

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