This week marks National Addictions Awareness Week - a time to listen, to learn, and to support those affected by substance use and addiction. The theme this year is "Anchoring Hope." Addiction is not a choice. Like any other health issue, people experiencing addiction deserve compassion and care.
In particular, men experience the highest rates of opioid overdoses in Canada, and skilled trade workers are more impacted by substance use and addiction than any other field of work. That is why Government of Canada campaigns like Ease the Burden are specifically reaching trades people to make sure they are aware that services are available to help with substance use and mental health challenges.
We are also helping teens and young adults through the Know More Opioids awareness program, which aims to inform teens and young adults on the facts surrounding opioids, the risks of illegal drugs, ways to reduce risks, and the harms of stigma.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to solving the overdose crisis, and no one can solve it alone. But working together, we can make a difference. The Government of Canada is working in partnership with all levels of government, including municipalities and Indigenous communities, to address the overdose crisis and minimize substance use related harms. This includes funding projects to address urgent and immediate needs related to substance use and overdose, treating people who use substances with compassion, dignity, and respect; recognizing the distinct ways that substance use policies can affect racialized and other marginalized populations; and engaging with people with lived and living experience.
We must continue to break down barriers, reduce stigma and make it easier to support those who need help.
If you or someone you know needs help with addiction or substance use, know that you are not alone and that help is available. Talk to a health care provider, or visit Canada.ca.
The Honourable Marjorie Michel, P.C., M.P.
