By rdnewsNOW Staff

Nov. 21-27, 2021

Raising awareness around addiction

Nov 23, 2021 | 11:19 AM

This week is National Addictions Awareness Week (NAAW) and officials with Alberta Health Services (AHS) say it provides opportunities to address harms related to substance use, and to inform Albertans about prevention, treatment and recovery.

AHS is sharing information regarding addiction to recognize NAAW, which runs Nov. 21 to 27.

Officials say the effects of addiction go beyond the individual and may include their family, friends and society. They further suggest that preventing and reducing harm related to substance use and addiction is everyone’s business.

NAAW calls on everybody to learn more about issues related to substance use and problem gambling, and creates an opportunity to highlight ways in which all Albertans can play a role — big or small — to support one another in living addiction-free by driving change together.

Resources are available to help individuals, families, schools and communities. Visit www.ahs.ca/helpintoughtimes. These resources are said to include information on what individuals can do for their mental well-being, including self-care tips, which can reduce the chance of addiction occurring.

Last seen March 31

Missing: Eugenie Headman, 66, of Maskwacis

11h ago

mayor hopes to meet housing minister this month

Alberta demands Ottawa back off on housing funding stripped from Red Deer

Apr 02, 2026

Last seen Jan. 15

Missing: Courtney Cattleman, 17, of Maskwacis

Apr 02, 2026

Some examples of positive self-care include:

• Asking for help.
• Treating yourself with respect as you would treat a friend.
• Going for a walk.
• Practising gratitude.
• Laughing often.
• Understanding your emotions.
• Trying a new hobby.

If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction, help is available. Albertans can get more information and help by calling Health Link at 811 or the Addiction Helpline at 1-866-332-2322.

For additional information and resources, check out the many links provided below:

National Addictions Awareness Week | Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (ccsa.ca).

Alberta Addiction Education Sessions – Alberta Addiction Education Sessions (AAES) 2021-2022 (albertahealthservices.ca).

Bridging the Gap: AHS Newsletter: E-Newsletter: Bridging the Gap | Alberta Health Services

CCSA Addiction News Subscription: News Services Subscription | Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (ccsa.ca)

National Addictions Awareness Week: Tips for the Defence Team for coping with stress and anxiety when substance use is a concern during COVID-19 – Canada.ca.