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By Sheena Roszell

Local events planned for National Addictions Awareness Week

Nov 15, 2017 | 8:48 AM

Alberta Health Services (AHS) is teaming up with individuals, community groups, schools and businesses across the province to celebrate National Addictions Awareness Week.

Korie-Lyn Northey, with the local chapter of AHS and Mental Health, says it’s an opportunity to raise awareness about issues relating to substance abuse and problem gambling and highlight how we can support an addiction-free lifestyle and prevent addictions.

“Unfortunately, addictions can affect anyone and their family members, as well as their place of business. So, it’s important that we do raise awareness about what treatments are available and what supports (are available) for family members as well as for the businesses,” said Northey.

Events this week include the Community Fentanyl Forum this evening at the Bowes Family Gardens in Revolution Place.  There will be a number of speakers.  There will also be an outreach nurse from HIV North that will have information on Naloxone kits, which are used to help individuals recover from Fentanyl overdoses. The free event begins at 7 p.m.

The third annual Walk for Sobriety is Saturday.

“It’s an opportunity for Indigenous community members to come out and to participate in a traditional pipe ceremony, feast and round dance.  And it is to celebrate sobriety, so there will be individuals sharing their stories of recovery,” said Northey.

The walk starts at 3:30 p.m. Saturday from the Salvation Army.  Ahead of the walk, addictions resources and information will be available from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

For an AHS Addiction and Mental Health site near you call Health Link at 811.

by Sheena Roszell