Addiction is complex. And if you or a loved one has suffered from addiction, you should know it’s not a choice. Addiction is characterized by the continued use of substances despite the harmful consequences. Research has also shown the link between substance use disorders and mental illness. By recognizing that addiction is a problem in […]
Recovery Resource Centre
The Role of Family in Addiction Recovery
Recovering from addiction is a long and challenging process. While addiction is a deeply personal battle, it may impact a person’s loved ones in significant and deeply traumatizing ways. Taking on an addiction recovery journey often becomes a whole family’s responsibility, and it’s essential to have all the knowledge you need before going on it. […]
A Message of Hope to Warm Your Heart
Dear Friend, Though it is not springtime yet, I have found myself looking for the bright rays of the sun to warm my spirit as I anticipate the new life that spring brings. While the forecast remains cool, I am reminded of something far greater that can lift our hearts as we wait for the […]
The Effects of Drug Addiction on Family Members
Battling a substance use disorder is difficult for everyone involved. Although recovery is often viewed as a personal experience, substance use disorders can have devastating effects on friends, spouses, children, and parents. Friends and family members play an important role in recovery, but it can be a difficult journey. Unfortunately, time and time again, we […]
How to Help Prevent a Former Addict from Relapsing
It is undeniably challenging to support a loved one as they navigate recovery—whether it’s your friend, parent, sibling, child, or another relationship. We know how emotionally draining it can be when you spend so much energy just wanting them to be okay. It’s especially difficult when you’re unsure of the resources available to you or […]
What Should I Do If Addiction Runs in My Family?
Approximately 21% of the Canadian population will experience addiction at some point in their lives—that is almost 6 million people. How does this happen? How does one become addicted to substances like methamphetamines, cocaine, or opioids, or even to a behaviour like gambling? You may have heard people say that they have an “addictive personality.” […]
Statistics on Addiction in Canada
The majority of people who use substances such as drugs or alcohol do so to relax or have fun. Unfortunately, for some people, using substances or engaging in certain behaviours can become problematic and may lead to abuse or addiction. In Canada, approximately 21% of the population (about 6 million people) will experience a substance […]
Is Addiction a Mental Illness?
Addiction can be difficult to understand. If you or a loved one suffers from substance abuse, you may be haunted by questions such as “what caused this?” or “why does this happen to me?” If you’ve found yourself in this position before, you should know that it is now widely accepted that addiction is considered […]
How Addiction Changes the Brain & How You Think
Addiction can have an extremely powerful impact on the brain. As complex creatures that are affected by hormones and chemical reactions, understanding how the brain works with the effects of addition is important. Even though it may be difficult, addiction can be treated. This treatment requires breaking down the addictive connections that have formed in […]
Help us Rebuild from COVID 19
A message from our CEO, Jim Moore Help us Rebuild from COVID 19 To our CDC Community, While the risk of contracting COVID 19 is slowly declining, and we see hope on the horizon as we are so close to entering Phase 3 of Alberta’s Open for Summer plan. Addiction, mental health, and homelessness are […]