NAAW is an annual campaign led by the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA). This week is dedicated to raising awareness about the harms associated with alcohol and other substances.

This year’s theme will focus on “Forging Connections”, encouraging communities, partners, and individuals to develop connections, identify a common ground, and work together to help address the challenges of substance use health.  By doing so, everyone can work together more efficiently to find effective solutions and actions they can all support! 

Addiction, also known as Substance Use Disorders, can arise from a variety of complex and interrelated factors.

• Stress and Coping Mechanisms: Many people turn to substances as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or trauma that may stem from work, relationships, or life changes. Substances can be used as a temporary escape or relief. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), stress is a significant contributor to the onset of Substance Use Disorders.
• Mental Health Disorders: Mental health conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, Depression, and other mood disorders are strongly associated with Substance Use Disorders. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) notes that many individuals with mental health disorders may start using substances in an attempt to manage their symptoms, which can lead to addiction.  
• Peer Pressure and Social Influence: Young people, in particular, are vulnerable to peer pressure. If they are in social circles where drug or alcohol use is prevalent, they may feel compelled to participate to fit in.
• Genetics and Family History: Genetic predisposition can also be a risk factor for Substance Use Disorders. Individuals with a family history of addictions are more likely to develop one themselves due to inherited traits. This is supported by the Public Health Agency of Canada.
• Intergenerational Trauma: Individuals’ upbringing can be affected by the trauma their ancestors endured. This can lead to a range of mental health issues, which may cause individuals to turn to substances as a form of self-medication. CAMH and CCSA indicate that the psychological and emotional scars of trauma can create a cycle where substance use becomes a way to numb the pain or disconnect from distressing memories, perpetuating a cycle of addiction.  
• Trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Experiences of trauma, especially during childhood, can significantly increase the risk of substance use in later life. ACEs such as abuse, neglect, or witnessing violence are strongly correlated with the development of addiction. CCSA reports that individuals with a history of trauma are at a higher risk of Substance Use Disorders as they may use substances to cope with the emotional pain associated with their experiences.  
• Availability and Accessibility: Easy to access substances, whether it’s through legal means (such as alcohol and prescription drugs) or illegal means, can increase the likelihood of substance use. Availability in someone’s community or social group can lower the barriers to experimenting with or regularly using substances.  

Negative stereotypes and misconceptions about people who use substances can prevent them from accessing the care they need. For instance, only a small percentage of primary care physicians in Ontario are willing to take on new patients with opioid use disorder, which can lead to tragic outcomes like overdose.  

As RRC Polytech community members, we can each play a crucial role in combating stigma by using person-first language. For example, instead of labelling someone as an “addict” or “druggie”, refer to them as a “person with addiction” or “person who uses drugs”. This simple change in language can make a significant difference in how individuals perceive themselves and how they are treated by others.  

In 2023 alone, there were 8,904 opioid-related deaths, which means an average of 22 people died each day due to opioid-related causes. This represents a continuation of a troubling trend that began in 2016, with the country having experienced over 44,000 opioid related deaths since then. 

If you are interested in getting involved, here are a few ways you can make a difference:  

• Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the signs of addiction, the risks associated with substance use, and the resources available for support. Share this information with your family and peers to foster a more informed and compassionate community.  

• Promote Healthy Behaviors: Engage in and encourage activities that support mental health and well-being, such as mindfulness, exercise, and social connections that do not revolve around substance use.  

• Support Your Peers: If you know someone who is struggling with addictions, offer your support without judgement. Encourage them to seek help and remind them that they are not alone.  

• Advocate for Resources: Advocate for increased access to mental health and addiction support services in your community.