Nov 17-21, 2014 is National Addictions Awareness Week

Each year, the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse (CCSA) joins organizations across the country in observing National Addictions Awareness Week (NAAW). Led nationally by CCSA, NAAW highlights issues and solutions to help address alcohol- and other drug-related harm. It provides an opportunity for Canadians to learn more about substance abuse prevention, to talk about treatment and recovery, and to bring forward solutions for change.

In 2014, NAAW will be held November 17–21. CCSA will also mark the National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims on November 19 during NAAW by drawing attention to the growing problem of drug-impaired driving.

Preventing and reducing harms associated with drug use is a priority for CCSA and its partners, so this year’s theme for NAAW is youth substance abuse prevention, especially addressing the use of alcohol, cannabis and prescription drugs by youth.

CCSA has many resources on these topics:

• A Case for Investing in Youth Substance Abuse Prevention
• The Problem of Youth Drugged Driving and Approaches to Prevention: Report in short
• What Canadian Youth Think about Cannabis: Report in Short
• The Canadian Standards for Youth Substance Abuse Prevention: An Overview

To learn more about youth substance abuse prevention, visit CCSA.ca, Children and Youth Topic.

During NAAW, join the dialogue to help create a healthier society, free of the harms of substance misuse and abuse. Use the hashtag #NAAWCanada to help support this year’s activities and share relevant resources on your social media channels.