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How to get help
There are many reasons someone may want help with their substance use, and there are many ways to be helped.
Recovery is possible and looks different for each person. There are different pathways to recovery and you can choose the path that makes sense to you.
If you use drugs, do not use alone. Call 911 if you suspect an overdose.
Help resources
Naloxone can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose if it is given right away. Kits are free at sites across Alberta.
If you suspect an overdose
Call 911
Call 911 if you or someone you are with used drugs and have any of these symptoms:
- breathing is slow or not breathing at all
- blue nails, blue lips
- choking or throwing up
- making gurgling sounds
- skin is cold and clammy
- will not wake up
First aid
Follow these steps if able:
- initiate rescue breathing
- use naloxone injection kit or Narcan® nasal spray
Canada's Good Samaritan law provides some legal protection for people who experience or witness an overdose and call 911 for help.
What we are doing
Opioid addiction is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive and holistic approach, including prevention, intervention, treatment and recovery.
We are working with partners to inform Albertans of the wide range of addiction services available so they can access the recovery services that best suit their needs.
- Fentanyl remediation guidance – this has been prepared to help agencies and professionals manage risks related to property or materials contaminated with fentanyl.
- Opioid Agonist Therapy Gap Coverage Program – This program provides immediate, no-cost coverage for certain OAT medications for 120 days, while you enrol in a supplementary health benefit plan.
In focus
Reporting the prescribing patterns, use or misuse, drug overdoses and deaths related to fentanyl and opioids in Alberta.
Translated resources
These printable opioid resources are available in 10 languages.
News
- Expert panel to review supervised consumption sites (Aug. 19, 2019)