“This week, people and organizations across Canada will recognize National Addictions Awareness Week.
“Alberta’s government recognizes the work Albertans have done – and continue to do – to help those struggling with the illness of addiction in their pursuit of recovery.
“Addiction is a complex health issue, and we know there is no single solution to the challenges facing our communities. That’s why we continue to build a recovery-oriented system of care that provides access to a continuum of services including prevention, intervention, treatment and recovery.
“Our goal is to make sure every Albertan has the opportunity to pursue recovery and to ensure they are supported in that pursuit. There are thousands of Albertans living their lives in recovery every day. They are living proof that recovery is possible.
“Since 2019, Alberta’s government has taken bold action to support recovery from addiction. We started by creating over 8,000 newly funded addiction treatment spaces and eliminating all user fees for publicly funded treatment.
“We are also building more capacity with the creation of six new recovery communities across the province to increase access to holistic, long-term residential addiction treatment. Once completed, thousands more Albertans will be able to pursue recovery every year.
“Albertans struggling with opioid addiction can also access treatment on demand through the Virtual Opioid Dependency Program, which uses telehealth to provide evidence-based addiction treatment to Albertans across the province. Support is available seven days a week with no wait-lists.
“These are just some of the things our government has accomplished, and I look forward to continuing to build on these successes.
“During Addictions Awareness Week, or any other day of the year, reach out to your loved ones, reach out to someone who is in recovery or just reach out. Help is out there if you need it. You are not alone.
“Albertans struggling with addiction or mental health can contact 211 for information about addiction treatment and support available throughout the province.”