National Addictions Awareness Week is November 15 to 21, 2009

YELLOWKNIFE (November 17, 2009) – In support of National Addictions Awareness Week, the Department of Health and Social Services (HSS) is encouraging NWT residents to embrace healthy choices and lifestyles.National Addictions Awareness Week, November 15 to 21, is observed each year to gain awareness and understanding of addictions. This year’s theme is “Living the Good Life” to promote addictions-free lifestyles for individuals, families and communities.

“The Department of Health and Social Services is dedicated to raising the profile of addictions across the NWT, and to strengthening regional and local treatment and aftercare programs in communities,” said Minister of Health and Social Services Sandy Lee.

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is making significant investments under its Building Our Future strategic initiative to address the issues of mental health and addictions by providing more resources at a community level, and by putting referral processes in place to assist persons with residential treatment needs.

Health and Social Services Authorities continue to deliver the Community Counseling Program, providing community awareness, prevention and promotion activities as well as counseling, referral and aftercare services.

The GNWT is also initiating pilot projects to help evaluate possible program enhancements such as community-based culturally relevant services and aftercare services.

As part of the “Foundation for Change” priorities, HSS will begin implementing new programs targeting mental health and addictions, including a pilot program for aftercare in the Beaufort Delta as well as a three-year addictions social marketing campaign to address the unique needs of NWT residents.

For more information on National Addictions Awareness Week, visit www.addictionsawareness.com or the Department of Health and Social Services at www.hlthss.gov.nt.ca for information on services and help for addictions.

For more information, contact:
Damien Healy
Manager, Communications
Health and Social Services
Tel: (867) 920-8927