Statement from Minister of Health and Social Services on National Addictions Awareness Week

Press Release

November 25, 2024

Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:

“This week, from November 24 to 30, we observe National Addictions Awareness Week, an important time to highlight solutions for addressing the challenges associated with addictions. This year’s theme, Forging Connections, reminds us of the vital role that collaboration and understanding play in supporting individuals, families and communities impacted by addictions.

“Addiction takes many forms, affecting lives through dependencies on drugs, alcohol, gambling, technology and other behaviours. Each form of addiction carries its own challenges and stigma, but all share the common need for compassion, support and understanding. Recognizing and addressing these diverse struggles is a crucial part of fostering a healthier and more inclusive community for all.

“Substance use, as one of the many forms of addiction, presents unique and deeply personal challenges that often evoke a wide range of perspectives and experiences. While these challenges are complex and multifaceted, meaningful progress can be achieved by working together to build connections, find common ground and implement effective, collaborative strategies.

“Our government is committed to addressing substance use challenges through prevention, harm reduction, treatment and recovery and community safety and wellbeing initiatives that prioritize compassion and inclusivity. In partnership with Yukon First Nations governments, community organizations and individuals with lived experience, we are striving to reduce stigma, expand access to supports and create safer, healthier communities for all Yukoners.

“Over the past year, we have continued to build on the Substance Use Health Emergency Strategy, enhancing critical resources such as the Supervised Consumption Site, expanding safer supply programs, opening a Managed Alcohol Program and increasing access to drug-checking services and naloxone kits. These initiatives reflect our commitment to saving lives and supporting those on their journey to recovery.

“As we mark National Addictions Awareness Week 2024, I encourage all Yukoners to participate in events, access educational materials and engage in meaningful conversations about addiction and substance use. Together, we can forge the connections that lead to understanding, action and lasting change.

“To those impacted by substance use, please know that you are not alone. For help and resources, visit substanceuseservices.ca or connect with any of the following services.

• Mental Wellness and Substance Use Services (MWSUS): Offering Rapid Access Counselling (RAC) in person, virtually, or by phone, Monday to Friday. Appointments can be secured within three business days by phoning 867-456-3838 or toll-free at 1-866-456-3838.
• Opioid Treatment Services: Providing same-day appointments and safer supply options at various locations, including the Referred Care Clinic and 405 Alexander. Call 867-668-2552 for more information.
• Blood Ties Four Directions: Offering harm reduction services, including naloxone kits and drug checking. Contact their office at 867-633-2437 for support or to join upcoming community events.
• Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) – Yukon Division: Providing Drop-in Counselling sessions in person, virtually or by phone from Monday to Saturday. Call 867-668-6429 for more details. For immediate support, the CMHA Yukon Reach Out Support Line is available daily from 10 am to 2 am at 1-844-533-3030.
• 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline: Available 24/7 for anyone in crisis. Call or text 9-8-8 to connect with trained counsellors for culturally sensitive support.
• Hope for Wellness: Providing support and counselling for Indigenous Peoples. Call 1-855-242-3310.
• 24-Hour Residential School Survivor Crisis Line: Available at 1-866-925-4419 to provide immediate, sensitive support for residential school survivors and their families.
• Kids Help Phone: A resource for youth, available at 1-800-668-6868 or by texting CONNECT to 686868 for confidential counselling and support.
• TAO Tel-Aide: A French-language support line available 24/7 at 1-800-567-9699 for French-speaking Yukoners seeking free and confidential mental health assistance.

“At last Friday’s Yukon Forum, Chiefs and Cabinet identified health, wellness and addiction as urgent priorities for our communities. These discussions underscored the shared responsibility to address substance use challenges through collaboration, an approach that aligns closely with this year’s National Addictions Awareness Week theme, Forging Connections.

“Thank you to the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) for their leadership in promoting National Addictions Awareness Week and to all the organizations, advocates and community members working tirelessly to make a difference. Together, we can build a healthier, more compassionate society.”

Media contact

Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
laura.seeley@yukon.ca

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