November 26, 2024, marks a significant milestone in the fight against addiction as the Government of Saskatchewan recognizes November 24 to 30 as National Addictions Awareness Week, a crucial initiative aimed at raising awareness about the devastating consequences of addiction and highlighting the various treatment and recovery options available to those struggling with this debilitating issue.
Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr emphasized the importance of this week, stating, “This week presents a vital opportunity for us to engage in open and honest discussions about the harm caused by addictions, as well as the numerous treatment and recovery options available to those who are bravely fighting to overcome their struggles with addiction. Our comprehensive Action Plan for Mental Health and Addictions has been instrumental in increasing access to essential services, and I am proud to announce that we have successfully established 215 new treatment spaces, significantly exceeding our initial target of 200 spaces by the end of this fiscal year in March.”
The Action Plan, unveiled in October 2023, outlines a bold commitment to add 500 new treatment spaces over the next five years. The 215 newly established spaces include a diverse range of services and facilities, such as 15 spaces at Muskwa Lake, 15 inpatient treatment spaces and two withdrawal management spaces at Thorpe Recovery Centre near Lloydminster, 26 post-treatment spaces at St. Joseph’s Addiction Recovery Centre in Estevan, 32 intensive outpatient treatment spaces at Possibilities Recovery Center in Saskatoon, 14 inpatient addictions treatment spaces at Poundmaker’s Lodge in North Battleford, 60 treatment spaces at the Willowview Recovery Centre in Lumsden, 15 withdrawal management spaces at Onion Lake, and 36 virtual spaces through EHN Canada.
Minister Carr expressed her pride in exceeding the initial target, stating, “Our ability to surpass our target is a testament to our government’s unwavering commitment to providing accessible and effective treatment options for Saskatchewan residents struggling with addiction. We recognize that addiction is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach, and our Action Plan is designed to address the various aspects of addiction treatment and recovery.”
In addition to expanding treatment capacity, the province is also enhancing access to medications that play a crucial role in supporting individuals in recovery. Suboxone dissolving film strips have been added as a regular benefit on the Saskatchewan Drug Formulary, providing a convenient and effective treatment option for those struggling with opioid addiction. Furthermore, Sublocade, another vital treatment for reducing cravings, has been upgraded from an Exception Drug Status to a regular benefit, streamlining access to this essential medication.
By making Suboxone and Sublocade more accessible, the province aims to empower individuals in recovery to better manage withdrawal symptoms, allowing them to focus on their ongoing recovery journey. The new Action Plan is built around three core pillars: building capacity for treatment, improving the system itself, and transitioning to a recovery-oriented system of care for addictions treatment.
Over the past year, the province has launched a new Provincial Drug Alert System, a critical initiative designed to increase awareness of the dangers of illicit drugs and the presence of other toxic substances that further increase the risk of overdose and death. This system serves as a vital tool in the fight against addiction, providing timely and accurate information to support individuals, families, and communities.
For those seeking information on available alcohol and drug supports, the province has established a dedicated resource at saskatchewan.ca/addictions. Additionally, individuals can visit saskatchewan.ca/overdose to learn more about overdose prevention and the various resources available to support those affected by addiction.
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