Anchoring Hope: National Addictions Awareness Week and Mental Health

Substance use is widespread. Health Canada’s 2023 Substance Use Survey found that 90 % of Canadians have consumed alcohol at some point, and 79 % consumed alcohol in the past 12 months. Cannabis has been used by 63 % of Canadians in their lifetime and 32 % in the past year. Lifetime prevalence of opioid use was 30 %, with 13 % using opioids in the past year. Among youth aged 15–24, alcohol and cannabis use remains high, with 73 % drinking alcohol and 48 % using cannabis in the past year. These figures illustrate that substance use is not confined to a small segment of society; it touches nearly every community.

While many people use substances without developing addiction, substance use disorders can lead to devastating health and social consequences. The Public Health Agency of Canada reports that from January 2016 to March 2025, 53 821 apparent opioid toxicity deaths occurred. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, 1 377 opioid related deaths were recorded, with 95 % classified as accidental. Most deaths involved non pharmaceutical opioids, particularly fentanyl and its analogues. Opioid related poisonings also led to 49 445 hospitalizations and 203 577 emergency department visits from 2016 to 2025. The burden is disproportionately borne by men and people aged 30–49.

Mental illness and addiction are intertwined. CAMH notes that people with mental illness are twice as likely to have a substance use disorder, and at least 20 % of people with mental illness have a co occurring substance use disorder. Conversely, people with substance use disorders are up to three times more likely to have a mental illness. Substance use contributes to 67 000 deaths per year in Canada, including over 47 000 from tobacco and nearly 15 000 from alcohol. Economic costs of mental illness exceed $50 billion per year, and substance use costs approach $40 billion, with alcohol and tobacco accounting for most of the burden.

Addressing addiction requires compassion, evidence based strategies and a broader understanding of health determinants. Harm reduction approaches—such as supervised consumption sites, naloxone distribution and opioid agonist therapy—reduce deaths and infections without requiring abstinence. Decriminalization and safe supply programs aim to reduce the harms associated with illicit drug markets. Prevention efforts include youth education, policies limiting advertising and availability, and addressing social determinants like housing and employment.

The “Anchoring Hope” theme highlights the importance of connection and optimism. People who use substances often face stigma and isolation. Community support groups, peer counselling and culturally safe programs can provide non judgmental spaces for healing. CHFA’s trend report underscores the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion; addiction services should be accessible to all, including Indigenous Peoples, LGBTQ2S+ individuals and newcomers.

Technology may play a supportive role. The 2025 Watch List identifies AI tools for remote monitoring, notetaking and disease detection. Such tools could assist clinicians in tracking substance use patterns, detecting relapse risks and personalizing care plans. Mobile apps can deliver cognitive behavioural therapy modules, peer support networks and crisis hotlines. However, digital solutions must protect privacy and avoid bias.

National Addictions Awareness Week invites us to confront the realities of substance use with empathy and hope. Educate yourself about harm reduction and support local organizations working on the front lines. If you or someone you love is struggling, reach out—help is available through helplines, community health centres and peer groups. Advocate for policies that address the social drivers of addiction and ensure equitable access to treatment. By anchoring hope in evidence and compassion, we can reduce stigma, save lives and support healthier communities.

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