National Addictions Awareness Week (NAAW) runs from November 16th to 22nd, 2025, with the theme “Anchoring Hope”. NAAW highlights solutions that help address the harms related to alcohol and other drug use, providing Canadians with an opportunity to learn more about prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery.
With a focus on intervention prevention and healing from domestic, family, and sexual violence, Waypoints understands that trauma can sometimes lead to substance use as a coping strategy. Recognizing this connection encourages empathy, reduces stigma, and enhances recovery efforts.
Residents seeking help with substance use in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo can access local supports such as:
Wood Buffalo Addiction and Mental Health Services – 1-888-594-0211 or 780-793-8360
Fort McMurray Recovery Centre – residential treatment and counselling programs
Pastew Place Detox Centre – detox and day programs
Mark Amy Treatment Centre – culturally appropriate programs, including Indigenous-focused support
Recovery College Wood Buffalo – education and community programs on mental health and substance use
Wood Buffalo Wellness Society – provides appropriate programs and support for addiction treatment and housing to individuals and families, focusing efforts toward Indigenous communities, reconciliation, and wellness
National Addictions Awareness Week encourages reflection, learning, and compassionate approaches to substance use. Acknowledging the connection between trauma and addiction reinforces the importance of safe, understanding, and supportive environments across the region.
To learn more about National Addictions Awareness Week, please visit the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse and Addiction.