Understanding Substance Use
Are you looking to deepen your understanding of substance use? Whether for personal growth or to better support others in your community, Understanding Substance Use is a welcoming, interactive and accessible course designed for individuals who want to gain insight into the complexities of drug and alcohol use and its effects on individuals, families, and communities.
This free event provides a practical, stigma-free introduction to the topic, focusing on increasing awareness, challenging misconceptions, and offering real tools for support and engagement. Whether you are part of a community group, a concerned friend, family member, neighbour, or simply someone who wants to learn more, this course is a valuable starting point. concerned friend, family member, neighbour, or simply someone who wants to learn more, this course is a valuable starting point.
What You’ll Learn:
- The nature of addiction and why substances can become problematic
- The difference between dependence and addiction
- How values and behaviours interact in the context of substance use
- What a client journey can look like
- Understanding lapses and relapses as part of the recovery process
- How to challenge myths and stigma surrounding substance use
- Practical tools to support adults using substances
- Skills and strategies for concerned others (friends, family, neighbours)
- How children and young people are affected by familial substance use
- Ways to safely and effectively support children in these situations
- An overview of useful services and resources available locally
This interactive course is delivered in a safe, supportive environment where questions are encouraged and lived experiences are respected. No prior experience or knowledge is needed.
