Prescription drug addiction is an ongoing problem across Manitoba, and the North is no exception.
However, those suffering from addiction need not struggle alone.
The Addictions Foundation of Manitoba (AFM) offers a variety of services across the province, including several in Flin Flon, according to Lannie Bosman-Leptick, program supervisor for Flin Flon, The Pas and area.
“Services are available for any individual who either seeks help themselves or through referral,” said Bosman-Leptick. “Community-based counsellors are available as are treatment options.”
AFM offers individual assessment before a personalized, client-centred treatment plan is developed.
“Each client is unique and the services need to be tailored to meet the needs of that individual,” Bosman-Leptick said.
Treatment may include collaboration with other agencies such as mental health, according to Bosman-Leptick.
A variety of options are available to people suffering from addiction, including treatment in care facilities outside the community.
In such cases, counsellors work with the client to set them up for success when they return to their home.
“Some people think that if you go away for treatment and come back, everything will be fine,” said Bosman-Leptick. “It doesn’t work like that. They will need to cope with cravings and triggers that led to the behaviour. Sometimes it means changes in their social life, places they frequent or the company they keep.”
The bottom line, according to Bosman-Leptick, is determining what will work best for the client and getting a plan in place to help him or her succeed.
Drug addictions do not solely affect the individual but are also something that affects the people around them.
In an effort to support family and loved ones, counselling services are available for friends and family of the client.
Prescription drug addiction is on the rise across the province and transcends all age groups, gender, economic status and cultural identity.
Prevention through education is one of the key tools used to combat the problem, according to Bosman-Leptick.
Counsellors have been set up in high schools and in communities across Manitoba.
“We encourage parents to discuss drug addictions with their teens before it becomes a problem,” she said.
AFM advises a number of key points to safeguard against improper drug use. If on prescribed medication that could be addictive, patients are reminded to take it only as directed.
They are also encouraged to be discrete about their treatment so they don’t become targets of theft. Any unused medication should be returned to the pharmacy or deposited in safe storage disposal units located at health centres
AFM advises people who are being affected by alcohol, drugs or gambling, or know of someone who is, to call AFM’s toll-free line at 1-866-638-2561.
