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It isn’t easy admitting to having a problem with alcohol or other drugs. It can be equally difficult to accept that a family member or friend has a substance use problem. But most people would agree that ignoring a problem won’t make it go away. The only way to deal with a substance use problem is to make positive changes that lead back to a healthy lifestyle.
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Crisis lines
Sometimes a substance use problem requires emergency assistance. If you or someone you know is in crisis right now, go to your local emergency department or call 911.
Self-help tips and tools
When given the right tools, many people are able to treat their own substance use problems. Here to Help offers a range of self-assessment tools as well as tip sheets on how to cut down on or quit using tobacco, alcohol and other drugs. Visit the “Tips” section of the Here to Help website, www.heretohelp.ca.
Service and treatment information lines
Some people are not able to manage their substance use problem on their own. If you are not in crisis but need help finding information about services and treatment options, call the Alcohol and Drug Information Referral Service, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week:
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604–660–9382 in Greater Vancouver 1–800–663–1441 outside the Greater Vancouver area
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You can also access the information online at http://www.vcn.bc.ca/isv/adirs.htm
Concurrent disorders
If you or someone you know has both a substance use problem and a mental health disorder (known as a concurrent disorder), you may need a specialized program.
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Dual Diagnosis Program of Greater Vancouver: 604–255–9843 (For information, call and leave a message at an outpatient service offering limited access to one-on-one counselling, an addictions specialist, a psychiatrist and a resource centre.)
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Vancouver Community Mental Health Services: 604–251–2264 (For youth aged 12 to 24.)
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Berman House (residential treatment in Vancouver): 604–254–6065
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Support groups (Double Trouble, Dual Diagnosis Anonymous, Dual Recovery Anonymous). Call the Alcohol and Drug Referral Service at 604–660–9382 or 1–800–663–1441 for groups in your area.
Other helpful information lines
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BC Nurses Help Line: 604–215–4700
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Human Services Line: 211
To get help anywhere in British Columbia, call Alcohol and Drug Information Referral Service 1-800-663-1441 (throughout BC) or 604-660-9382 (in Greater Vancouver)
For more information on managing substance use, visit www.heretohelp.bc.ca or www.carbc.ca.