Richard Froese
South Peace News
Peace River MLA and Mental Health and Addiction Minister Dan Williams is busy promoting Mental Health and Addiction Recovery month in September.
For the past six years, Alberta’s government had marked Recovery Month, Williams says in a government news release dated Sept. 1.
“This September, we are amplifying the message that recovery is possible, no matter what mental health or addiction you face,” says Williams, who has served as the minister since June 9, 2023.
He is pleased to reflect that many changes to better help people have been made in the past year.
“Since the last time we celebrated Recovery Month, significant work has been done to build the Alberta Recovery Model,” Williams says.
“Having already funded more than 10,000 new addiction treatment spaces and expanding the Virtual Opioid Dependency Program, Alberta’s government has now opened three recovery communities.
“Just a few months ago, we announced one of the largest expansions ever to mental health services for children and youth,” he adds.
Recovery looks different for everyone, but the primary goal remains the same – to give people an opportunity to rebuild their lives and find fulfillment and purpose each day, he says.
Williams and the government are pleased with their leadership in mental health and addiction.
“We are proud of the work we are doing and the partnerships we are building,” says Williams.
“The world is watching Alberta as we expand services for treatment and recovery like no other jurisdictions.”
While numbers in other provinces remain significantly higher, in May 2024, Alberta marked the lowest month for opioid-related fatalities in more than four years.
“This positive trend is showing that with the right care and support, recovery is possible,” Williams says.
He reminds people that help for mental health and addictions is available.
“If you or someone you love is suffering from addiction or facing mental health challenges, don’t wait to reach out,” Williams says.
Help is available to those in need by calling Alberta 211, the Virtual Opioid Dependency Program or Counselling Alberta.
“Each one of those can connect you with the right care to support you in your pursuit of recovery,” Williams says.