Harm Reduction
Not everyone is at a point in their self-directed recovery journey where they are ready to fully abstain from use. In these cases, it is extremely important to engage with harm reduction services and resources in order to protect yourself from potential drug poisoning or substance use related harms. Remember, you should always avoid using alone. Below are helpful harm reduction resources.
Harm Reduction Resources
National Overdose Response Service (NORS)
NORS offers 24/7, peer led virtual supervised consumption services. Peers are also available to lend an ear over the phone, answer any questions, offer support, and provide resources. The line is completely anonymous.Masimo Opioid Halo
The Masimo Opioid Halo is an opioid overdose alert device that connects to your mobile phone. It audibly alerts you if you are slipping into an overdose, and emergency contacts and services can be called in case of emergency.Consumption and Treatment Services (CTS)
Consumption and treatment services are a vital harm reduction approach that offers supervised consumption services alongside various wraparound supports, such as substance use, mental health, and primary care treatment. Visit the Ottawa Public Health site below for a full list of CTS in Ottawa.Treatment-Based Services
The following are resources and services for those who are interested in seeking treatment for their substance use and/or mental health concerns.
Treatment-Based Services Resources
AccessMHA
AccessMHA simplifies the process of finding mental health, substance use, and addiction care by connecting you with a trained professional who will help you navigate the support you need.ConnexOntario
ConnexOntario is a free, confidential service that offers information, resources, and recommendations on mental health and substance use services within your community.Drug Rehab Service
Drug Rehab Services offers free and confidential support to people who use substances and are looking to abstain from use. They can help connect you to substance use supports in your area and provide helpful information on the process of rehab.Montfort Renaissance
For those in Ontario looking to discuss and explore potential treatment options. Visit their website for more information.Upstream Ottawa’s Substance Abuse Program for African Canadian and Caribbean Youth
This is a program connecting Black youth with Black Clinicians.Breaking free online
An online tool (website/app) that is designed to empower those looking to make changes to their substance use and become healthier through lifestyle changes, alerting users of risky situations, meditations and tools to guide them. This support is free. Use access code CAPSA2020 to sign up.Support Groups
Here are support groups for people who use drugs that are available online and in-person.