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One of the worst things about addiction is its tendency and ability to lurk in the dark…

Oftentimes, people go for days, weeks, and even years, with an addiction without anyone having any idea what is going on. They might show a few signs at first, but the outsiders aren’t sure what is going on until it eventually comes to light.

It seems to be a topic that not many people like to talk about…

It is like jealousy – the ugly green monster. It is there, and people know it is there, but nobody wants to talk about it because it is a sad topic.

We often hear about addiction in other countries, in popstars, or people we don’t know. The opioid crisis in the United States right now is one that can’t seem to stay out of the news.

But, what about addiction right at home?

The solution to the problem starts by addressing it right at home, in our own area.

And, the opioid crisis is not just reserved to the United States – it has taken a toll on Canada, too.

Statistics

Recently, an article was published on the Canadian Institute for Health Information site and it detailed just exactly what addiction looks like in Canada:

“This is a major public health crisis in Canada,” says Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada’s chief public health officer. “Tragically, in 2016, there were more than 2,800 apparent opioid-related deaths in Canada, which is greater than the number of Canadians who died at the height of the HIV epidemic in 1995.”

And, new data – provided by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) – shows that at least 602 opioid-related deaths occurred across the country just from January to March 2017. Unfortunately, this number is expected to rise.

Here are some hard facts to ponder:

• Each day in Canada, an average of 16 patients are hospitalized for an opioid poisoning. This number has increased 19 percent from the 2014-2015 hospitalization rate.
• Over the past ten years in Canada, the rate of hospitalization from opioid poisoning has increased by 53 percent. And, of this 53 percent increase, 40 percent of it has occurred just over the past 3 years.
• In Canada, the fastest-growing rate of hospitalizations due to opioid poisoning occur among the 15 to 24 age group.

As much as we don’t want to hear it, the problem affects us all. It is everywhere. So, rather than spending our time talking about how much worse others have it or labeling those struggling, spend time trying to help your community through volunteer service, education, and leading by example.

Together, we can beat this.

When it comes to addiction recovery, you always have to be on the lookout for new activities to engage in. You need to keep yourself busy and also teach yourself how to live a “normal life” again.

One of the best ways to celebrate your addiction recovery is actually to go try out new activities that you normally might have missed out on. You are on your way to a better life so go enjoy what you have been missing out on all this time!

The province of Alberta is a great place to be if you are recovering from an addiction. With the majestic rivers, wide-open prairies, and the rolling rivers, there is always a place to just relax and enjoy the beautiful world around you.

 

If you live in the area or even are just visiting, here are a few fun and healthy activities you should try:

1. Royal Tyrrell Museum
   The Royal Tyrell Museum comes in at one of the largest museums in the world – even housing some of the best dinosaur displays there are.Now that you have a clear mind – it is no longer fogged by drugs and alcohol – you can put it to good use learning about some of the ancient artifacts the museum boasts.
2. Banff Upper Hot SpringsThis location is open year round! At this beautiful location, you can slip right into the warm water of the Banff Upper Hot Springs and take in the beautiful views that surround it.

   This is a great must-see for those recovering from addiction because the warmth of the water is a soothing and relaxing experience you won’t soon forget.

   The crystal clear water is 100% natural mineral water which travels into the earth’s crust, is heated and pressurized, and then comes back to the surface for visitors to enjoy.

3. Red Rock CanyonThis area is a true gem in the southwestern corner of Alberta. The beautiful views of the rising peaks and the prairie grassland just cannot be beaten.

   This is a great way to get some exercise (which is a great hobby for addiction recovery) and to check another Alberta must-see off your list!

4. Icefields ParkwayIf you are looking for a jaw-dropping experience, you won’t want to miss Icefields Parkway.

   The scenic stops along the way will have you completely mesmerized – from the glaciers to the wildlife to the lakes and the towering mountains.  It is quite the exhilarating drive!