Could substance use be hiding an attempt to survive? Adolescence and the transition to adulthood are often synonymous with instability and challenges. For many adolescents, hormonal changes, a desire for autonomy and the will to define oneself are intertwined with mental health issues. An increasing number of youth struggle with anxiety, depression or ADHD. Self-medication… Read more »
Insights from youth and counsellors In January of this year, we published an article uncovering an unsettling truth: social media has become the main gateway to substance use among youth. The problem has continued to grow since then and Portage has continued to delve further into the subject. This fall, we launched a series… Read more »
Concurrent disorders are among the most challenging issues in our health care system. Individuals who have both significant mental health problems and substance use disorders are often caught up in a maze of disjointed services that can, paradoxically, make things worse rather than better. What is a concurrent disorder? A concurrent disorder is when… Read more »
Over the past few years, alcohol consumption has decreased significantly in Canada, while non-alcoholic beverages have become increasingly popular. This shift in consumer habits can be attributed to health concerns, cultural changes and the increasing availability of quality alcohol-free products. Declining Alcohol Consumption According to Statistics Canada, total alcohol sales declined by 0.1% between… Read more »
On March 8, Portage marked International Women’s Rights Day, a perfect opportunity to reflect on the issues women face in various aspects of their lives. The issue of women and addiction is often misunderstood, not to mention taboo. Women often struggle with addiction on their own for fear of being stigmatized and judged and because… Read more »
The Portage Lac Écho Centre provides a space where young people can learn to rebuild their lives and lead a substance-free life. This article explores the positive impact of a rehabilitation program that blends education and therapy, based on the testimonial of a young resident and by Maura, a teacher at Portage. A Young Resident’s… Read more »
Over the past few years, more and more young people have been buying drugs through major social media platforms. Online access to drugs has become extremely easy and the overwhelming majority of dealers who supply substance-dependent youth operate via social networks. Quick Access to Increasingly Dangerous Substances The growth of social networks has… Read more »
While conversations about mental health have come a long way over the past few decades, there is still much work ahead. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, one in five Canadians experiences a mental health problem or illness each year, with youth being particularly vulnerable. In Canada, 1.25 million young people need mental health… Read more »
Portage’s educational program stands as a unique model that integrates academic achievement with therapeutic recovery. The program offers a specialized learning environment where residents receive individualized attention and support during class. Unlike traditional educational institutions, Portage’s integrated school program acknowledges the complex challenges the residents face and adapts its teaching methods accordingly. The program maintains… Read more »
Anyone can become addicted to drugs or alcohol, even celebrities. Some choose to speak openly about their road to recovery. Here are five celebrities who battled their demons and now offer hope and motivation to those who are still struggling. Bradley Cooper: I got sober at 29 years old, and you know, I’ve been sober… Read more »
