Overcoming addiction is extremely difficult for anyone caught in its trap, whether it's for cannabis or any other substance. Yet, in most cases, the same pattern can be observed. There are many ways to break free from addiction and they all share the same goal: helping people return to a happy, productive life.
The addiction cycle and how to break it
Addiction to something, whether it be to cigarettes, alcohol, other drugs, or to certain behaviours (shopping, gambling, pornography, etc.), is hardly ever experienced as something pleasurable by a person who suffers from addiction, but rather, as a form of enslavement. Consuming substances, or chronically repeating a behaviour, is no longer a choice that can be controlled through willpower.
As soon as a person has entered into an addiction cycle, they feel incapable of breaking free, without really knowing why.
From Pot Smoker to Lamplighter
I was fourteen when I smoked my first joint. I lived in an outlying region and it was our way of having fun among friends on the weekend. During the week, I studied hard, I got good grades, I was into sports and I had a good social life.
Five years later, I decided to pack up and head to Montreal. I did all sorts of small jobs, and though I had few opportunities to play sports, I had more and more opportunities to smoke pot. At the time, I thought pot helped me relax and it quickly became a daily routine. And, of course, the people I hung out with with were regular smokers too.
Seven Ways to Start Talking About Drugs With a Teenager
It’s not easy for parents to start a conversation about drugs with their children. But youths become vulnerable targets as soon as they set foot in school, where they quickly meet people who use drugs. That’s why parents must take the time to discuss this matter with their children.
Sure, drug use is sometimes a taboo and difficult subject, but keep in mind that your child has probably already been in contact with people who use drugs, to varying degrees of severity.
Portage Blog
Portage’s integrated school program: Learning through recovery
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 »
From the Abyss to the Light: My Journey at Portage
I’d like to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the guidance and support I received during my drug rehab therapy at the Portage program for mental health and addiction. It was not an easy journey, but thanks to the program and the staff’s guidance, patience and knowledge of mental health issues, I… Read more »
Moisson Montréal awards the Volunteer Ambassador Award to Patrick Lord from the Portage Day Centre
On October 30, 2024, Moisson Montréal celebrated 40 years of solidarity and support in the fight against food insecurity at its Recognition Gala at the Montréal Casino. This landmark event brought together 300 guests, including donors, partners, volunteers, as well as committed employees and ambassadors who have actively contributed to Moisson Montréal’s mission for four… Read more »
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