Social Media and Illicit Drug Sales: One Click Away From Addiction

2025-01-27

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 »

Bell Let’s Talk 2025: Youth mental health, a priority

2025-01-22

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 integrated school program: Learning through recovery

2024-11-27

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 »

Five celebrities who transformed their lives by overcoming addiction

2024-11-7

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 »

Substance Use Treatment Techniques

2024-03-1

Our clinical counsellors play a vital role in our residents’ therapeutic journey. They are pillars of support for our residents as they progress through their therapy. Inspired by the expertise of a level 4 substance use clinical counsellor at Portage, this article explores the techniques used to accompany residents throughout their therapy.   Plan of… Read more »

Mental Health: The Great Quandary

2024-01-22

Ever since the Covid-19 pandemic, much has been said about the disastrous state of the population’s mental health. Mental health issues are thought to affect a large segment of society, and more specifically young people. Because the term mental health is so often misused, it is important to understand what it is and what it… Read more »

Celebrating Graduates Across Canada

2023-11-1

During the October 21-22 weekend, Portage celebrated its graduates at traditional Recognition Day ceremonies across Canada. More than 250 graduates received their diploma, symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.   50th Recognition Day Ceremony   Every year, Portage pays tribute to residents who have completed their residential program as well as… Read more »

The Dark Side of Dopamine: Pleasure, Drugs and Solutions

2023-08-25

the-dark-side-of-dopamine-pleasure-drugs-and-solutions

Dopamine plays a central role in our well-being and our ability to experience feelings of pleasure and motivation. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter; often referred to as the ʺhappy hormoneʺ, it is the focus of numerous studies in the fields of neuroscience, psychology and medicine. In this article, we look at the role of dopamine, how… Read more »