National Addictions Awareness Week November 15-21, 2026

Nov 13, 2026

National Addictions Awareness Week (NAAW) is November 15-21, 2026. NAAW highlights solutions that help address the harms related to the use of alcohol and other drugs. It provides an opportunity for people in Canada to learn more about prevention and harm reduction, talk about treatment and recovery, and discuss solutions for change.

Working in the substance use health field and addressing its challenges can result in different experiences, ideas and opinions for individuals, families and communities. At times, it can be challenging to agree on the best ways to address these issues in Canada. Hope is an optimistic state of mind that holds expectations for positive outcomes.

Exploring and discussing substance use health can lead to positive outcomes such as connections and growth. Yet the challenges and grief in the field cannot be unstated. In recent years, tens of thousands of people from across Canada have died because of the unpredictable drug supply. We need effective, holistic, whole-of-government and community action that is rooted in evidence and compassion. We need to work together to identify and reach common goals. And more than anything else, we need hope — hope for a brighter future with improved health and wellness of all people living in Canada.