Substance Awareness
At the University of Alberta, we prioritize substance use awareness and prevention to promote the well-being of all members of our community. We are committed to fostering responsible and healthy behavior regarding substance use through a range of programs and initiatives. Our community members can access various resources and support services to make informed decisions and avoid the potential negative impacts of substance abuse.
Substance Use Health + Harm Reduction
Alcohol and substances are viewed and discussed through a harm reduction lens. This approach aims to reduce the negative consequences of consuming alcohol and substances by providing information and protective strategies to lower the risk of harm. Knowing information about alcohol and substances, the risks, and how it affects us or those around us is part of creating a supportive campus community.
Need Help Now?
Urgent support resources for students at risk.
If there is an immediate risk of harm to persons or property, call 911
Definition of Alcohol + Substances
A drug is a substance that alters someone’s mental, emotional, or physical state. Knowing information about alcohol and substances and its effects, allows you to make informed decisions for yourself. Alcohol and/or drug use become problematic when they cause harm to yourself or others.
Spectrum of Use: Alcohol + Substances
Alcohol and substance use exists on a spectrum from beneficial use, casual/low-risk use, high risk/harmful use, and chronic dependence/substance use disorder. Viewing alcohol and substance use in a spectrum allows us to better meet people where they’re at, and provide suitable health information and harm reduction.
Signs of High-Risk Substance Use
How can you tell if your substance use is high-risk? Some signs of high-risk substance use include:
- Inability to stop, even though your use is negatively affecting your life
- Developing a tolerance
- Using more of the substance to get "high" or become intoxicated
- Having cravings or strong urges for the substance
- Sickness when trying to stop, sometimes known as withdrawal
- Negative impact on relationships with family, friends, significant others, work etc.
Finding Support
Wellness Supports
Website
Ph: 780-492-1619
University Health Centre
Website
Ph: 780-492-2612
Counselling + Clinical Services
Website
Ph: 780-492-5205
Harm Reduction Information
Information about specific substances
Overdose Prevention + Response
Call 911 immediately and then call University of Alberta Protective Services (UAPS: 780-492-5050) when it is safe to do so.
Stay on the line with 911 and stay with the person (e.g., do not leave to fetch a Naloxone kit). While you await an emergency response, ensure your own safety and take direction from the 911 call-taker. This may include trying to wake the person, checking for an open airway, safely providing rescue breaths or chest compressions, or placing them in a recovery position. 911 will dispatch emergency responders immediately to provide nasal NARCAN and first aid. Emergency services will take over upon their arrival.
Find Naloxone Kits
The Naloxone Kits are available at the University Health Centre Pharmacy and other Edmonton pharmacy locations.
Individuals seeking Naloxone are encouraged to contact their local pharmacy to confirm availability. Visits are confidential with any information collected according to the guidelines of the Health Information Act (HIA).
Remember that if you are witness to an overdose, call 911 immediately.
Cannabis Use at the University of Alberta
Cannabis and cannabis oil are legal for recreational use in Canada, including Alberta. Learn more about University of Alberta regulations regarding the consumption of cannabis.
Student Recovery Community Initiative
The U of A Student Recovery Community supports students in recovery or contemplating it, helping them transition from surviving to thriving at university.