Substance Use, Addictions & Related Behaviours

Teachers play an important role in educating students about substance use, addictions and related behaviours. Prevention messages are most effective when shared with students early in life.

The following resources can be used by teachers in the classroom or to support school initiatives. For questions, contact our Client and Community Support Call Centre at 1-800-265-7293 ext. 7006 (M-F, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.) or emailclientcommunitysupport@wdgpublichealth.ca.

Community Programs and Services

Here 24/7

Intake line to addictions, mental health and crisis services in Waterloo Wellington. Services are available for children, youth and adults. Call 1-844-HERE-247 or visit here247.ca.

Kids Help Phone

Telephone and online confidential counselling and referrals for children and youth. Call 1-800-668-6868 or visitkidshelpphone.ca.

MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving)

MADD provides educational programs to prevent drug and alcohol-related automobile crashes, for Grade 8.

Weed Out the Risk

An educational program to address road safety risks of driving under the influence of marijuana for youth drivers.

Recommended Websites

CANNABIS 

  • Talking About Weed: A local evidence-based campaign to raise awareness about the health effects of cannabis use among youth and adults. It features videos, links to local resources and supports, and information on ways to reduce health risks associated with cannabis use. For grades 9-12.
  • Talking Pot with Youth (PDF): A communication guide to help adults understand the youth perspective and practical ways to have a supportive conversation about cannabis with youth. For grades 9-12.

E-CIGARETTES 

TOBACCO 

OTHER SUBSTANCES 

Information on Prescription Opioids (PDF, 4 pages, 630 KB)

Information sheet for educators on prescription opioids (including fentanyl), developed by School Mental Health-Assist and The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health.

A free, classroom-based substance abuse prevention curriculum for Grades 7 and 8 that is proven to reduce the experimental and continual use of drugs among students. Includes online teacher training, lesson plans, posters, videos, and newsletters.

Talking with Teenagers about Drugs

This Government of Canada webpage includes tips for talking with teens about drugs, information about cannabis, prescription drugs and other substances, and links to additional resources.