Health Minister Terry Lake issued the following statement today in recognition of the Sept. 13, 2014, provincial proclamation of Recovery Day:

“Many individuals who battle with addiction have faced stigma and may be reluctant to openly declare that they are living in recovery.

“Recovery Day provides an opportunity to celebrate addiction recovery and helps break down barriers which prevent us from talking about how substance dependence can impact all members of society.

“It is important that we learn from our co-workers, family, friends and neighbours who have acknowledged they have a substance use problem and who are working towards recovery and that we ensure all members of society are aware of the available tools and resources should they find themselves in a position of needing help.

“Our government is committed to providing the best supports for people facing challenges associated with mental illness and substance use. Healthy Minds, Healthy People - B.C.’s 10-year mental health and substance use plan - is a road map to improving mental health, reducing problematic substance use and addressing mental illness for all British Columbians through prevention, early intervention, treatment, harm reduction and sustainability.

“In 2012-13, government invested approximately $1.3 billion in mental health and substance use services and we recently announced an additional $20.25 million for health authorities for community programs and supports for those with addiction. Building on this, we recently announced an additional $3 million, in partnership with Dr. Evan Wood, to expand and support the foundations for a provincial Network for Excellence in Substance Dependence and Related Harms.

“We know it takes all of us - government, health-care providers, communities, individuals and families - to work together to address the significant health and social impacts of problematic substance use and addiction and we will continue to support British Columbians who struggle with addiction and mental illness.

“I want to thank the communities and individuals participating in Recovery Day today. Your commitment to celebrating recovery brings addiction out of the shadows.”

For more information, visit: http://www.health.gov.bc.ca/healthy-minds

To learn more about Recovery Day 2014, and for detailed information about participating B.C. communities and local activities, please visit: www.recoveryday.ca

Media Contacts:

Kristy Anderson
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 818-6510