Substance Use Health Strategy

The Substance Use Health Strategy (SUHS) is a strategy to address the needs of people impacted by substance (i.e. drug) use. The strategy is based on prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and community safety. It is being developed by a team of both people with lived substance use experience, and representatives from local organizations. These organizations operate in the health, social services, law enforcement or education sectors in the City of Cornwall, Akwesasne and the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry.

The strategy includes:

• Gathering information and input from the community about local issues related to substance use, and how to address them.
• Developing ways to address substance use issues in the EOHU region that are based on evidence and best practices.
• Identifying services, programs, and interventions that are currently available, and areas where more programs and support may be needed.
• Working with partner organizations to coordinate programs and fill gaps where needs aren’t being met.   
• Sharing key messages and educating the public to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
• Advocating for practice and policy changes to address both regional issues and beyond.

Community consultation

From mid-June to the end of July 2023, the SUHS committee conducted a survey to better understand the concerns of people who have used or are using substances, and their family members, friends, and caregivers. The purpose of the survey was to identify gaps in services for people who use, or are at risk of using substances, and to find possible solutions to reduce the risk of drug poisonings (i.e. overdose), as well as other harms associated with substance use. Survey responses will help to guide the development of the strategy.

The following document provides a summary of the survey results:

• Substance Use Health Strategy Consultation: What We Heard

Where to go for help:

• AccessMHA to find mental health and/or addiction services near you and to book a follow up call from a member of the AccessMHA team. Please note that this service is for individuals that are 16 years of age or older.
• 1Call1Click or call 1-877-377-7775 to help infants, children and youth from birth to 21 years of age. This program connects local children, youth and families to the right mental health, substance use and addiction services to meet their specific needs.
• ConnexOntario or call 1-866-531-2600 to view or hear a list of services that are available locally.
• Mental Health Crisis Line by calling 1-866-996-0991.