SURVEY, POSTER CONTEST HIGHLIGHT ADDICTIONS WEEK

Nov. 19 to 25 is National Addictions Awareness Week, a time to raise
awareness about substance use in our society and the negative impact
that drinking, drugging and smoking have in our communities.

This year the focus is on the threat crystal meth presents, both to
those who use it and the communities where this drug is manufactured
in clandestine labs. It has been suggested crystal meth is the most
dangerous drug to come along in years. It is highly addictive,
relatively cheap and produces a high that can last for hours. Some
have called it the "poor man's cocaine."

The Delta Youth Substance Use Committee, in conjunction with the
Kwantlen University College National Institute for Community
Development Research, is spearheading a survey of secondary school
students in Delta to ascertain the level of not just crystal meth use,
but all substance use among high school students.

In addition, the survey is studying the students' perception of harm
and benefits of using/drinking and seeks to identify factors that
influence whether an individual engages in substance.

This is the first substance use survey conducted in schools Delta-wide
in the last two decades. The results will be reported at a public
meeting next February and will be used to create a co-ordinated plan
for the delivery of substance use services in Delta.

A poster contest open to all secondary students, led by Deltassist,
is also being announced during National Addictions Awareness Week.
The theme is: Crystal Meth: The Deadly Drug. The work must be
original and done by hand. It can be in any medium, but no electronic
work will be accepted.

First prize is $500 and that work will be used as a poster to promote
awareness of crystal meth and its effects.

The deadline for entries is Jan. 26, 2007. For more information, see
www.deltassist.com or check with school counselling staff.

During National Addictions Awareness Week, Deltassist staff will be
providing information sessions to Grade 8 classes on the topic of
drugs and alcohol. These presentations focus on increasing an
understanding of drug types, their effects on the body, the harm
associated with using different drugs and alternate, healthy lifestyle
choices.

Another collaborative community initiative, led by Deltassist, is the
fifth annual "Remember Me" campaign. Delta liquor stores provide paper
bags to the Delta elementary schools for students to use the medium of
art to promote responsible alcohol use.

The bags are collected and returned to the stores, where they are used
during the pre-Christmas shopping period.

Last year over 2000 elementary students participated in this event,
which resulted in an increase of community (and students') awareness
about alcohol and its deadly consequences when used in an
irresponsible manner, such as drinking and driving.

Deltassist will be in Scottsdale Mall tomorrow promoting awareness of
alcohol and drug use issues. Among the activities will be the Wheel of
Misfortune, balloons for kids, quizzes and prizes, and information
about addictions and services available.

Deltassist provides free substance use counselling for people whose
lives have been impacted by substance use, their own or otherwise.
Youth are given priority for services. For more information about
services for alcohol and drug issues, call Deltassist at
604-594-3455.