OPEN HOUSE AIMS TO INCREASE AWARENESS OF LOCAL RESOURCES

Finding help to deal with addictions could be as easy as going to an
upcoming open house.

The open house on Nov. 19 at 3:30 p.m. will be attended by local
groups with addiction resources available throughout the Central Okanagan.

Participants include Kelowna's Gospel Mission, the Okanagan Boys and
Girls Clubs, the Canadian Mental Health Association, the John Howard
Society, Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous, the Regional District of
Central Okanagan (RDCO), Karis Support Services and ARC Programs.

RDCO drug policy co-ordinator Christene Walsh said the event is being
held to make people aware of the services and supportive programs
available to manage and overcome addictions.

The open house is being held at the CMHA Wellness Centre at 504
Sutherland Avenue.

A panel presentation on stimulant abuse will be held at 5 p.m., with a
question and answer period following.

"Stimulant abuse can run from the hard drugs like cocaine and crystal
meth, right through to caffeine and energy drinks," said Walsh.

She added that the open house is hosted by a group of recovery home
service providers, with the goal of raising awareness of what
resources are available.

"I think awareness never hurts," said Walsh. "I have been to community
events where some of the general public will indicate they have no
idea of what's going on."

Walsh pointed out that often people will not seek out such resources
unless they have a need.

She noted that cocaine and marijuana addiction are probably the most
common in the area for illegal drugs, but noted alcohol remains one of
the most abused substances due to its legal status.

"I think alcohol will always be number one... When there's a call for
domestic violence, often you will see alcohol was one of the
precipitating factors. Even though it's legal, for some it can be a
serious drug of concern."

Terra LeClair, director of women's recovery at Kelowna's Gospel
Mission, said people with addiction issues can be family members,
friends, co-workers and members of the community.

"Education and services are key to overcoming problems, and to
overcome the stigma that often surrounds addiction issues."