Drug Prevention Programs in Canada
The National Anti-Drug Strategy of Canada states that due to the availability of drugs, drug-related problems will somehow affect all Canadians. On a national level, Canada's Drug Strategy goal is to reduce the harmful effects of drug use on families, individuals and communities. This is being achieved through a combination of federal laws on drugs and drug prevention programs across the country.
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Function
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Drug prevention programs in Canada have a particular focus on preventing illegal drug use among Canadian youth. These programs provide information about drugs to parents, educators, young people, communities and law enforcement authorities. By implementing community-based programs and strategies, along with national awareness campaigns, drug prevention programs in Canada hope to give people enough resources to remain drug-free. The Government of Canada has allocated $30 million to fund the national Prevention Action Plan in an effort to make these prevention programs successful.
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Types
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There are Federal and Provincial drug prevention programs available to Canadians that help people on a national and regional level. For example, the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) offers its services to all of Canada, while the Ontario Drug Awareness Project aims to increase knowledge of drug abuse within the province of Ontario. Programs in Canada include youth-oriented programs, 12-step programs, programs for senior citizens, training and seminars.
Prevention/Solution
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The National Anti-Drug Strategy suggests that it is easier to help young people avoid drugs by gaining a better understanding of why they might use them. These reasons include curiosity, low self-esteem, rebellion, stress-coping mechanism, peer pressure or mental illness. By addressing these root issues with their children, parents are better equipped to help prevent their potential drug use. The result is that children will make smarter choices, and communities will suffer less impact from illegal drug use.
Considerations
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The Canadian government is taking steps to reduce drug-related crime and the distribution of illegal drugs. In 2009, proposed amendments to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) suggest a mandatory prison sentence for anyone caught producing or selling illegal drugs. These amendments include a two-year prison sentence for anyone caught dealing drugs like cocaine or heroin to young people. Those accused could face a suspended sentence by attending a drug treatment program that had been approved by a Drug Treatment Court.
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The National Anti-Drug Strategy of Canada estimates that $9 billion Canadian dollars are spent each year to handle substance abuse in Canada, including law enforcement, prosecution and incarceration. Drug Treatment Courts (DTCs) were formed to lower the cost of substance abuse, as well as reduce drug-related crime by court-monitored treatment for offenders. As part of the DTC, participants have individual and group counselling sessions and frequently appear before a judge, who reviews their progress.
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