This week marks National Addictions Awareness Week, a time to bring attention to the complex challenges of addiction and to highlight the importance of prevention, treatment, and recovery.
Addiction is a struggle faced by many individuals and families, affecting physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By fostering open conversations and reducing the stigma, we create pathways for understanding and healing.
This year’s theme for National Addictions Awareness Week focuses on forging connections. It reminds us that recovery is not just possible—it’s achievable with the right support systems, compassion and resources. Whether you are someone directly experiencing addiction or supporting a loved one, it is vital to know that help is available.
Resources in the Central West Region
If you or someone you know needs support, the Central West Healthline offers a comprehensive list of resources tailored to those dealing with addiction. These resources include support groups, residential facilities, and information lines.
From counseling services to rehabilitation programs, the tools for recovery are at your fingertips. Explore the resources available at Central West Healthline and take the first step toward building a healthier future:
CW OHT Partner Highlights
There are multiple partner organizations of the Central West Ontario Health Team that support individuals and loved ones that are challenged with addiction.
Together, we can break down barriers and promote a culture of care and recovery.
Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Peel Dufferin
The Canadian Mental Health Association Peel Dufferin hosts The Rapid Access Addiction Medicine Clinic (RAAM Clinic), which provides low-barrier immediate access and care for substance use management.
The clinic is accessible without appointments or medical referrals. The RAAM Clinic staff will share with you all possible substance use management strategies including medications and psychosocial interventions to ensure a holistic approach.
They recommend new clients attend the clinic during walk-in hours, available here. Call 905-451-2123, ext. 2 or 1-877-451-2123, ext. 2 for more information.
CMHA Peel Dufferin also offers Recovery West, a peer support program offering drop-in peer support, groups, vocational services, and a Recovery College. Recovery West is open to those 16 and older, living with mental health and/or addiction concerns. This program supports people living in Peel Region, Dufferin County, North Etobicoke, and West Woodbridge
CMHA Peel Dufferin also offers a Translation of Information resource in Chinese, French, Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu and Polish.
Peel Addiction Assessment and Referral Centre (PAARC)
PAARC provides services to people who are concerned with their own or someone else’s involvement with alcohol, drugs, gambling, gaming and other select behavioural dependencies. They also provide programs and services for those living with mental health challenges.
They offer a variety of programs and services for those experiencing challenges related to addiction, including individual counselling, group counselling, housing support, withdrawal management, drug treatment courses, family and friends support, and more.
For more information, click here.
William Osler Health System – Addiction Services
William Osler Health System offers comprehensive addiction services, including a Withdrawal Management Centre and addiction counselling services for those 16 and older.
They also offer youth addiction counselling services, specifically designed for those 16-24 years of age. This offers referrals to age-appropriate treatment, individual and group therapy, and appointments in the community (e.g. home, school), as needed.
Canadian Addiction Treatment Centres (CATC)
Canadian Addiction Treatment Centres offer multiple Addiction Treatment Programs including Outpatient Treatment, Inpatient Treatment, Virtual Treatment, Hepatitis C Treatment and Harm Reduction Services. They also have many useful Opioid Addiction Resources.
There is no waitlist for treatment—they offer same-day start for new patients. Patients are accepted by phone, email and walk-in. Find our more information or get in touch here.
Services and Housing In the Province (SHIP)
Service and Housing In the Province (SHIP), a respected health service and housing support provider, promotes Healthy Housing by forming lasting relationships with landlords and developers. They advocate mental and physical health services through in-house service teams and partnerships with community-based agencies, including Assertive Community Treatment Teams.
Other Helplines:
24-7 Crisis Support Peel
905-278-9036
Toronto Distress Line
416-408-4357
Peel Region Distress Line
905-278-7208
Spectra Help Line (multilingual)
905-459-7777
Alcoholics Anonymous
416-487-5591
Cocaine Anonymous
1-866-622-4636
Narcotics Anonymous
1-888-811-3887
Gamblers Anonymous
416-366-7613
Al-Anon
1-888-425-2666
English 
French