Family and Community Support Services - Town of Drayton Valley
Family and Community Support Services - Town of Drayton Valley
Family and Community Support Services - Town of Drayton Valley
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Alcohol<br />
The most readily available drug in today’s society is alcohol. Although alcohol is legal,<br />
there are still risks associated with it. Alcohol is <strong>of</strong>ten thought <strong>of</strong> as a stimulant, because<br />
it lowers inhibitions, which could mean you may take chances you would not otherwise<br />
take. However, alcohol actually acts as a depressant on your central nervous system,<br />
slowing down brain functioning. So after that initial false sense <strong>of</strong> self-confidence <strong>and</strong><br />
wit, you may end up feeling not so cool <strong>and</strong> potentially quite depressed. Alcohol also<br />
remains the most common facilitator <strong>of</strong> sexual assaults. Binge drinking (in excess <strong>of</strong> 5<br />
drinks) puts individuals at higher risk for all crimes including sexual assault.<br />
Remember, you know yourself best. Treat yourself with care <strong>and</strong> respect <strong>and</strong> make<br />
informed choices.<br />
Marijuana<br />
Cannabis is the most widely used illegal drug in Canada <strong>and</strong> our community is no<br />
exception. Marijuana is not as ‘harmless’ as it was 25 years ago. THC content<br />
(psychoactive potency) in Marijuana cigarettes has increased significantly. For instance,<br />
in the 80’s content <strong>of</strong> THC was at 3%, increasing to 38% in the year 2000.<br />
• Marijuana is illegal<br />
• It does impair your judgment<br />
• An average joint contains more tar than a cigarette.<br />
•<br />
Club Drugs<br />
Ecstacy, Ketamine, Crystal Meth <strong>and</strong> other synthetic drugs have made their way to our<br />
community. In order to make informed choices you should know…<br />
• Addictions, especially to meth, are common, <strong>and</strong> related crimes are on the rise<br />
• Illegal drugs are not regulated (you never know for sure what you are getting)<br />
• Mixing these drugs with others can result in dangerous chemical reactions in<br />
your body, potentially resulting in death.<br />
• These drugs effect the body’s ability to regulate hydration possibly leading to death.<br />
Do you have questions or need assistance with the above<br />
mentioned topics? Here are some places to contact:<br />
Alberta Health <strong>Services</strong> – Addictions <strong>and</strong> Mental Health 780-542-5669<br />
<strong>Drayton</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> Office 780-542-7760<br />
Helping Albertans who have concerns about alcohol, tobacco, other drugs <strong>and</strong> gambling.<br />
Formerly known as AADAC.<br />
Al-Anon & Al-Ateen 780-894-3679<br />
Is someone else’s drinking affecting your life? 780-894-3679<br />
These support groups are for the friends <strong>and</strong> families <strong>of</strong> alcoholics.<br />
Crystal Meth Anonymous 780-235-1772<br />
<strong>Drayton</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>and</strong> Area Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) 780-621-0354<br />
United Church (basement) 24 hour # 780-542-8729<br />
5029 – 48 Street, <strong>Drayton</strong> <strong>Valley</strong><br />
<strong>Drayton</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> meetings are Fri – 7pm, Sat – 8pm, Sun – 8pm.<br />
Serving <strong>Drayton</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>and</strong> Area.<br />
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