Image Credit: First Nations Health Authority
northern addictions forum

Forum discussing impact of addictions and toxic drug crisis in Northern First Nations takes place next week

Mar 18, 2023 | 11:17 AM

PRINCE GEORGE — More than 200 elected Northern First Nations leaders and health workers will gather at the Prince George Conference and Civic Centre next week.

In a statement from the First Nations Health Authority, “First Nations leaders, health workers and others will be addressing the impact of addictions and the toxic drug crisis in First Nations communities in the Northern Region, while exchanging knowledge on the modern and traditional healing approaches that are currently available and needed to mitigate this ongoing Northern tragedy.”

Some of the topics of discussion at the forum will include “engagement on gaps in services for First Nations communities, stigma, land based healing approaches and treatment options and best practices.

There will be a keynote address from NHL player Jordin Tootoo who will be speaking about his personal experiences and struggles with addiction, and Dr. Gabor Maté, an expert in addictions, will also be speaking.