Substance use issues continue to be a priority concern for First Nations people in Canada. The issue is compounded by increasing needs due to easy to access drugs such as opioids and methamphetamines, which can result in mental health issues that often accompany substance use.
This section provides information on some of the substances used and why and offers support for First Nations people on their journey toward wellness. A guiding principle is recognizing that cultural practices and traditions are essential to the health and wellbeing of First Nations people, and that individuals, families, communities, service providers and governments have a shared responsibility to ensure effective and accessible supports are in place. (HOS)