Substance Use Problems

British Columbia Specific Information

If you or someone you know if affected by alcohol or drug use, counselling services are available for individual, families and small group of all ages.

These services are confidential and offered throughout B.C. for those who are directly or indirectly affected by alcohol and other drug use.

To access support, contact the BC Alcohol and Drug Information and Referral Service:  

Find mental health and substance use support near you or contact your local health authority.

For more information, visit HereToHelp and the Centre for Addictions Research of BC (CISUR).

Learning Center

Learn about substance use disorders

Using drugs or alcohol in a way that harms you or that leads you to harm others, like your family or friends, is called substance use disorder. It can range from mild to severe. Moderate to severe substance use disorder is sometimes called addiction. This disorder can develop from the use of almost any type of substance. This includes alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, illegal drugs, prescription medicines, and over-the-counter medicines. If you think you might have a substance use disorder, our topics can give you the support you need to help you quit. And if you're worried about someone else, you can find tips in our topics for providing support to others.