Harms associated with substance use

Your Health

What is a drug?

A drug is any substance that changes the way our mind and/or body works. People use substances either for enjoyment, or to reduce anxiety, depression, and pain, or to cope with stress and trauma. Understanding and reducing the risks associated with substance use helps individuals make safer choices, fosters healthier communities, reduces healthcare and social costs, and supports a more compassionate and educated society.

In 2020, the cost of substance use in Canada – health care, lost productivity, criminal justice, and other direct costs – was estimated to be $49.1 billion – or about $1,291 spent for every Canadian regardless of age. Almost 63% of the total costs were due to alcohol and tobacco.

How Does Lambton County Compare to the Rest of Ontario?

Substance use data is collected through various local, provincial, and national surveys. In a 2019 local survey, the following were identified:

  • Lambton County residents experience higher rates of use and harms from drugs and alcohol across a variety of the indicators that were examined. Lambton Public Health co-chairs the Lambton Drug and Alcohol Strategy, which is a partner-led approach to addressing the harms associated with substance use locally. For more information visit Lambton’s Drug and Alcohol Strategy.
  • On average, Lambton residents are more likely than Ontario residents to exceed Canada’s Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines (now known as Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health).
  • Lambton residents are more likely to visit the emergency department for substance-related issues and to be prescribed opioids.
  • Lambton rates for those admitted into publicly-funded substance use treatment programs and opioid agonist therapy are significantly higher than the provincial average.

For more information on substance use and related harms on your health, contact your health care provider and ask how a reduction in use could have positive impacts.

Types of Substances

Finding Help

Think about your life and whether the substances you use are having a negative impact on you or the people around you.

If you think you might have a problem with tobacco, alcohol or other drugs:

If you think someone you care about has a problem with tobacco, alcohol or other drugs:

  • Be kind to that person
  • Know how to have a conversation about substance use
  • Know how to help and support that person

If you are a parent supporting a child:

Resources