L’Unité Domrémy de Baie-Comeau has launched a new awareness campaign focused on the risks linked to five commonly used psychoactive substances, alcohol, cannabis, amphetamines, cocaine and opioids. The initiative was developed at the request of the regional public health authority, CISSS Côte-Nord, and is aimed especially at high school students and young adults. The organisation’s director general, Curby Charette Graveline, explains that many young people may not fully understand how these substances work or the harm they can cause. She describes the campaign as a necessary step in addressing rising use, particularly among 15 to 24 year olds.

The campaign uses posters and short informational videos to break down each substance into seven simple categories. These include what the substance is, how it is used, the street terms, what the immediate effects feel like and the risks that come with it. The materials also explain how dependence develops and offer practical tips on reducing harm. This approach reflects the organisation’s broadened mission. Even though Unité Domrémy continues to support people already living with addiction, it now sees prevention and early education as equally important.

The posters will be shared widely across the Côte-Nord region, including in schools, youth centres, mental health and addiction services and other community partners. The same information can be found in video format on the organisation’s Facebook and Instagram accounts. The launch coincides with Canada’s National Addiction Awareness Week, which runs from 16 to 22 November 2025. Unité Domrémy will publish one video per day, each dedicated to a different substance. They encourage people to share the content within their networks, since better knowledge can sometimes make the difference that protects someone from harm.

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