Residential Withdrawal Management Service
Rapid Access Addiction Medicine (RAAM) Clinic
What is Addiction?
People use alcohol and other drugs for many reasons:
- to help relax
- to feel more energetic
- to feel less inhibited
- to feel pleasure
- to cope with problems
- for religious purposes
- to fit in with the crowd
- curiosity
No one plans to become addicted. People may think they can handle their substance use and maintain control of it. Yet when they want to change the way they use, they may find it’s more difficult than they initially thought.
Because substance use is common, it’s important to be able to see when a person’s use puts them at risk of developing a problem.
Addiction is a condition in which an individual continues to engage in the use of a substance or behaviour, despite negative consequences.
The Substance Use Continuum
The Substance Use Continuum is a framework that categorizes the progression of substance use behaviors, ranging from non-use to dependent use. The continuum provides a way to understand the varying levels of substance involvement and the potential risks associated with each stage:
The Substance Use Continuum is a framework that categorizes the progression of substance use behaviors, ranging from non-use to dependent use. The continuum provides a way to understand the varying levels of substance involvement and the potential risks associated with each stage:
- Non-Use: The individual does not use substances.
- Experimental Use: The individual tries substances out of curiosity, often in a social setting, with limited and sporadic use.
- Recreational/Social Use: Substance use occurs in social situations or for recreational purposes, with control over the frequency and amount of use.
- Problematic Use: The individual engages in substance use that increases the risk of harmful consequences, such as health issues, impaired judgment, or legal problems, but may not yet have developed a substance use disorder.
- Dependent Use: At this stage, substance use becomes compulsive and leads to significant impairment in various aspects of life, including health, relationships, and responsibilities. This stage may include mild, moderate, or severe disorder, depending on the intensity and impact of the use.
The continuum highlights that substance use exists on a spectrum, with the potential for escalation or reduction depending on various factors, including intervention and support.
Understanding this continuum can aid in identifying early signs of problematic use and implementing appropriate prevention or treatment strategies.
There are several signs that a person’s use of substances is risky or has become a problem, which can be broken down into “the 4 Cs” Consequences, Cravings, Compulsion, and loss of Control.
The harms of substance use can range from mild (e.g., feeling hungover, being late for work) to severe (e.g., homelessness, disease). While each time a person uses a substance may seem to have little impact, the harmful consequences can build up over time. If a person continues to use despite the harmful consequences, they may have a substance use problem.
The harms of substance use can affect every aspect of a person’s life, such as:
- injuries while under the influence
- feelings of anxiety, irritability, or depression
- trouble thinking clearly
- blackouts
- problems with relationships
- spending money on substances rather than on food, rent or other essentials
- legal problems related to substance use
- loss of hope, feelings of emptiness
They can also extend to the person’s family, friends, co-workers and even strangers (e.g., when someone drives while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs). (CAMH, 2024): Addiction | CAMH
Craving is a powerful and uncontrollable desire that people experience towards their substance or behaviour of choice. A craving is an intense need that can overshadow all other priorities. Unlike a casual craving, such as wanting a specific food, the craving in addiction is relentless and consuming. When not satisfied, it can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms that can be debilitating.
Compulsion refers to the irresistible urge to engage in the addictive behavior, despite being aware of the negative repercussions. Initially, the behavior might have been a choice, but as addiction progresses, it becomes an unyielding compulsion. This is more than just a habit – it’s an overwhelming need to use and a belief that that life without the substance or behavior seems unmanageable.
This reflects a person’s diminishing ability to limit or regulate their addictive behavior. What might have started as a controlled intake or occasional indulgence spirals out of control. They may break promises to themselves or loved ones about cutting down or stopping.
What is a Concurrent Disorder?
The term concurrent disorders is used to refer to co-occurring addiction and mental health concerns.
People often ask, “which came first: the mental health problem or the substance use problem?” This is a hard question to answer. It’s more useful to think of them as independent problems that interact with each other and can affect and influence each other in several ways:
- Substance use can worsen mental health symptoms.
- Substance use can mimic or hide the symptoms of mental health problems.
- Sometimes people use substances to manage and alleviate their symptoms of mental health problems.
- Some substances can influence the effectiveness of mental health medications
- Using substances can make people forget to take their medications.
- When a person relapses with one problem, it can trigger the symptoms of the other problem.
CAMH (2024): Concurrent Disorders; cooccurring mental health and substance use | CAMH
Current evidence suggests that people typically have better outcomes when problematic symptoms of mental health and addiction are addressed and treated at the same time, in a coordinated and integrated approach. Individuals could participate in psychosocial treatments (individual or group therapy) or biological treatments (medications) or a combination of both, which is typically recommended, to achieve improved outcomes. The treatment approach is collaboratively determined with the individual and their clinical team, based on the type and severity of the problems.
If you, or someone you know is experiencing a concurrent disorder, please speak to your primary care provider or reach out to the following organizations:
CMHA Home – CMHA Simcoe County (cmhastarttalking.ca)
Waypoint: Georgianwood Program for Concurrent Disorders – Waypoint (waypointcentre.ca)
CAMH: Concurrent Disorders; cooccurring mental health and substance use | CAMH
When to Seek Addiction Treatment
Making the decision to seek help for an addiction to alcohol or other drugs is a significant step. Whether you are considering treatment for yourself or for someone you care about, finding the right treatment is crucial. This guide offers information about various treatment options and will assist you in preparing to discuss getting help for alcohol or drug use with an addiction or healthcare provider.
Myth: Treatment is only effective after “hitting rock bottom.”
Fact: Early intervention often yields better outcomes and can prevent the significant losses associated with “hitting rock bottom.”
Choosing to enter treatment is a personal decision. Many people seek treatment when the negative consequences of drinking or drug use outweigh the positive, short-term effects. However, treatment can also benefit those who believe their alcohol or drug use is only a minor issue.
Personal Self Assessment
One widely recognized and common self-assessment tool to help better understand and assess if your alcohol or substance use is becoming problematic is the 4Cs.
4Cs – Craving, Compulsion, Control, and Consequences.
Craving is a powerful and uncontrollable desire that people experience towards their substance or behaviour of choice. A craving is an intense need that can overshadow all other priorities. Unlike a casual craving, such as wanting a specific food, the craving in addiction is relentless and consuming. When not satisfied, it can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms that can be debilitating.
Compulsion refers to the irresistible urge to engage in the addictive behavior, despite being aware of the negative repercussions. Initially, the behavior might have been a choice, but as addiction progresses, it becomes an unyielding compulsion. This is more than just a habit – it’s an overwhelming need to use, and a belief that that life without the substance or behavior is unmanageable.
This reflects a person’s diminishing ability to limit or regulate their addictive behaviour. What might have started as a controlled intake or occasional indulgence spirals out of control. They may break promises to themselves or loved ones about cutting down or stopping.
The final “C” is for consequences. A person struggling with addiction continues to engage in the addictive behavior despite knowing the harmful consequences. These consequences can be physical, emotional, social, or legal. For example, someone may continue drinking even though they know it is causing health problems, straining family relationships, and impacting their job.
Your Initial Assessment from a Professional
Most addiction and healthcare providers will start by evaluating whether you have a problem with alcohol or other drugs. They might use a screening tool or checklist and ask questions about your substance use. Examples of questions they may ask include:
- How much and how often do you use alcohol or other drugs?
- Do you find it difficult to reduce or stop using?
- Do you experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop using?
- Do you continue to use despite physical or mental health problems?
- Is your substance use negatively impacting other areas of your life, such as relationships, work, school, or social activities?
Receiving an Assessment
If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s alcohol or drug use, a full assessment by an addiction or healthcare provider with specialized training in substance use treatment is recommended.
Who Can Help?
It can be difficult to reduce or stop using alcohol or drugs. You will have a better chance of reaching your goals if there are people in your life who support and encourage you.
Mental Health and Addictions Professionals can help you develop a recovery plan so that you can build a healthier life.
- Addiction Counsellors
- Medical doctors (M.D.)
- Addiction Medicine Specialists (M.D.)
- Psychiatrists (M.D.)
- Licensed/registered psychologists (Ph.D., Psy.D., M.A., M.Sc., MMFT)
- Licensed/registered social workers (B.S.W. or M.S.W.)
- Licensed/registered psychotherapists (R.P.)
- Nurse/nurse practitioners
- National Native Alcohol and Drug Abuse Program (NNADAP) workers
- figure out if you are dependent on alcohol/drugs
- set and reach goals
- find information about alcohol/drugs
- work through issues you are dealing with
- learn how to tell others what you need
- learn how to recognize and deal with your feelings
- figure out your interests
- cope when you crave alcohol/drugs
- deal with your relationships
- get connected to your community
Other professionals, individuals, and groups in your community can also offer support and help connect you to resources. The following are examples of possible supports that can help you or your loved ones in making meaningful, sustainable changes:
- Peer support groups (e.g., 12-step programs, SMART Recovery)
- Family support groups
- Employee assistance programs through your employer
- School guidance counselors
- Spiritual or cultural leaders
Research demonstrates that it is important to surround yourself with people who can support you to make positive changes. They can include your family, friends, neighbours, co-workers, religious leaders, and other professionals.
Connecting with others can help you:
- have strong, positive relationships
- take part in social and recreational opportunities
- find employment
- eat healthy food
- get a quality education
- find safe housing options
As you begin to make changes to your use and lead a healthier life, an addictions counsellor, social worker, psychotherapist or other mental health and addictions professional can help you adjust to the changes and ensure your ability to maintain them.
Treatment Options for Substance Use and Addiction
Addressing substance use and addiction involves a variety of treatment options tailored to individual goals. Each person’s experience is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Some individuals may aim for complete abstinence, while others might focus on managing or reducing their consumption. Alternatively, some may prefer a harm reduction approach to minimize risks associated with substance use. Additionally, some individuals may seek to address underlying emotional issues contributing to their addiction and find alternative coping strategies.
Myth: For treatment to work, you must genuinely want it.
Fact: Professionals who specialize in treating addiction are skilled in working with individuals who may not be fully committed to change at the start. They are trained to help clients overcome ambivalence and increase their motivation for change.
Mental illnesses and addictions are influenced by a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and life experiences, including exposure to stress and trauma. As a result, each person’s treatment needs and goals are different. Treatment options include:
A facility where a person is monitored to ensure that they safely get a substance “out of their system.” These facilities can either be with or without the aid of medical interventions and discharge planning is provided.
RVH’s Residential Withdrawal Management Service is a voluntary, self-referred program for individuals 16 and over, wanting to withdraw from drugs and alcohol.
With staff available 24/7, RVH helps people begin their recovery in a safe and therapeutic environment, with an average stay of 3 to 5 days.
For some addictions, medications such as Methadone/Suboxone may assist in the treatment process. For more information on medical interventions, speak with your doctor.
RVH’s Rapid Access Addiction Medicine (RAAM) Clinics in Barrie, Orillia and Midland offer short-term assistance to people struggling with substance use concerns, or to family members seeking personal support around a loved one’s addiction.
Clients are referred to appropriate resources for continued care.
This is a more intensive treatment, where a person stays in a treatment facility 24 hours a day. These programs can last from 21 days to several months. Residential programs typically offer
group counselling, individual counselling, case management support, and family counselling if requested. These facilities can be either publicly or privately funded and wait times for residential treatment vary.
To find our more about addiction treatment in that will best support you, contact Connex Ontario: Home | ConnexOntario
This typically offers the same programming as residential treatment, but clients will go home at the end of the day instead of residing within the facility. Day treatment typically provides an assessment, ongoing counselling, development of healthy coping skills, and the identification of treatment goals. Home – CMHA Simcoe County (cmhastarttalking.ca)
What happens in treatment? Each treatment service is different, but all have trained staff who will:
- Explore how substance use affects your life
- Plan treatment with you
- Connect you to other services that you might need
- Help you learn skills for leading a healthy, balanced life
- Help you set and meet your goals
- Provide individual and/or group counselling
- Offer support and information for family members
- Help you to learn how to avoid or cope with slips or relapses
- Prepare a plan for what will happen after treatment
How much does treatment cost? In Ontario, government health programs cover the fees for most treatment services. That means there’s no charge, provided you are a resident of Ontario and qualify for OHIP coverage. Some services, however, may have fees that are not covered: check with each service for details. How long do I stay in treatment? How long you stay in treatment depends on the service and on how much help you need to achieve your goals. Treatment times can range from a few weeks to several months or longer.
A free, peer-based treatment program for people experiencing substance misuse or addiction. Participants follow a set of steps with the goal of abstaining from their substance of choice. Groups can include Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous, etc.
Additional information on these services can be found at:
Alcoholics Anonymous https://www.aa.org/
Narcotics Anonymous https://na.org/
Cocaine Anonymous https://ca.org/
The path to recovery varies for people experiencing substance-misuse or addiction. Some people may decide to reduce or moderate their use so that it no longer negatively impacts their health or other aspects of their lives. Others may prefer to eliminate the use of substances altogether.
Below provides an explanation outlining the difference between abstinence and harm reduction approaches.
Abstinence:
- Definition: Abstinence is the complete cessation of substance use. It is often the primary goal in traditional addiction treatment programs, particularly those based on 12-step models like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and Cocaine Anonymous (CA).
- Approach: The focus is on helping individuals stop all use of the addictive substance, recognizing that even small amounts can trigger a return to uncontrolled use. Treatment typically includes counseling, support groups, and sometimes medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
- Goal: The goal is to achieve and maintain a drug-free life, emphasizing personal responsibility, lifestyle changes, and long-term recovery.
Harm Reduction:
- Definition: Harm reduction is a pragmatic approach that aims to minimize the negative consequences associated with substance use rather than insisting on complete abstinence. It recognizes that some individuals may not be ready or able to quit entirely, and focuses on reducing risks to their health and well-being.
- Approach: Strategies may include needle-exchange programs, supervised consumption sites, providing access to safer substances or dosages, and educating users on safer practices. Harm reduction also involves providing support and services that can help individuals gradually reduce use or eventually move towards abstinence.
- Goal: The goal is to improve quality of life and reduce harm associated with substance use, whether or not the individual chooses to pursue abstinence. It is often seen as a more compassionate and flexible approach, meeting people where they are in their recovery journey.
Both abstinence and harm reduction have their place in addiction treatment, and the choice of approach may depend on the individual’s circumstances, goals, and readiness for change. Some treatment plans may incorporate elements of both, tailoring interventions to the needs of the person.
What is Withdrawal?
When a person stops using alcohol and/or drugs their body and mind may experience physical and/or emotional symptoms. This process is commonly known as withdrawal.
Withdrawal can be a very uncomfortable process physically, mentally, and emotionally. Typically, withdrawal symptoms are the opposite effect desired by the substance. For some individuals, it can feel like a terrible flu and even cause confusion and delusions.
Withdrawal symptoms can vary between individuals. The severity of symptoms depends on:
- the type of substance and the length of use
- your age
- your physical health
- your mental and emotional state
**If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of withdrawal from the use of substances, please contact a local Withdrawal Management Services of your local Emergency Department**
Possible Withdrawal Symptoms:
alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids*
- Increased heart rate/blood pressure
- Anxiety
- Difficulty Sleeping
- Auditory /Visual Hallucinations
- Shakes/Tremulous Activity
- Gastrointestinal Upset
- Headaches, sensitivity to light
- Sweating
- Cravings
- *Muscle, bone & joint pain, leg cramps, watery eyes, nose, excessive yawning
SEVERE ALCOHOL AND BENZO WITHDRAWAL SIGNS & SYMPTOMS:
(Seek Medical Attention)
Persistent vomiting, or with blood present
Persistent diarrhea, or with blood present
Sudden chest pain
Difficulty breathing
Severe abdominal pain
Had, or recently had, a seizure
Delirium Tremens such as:
- Agitation / Shaking
- Visual and/or Auditory
Hallucinations
Cocaine, crack, crystal meth
- Tired/fatigue
- Increased appetite
- Mood Changes
- Cravings
Cannabis, LSD, ketamine, mushrooms
- Hot/cold sweats
- Mood changes
- Elevated Blood pressure
- Cravings
- Lack of appetite
- Difficulty Sleeping
- Cold, clammy skin
Available Withdrawal Supports:
A variety of services are available to support individuals and ensure that they safely withdrawal from the use of substances. The most common and widely used services to support an individual in the initial stages of withdrawal and early recovery are residential non-medical and community-based Withdrawal Management Services.
A voluntary service where individuals can access a withdrawal management bed in an in-patient community setting. A multi-disciplinary team offers individuals access to pharmacological and psychosocial interventions to support the withdrawal process. A client-centered, comprehensive discharge plan is developed to support continued recovery in the community.
Residential Withdrawal Management Services
Individuals who experience mild-to-moderate withdrawal symptoms may be eligible to withdraw in their own homes with a skilled addictions support person to assess and monitor withdrawal symptoms.
Your primary care provider can help determine if withdrawal management is necessary and what program may be most appropriate for you.
Medical Withdrawal Management is a voluntary, planned withdrawal program where individuals require medical supervision in a hospital setting to safely withdraw from alcohol or other drugs. Suitable for individuals whose withdrawal symptoms are more complex due to compounding factors such as:
- Medical condition that worsens during withdrawal
- Previous withdrawal history of seizures or DTs
- Mental health condition that worsens during withdrawal
Myth: Once the withdrawal process from alcohol or drugs is finished, your addiction treatment is complete.
Fact: Withdrawal alone is not treatment but is crucial starting point. Without beginning or continuing treatment immediately after withdrawing, there is an increased risk of relapse or overdose.
It is recommended to seek ongoing addiction support after the withdrawal symptoms have resolved.
***Individuals who have gone through withdrawal from opioids, such as fentanyl or prescription pain medication, lose their tolerance for the drug. Therefore, there is an increased risk of fatal overdose if a person relapses on opioids.***
What is Relapse?
Relapse is a process that begins when you start slipping back into old behaviour or patterns. A relapse begins long before you take your first drink or resume the use of a drug.
Prior to a slip or relapse you may notice you start to experience changes in your feelings, thoughts, and behaviours. These changes can be considered early warning signs and require your attention. Studies have shown that between 50% and 70% of people experience early warning signs over a period of 1-4 weeks prior to a relapse.
- Feeling anxious or worried
- Feeling tense or restless
- Feeling irritable or quick to become aggressive
- Feeling depressed or unhappy
- Feeling unsafe or threatened
- Feeling paranoid
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
- Difficulty making decisions
- Intrusive, racing thoughts
- Confusion
- Negative/pessimistic thoughts
- Thoughts of self-harm
- Dwelling on past events
- Isolating from family/friends
- Changes in appetite (increased or decreased)
- Changes in sleep (increased or decreased)
- Risk-taking behaviour
- Emotional outbursts
- Reduced energy and decreased motivation
- Decreased self-care
- Stopped attending addiction supports
- Romanticizing or longing for the “old” days
- Believing you are strong enough to use again without falling back into “old” patterns
- Starting to reconnect with “old” friends
- Becoming defensive and not able to take constructive criticism
- Beginning a pattern of denial/lying
- Changes in attitudes/behaviours
- Sudden feelings of depression or loneliness
- Becoming distant in social relationships
- Increased stress, feeling tense
- Resentments
- Loss of belief in self and/or recovery
- Handle day-to-day feelings and problems as they happen. This way, pressure and stress does not build up. The stress you may already feel will only get worse if you put off dealing with problems with family, friends, or work.
- Keep your life in balance. It is important to find ways to balance work and relaxation. Having fun with family or friends without including alcohol or drugs can be challenging.
- Be kind to yourself. Give yourself simple rewards that give you pleasure – a walk, time with a hobby, a chance to read a book.
- Fill in free time with a variety of activities. Try a few new activities, you will find some you enjoy.
- Eat well. What you eat can affect how well you cope with pressure. Fruit, vegetables, cheese, whole grain cereals and breads, fish and meat help cut down stress. Foods rich in B vitamins help to reduce craving for alcohol and to keep stress manageable. Caffeine (coffee, soft drinks), nicotine (cigarettes, cigars) and too much sugar can make you feel tense.
- Gain support and trust. Family, friends, a co-worker, a support group, or a counsellor can talk with you about the pressures you are feeling in recovery. They can support you in identifying early warning signs of relapse and help you manage stress. Let them know your goals and share how they can best support you.
- Identify and plan for high-risk situations. Consider two or three techniques to manage high-risk situations. Practice what you will do or say, so you feel better equipped to navigate them.
Understanding Addiction's Impact on Families
Addiction is a complex issue that affects not only the individual, but also their entire family, often with long-lasting consequences. Each family and individual may experience these effects differently.
The onset of addiction is typically gradual. Initially, there may be no obvious issues, but over time, the individual’s focus on substance use, such as alcohol, drugs, or gambling, can overshadow other aspects of their life. Responsibilities may be neglected, financial obligations might be missed, and personal relationships can suffer. The development of addiction is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, mental health, socio-economic stressors and relationships with family and friends.
Addiction is a chronic disease, characterized by an inability to reduce or abstain from the use of a substance, despite an increase in negative consequences. It is treatable, and the effectiveness of treatment and prevention methods is comparable to those for other chronic conditions.
When a family member struggles with addiction, the entire family is often affected. Families may adopt unhealthy coping mechanisms to deal with the challenges posed by the addiction. This can lead to decreased communication, secrecy, and an unspoken agreement not to express feelings openly. Some family members may assume additional responsibilities that the individual with the addiction has neglected or might provide financial support to them.
While these coping strategies can help maintain family functioning, they may also inadvertently enable the continuation of the addiction. Additionally, family members may turn to substance use or other harmful behaviours as a means of coping, which can exacerbate the overall situation. The stress of dealing with addiction can lead to conflict, anxiety, and health issues within the family system.
Family members often experience a range of emotions, including loneliness, frustration, fear, anger, shame, or guilt. They may feel hopeless about the situation. It’s crucial for them to understand that they are not to blame for the addiction. Seeking support from a counsellor, support group, or a spiritual leader can provide much-needed assistance in coping with the challenges they face.
Addiction within a family can create an unstable and unpredictable environment for children. Parents struggling with addiction may be unable to fulfill their parenting duties or provide necessities such as food and clothing. This instability can prevent children from learning essential life skills, leaving them to feel insecure, unloved, or even responsible for the addiction. Some children may take on adult responsibilities that are inappropriate for their age, which can hinder their development.
Children living in such environments are more likely to struggle academically, exhibit antisocial behaviors, or develop other unhealthy habits, such as eating disorders. Despite these challenges, many children display resilience, overcoming adversity to grow into strong, healthy adults by drawing on their own strengths and the support of others.
Rapid Access to Addiction Medicine: https://www.rvh.on.ca/rapid-access-addiction-medicine-raam/
New Path: New Path – Free Mental Health Services For Youth and Family
Al-Anon Family Groups: Al-Anon Family Groups
Canadian Mental Health Association: Home – CMHA Simcoe County (cmhastarttalking.ca)
Catholic Family Services: CFS Counselling + Wellbeing (cfssc.ca)
Information/Links to Addiction Community Resources:
705-728-4226 (24-hour crisis and information line)
https://www.rvh.on.ca/residential-withdrawal-management/
Connex Ontario: Mental Health & Addiction Treatment Services | Connex Ontario
Addiction Services Central Ontario (South Simcoe): Home – ASCO (helpwithaddictions.ca)
Canadian Mental Health Association, Simcoe County: Home – CMHA Simcoe County (cmhastarttalking.ca)
Rapid Access to Addiction Medicine (RAAM): Adult Addiction Services – Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (rvh.on.ca)
705 728 5044 or 1 888 893 8333
1-800-668-6868 or Text: 686868
Need help now? Text our texting service. – Kids Help Phone
Residential Withdrawal Management Service
This is a voluntary self-referred service suitable for clients wanting to withdraw from drugs and alcohol.
Residential Withdrawal Management Service helps individuals 16 years and older, begin their recovery in a safe and therapeutic environment (average stay 3-5 days). Residential Withdrawal Management Service provides:
- Non-medical co-ed residential withdrawal management service
- An immediate and nurturing support system throughout the withdrawal process
- Individual and group counseling sessions encouraging personal responsibility and accountability
- Inter-professional model of care – An interdisciplinary healthcare team
- Wheelchair accessible withdrawal management unit
Residential Withdrawal Management Service Referral Process
Residential Withdrawal Management Services are voluntary and individuals are encouraged to self-refer by calling the unit anytime 24/7. Call and inquire if a bed is available, formal referrals are not required. Staff will complete a quick screening over the phone with the individuals seeking services to ensure it is safe for them to detoxify in our non-medical services. If an individual is referred or arrives at the RVH Withdrawal Management Services with health concerns, they are referred for medical/psychiatric treatment to an Emergency department.
Rapid Access Addiction Medicine (RAAM) Clinic
This is a clinic for individuals 16 years of age and up whom are struggling with substance use concerns, or for family members seeking personal support around a loved one’s addiction. Referrals will also be accepted but not needed.
- The clinic will allow individuals to be seen by a member of the inter-professional team, as well as the physician or nurse practitioner, to help respond to the individual’s treatment needs.
- Service is short-term and appropriate referrals are made for continued client care.
- The clinic serves all of North Simcoe Muskoka but the main offices are currently in Barrie, Orillia and Midland.
- Please bring a valid health card and current medication list from a pharmacy.
- For inquiries please contact: 705-797-3095
Our team consists of:
- Nurse Practitioner
- Addiction Medicine Physicians
- Addiction Counsellors
- Social Worker
- Registered Nurses
- Administrative staff
- Peer Support Workers
Types of Services
Services are voluntary, holistic, client-driven and include:
- Individual Addiction Counselling
- Group Counselling
- Individual Family Counselling
- Group Family Counselling
- Social Work
- Suboxone Induction and Stabilization
- Anti-craving medication for alcohol
- Referrals to appropriate resources
- Recovery/Treatment Planning
- OHIP card
- All current medication or a list from the Pharmacy
Clients will be transitioned back to their primary care physician and referred to and/or provide community resource information for ongoing support in a variety of areas.
A word from our patients:
“I’m very grateful to the RAAM clinic, staff are non-judgemental and easy to talk to. They ‘get it’. Highly recommend the staff. Thank you, thank you, thank you.”
Overdose Information
Anyone using prescribed or street opioids can have an overdose, but there are some things that put you at higher risk, such as:
- taking prescription opioids more often or at higher doses than recommended
- taking opioids with alcohol or sedatives, such as:
- sleeping pills
- muscle relaxants
- benzodiazepines
- injecting drugs
- taking an opioid your body isn’t used to, or switching to a stronger drug
- taking higher doses than you are used to
- using drugs of unknown purity or strength
- other health conditions, like liver or kidney disease, or breathing problems
An overdose can also happen if you misuse opioids. For example, extended-release opioid tablets are meant to be swallowed whole. If you crush or break these pills before taking them, it may cause an overdose because too much of the drug is released at once.
The strength and type of opioids available on the street are unknown and can vary. This can increase the risk of overdose and death. Some opioids called fentanyl and carfentanil can be particularly dangerous because they:
- can be fatal even in very small amounts
- are being mixed with, or disguised and sold as street drugs, such as:
- heroin
- cocaine
- counterfeit prescription drugs such as oxycodone
Recognize the signs and symptoms of an overdose, including:
- difficulty
- walking
- talking
- staying awake
- blue lips or nails
- very small pupils
- cold and clammy skin
- dizziness and confusion
- extreme drowsiness
- choking, gurgling or snoring sounds
- slow, weak or no breathing
- inability to wake up, even when shaken or shouted at
If you think someone is overdosing, call 9-1-1 right away, or your local emergency help line.
Give the person naloxone if it’s available. Naloxone is a medication that can temporarily reverse an overdose if it is administered right away. You can give naloxone while you wait for professional help to arrive.
An overdose is always an emergency. Even if someone has taken naloxone, it can wear off before the person has completely recovered from their overdose. They may need more than one dose. Always call for help.
Follow the directions in your naloxone kit and from the 9-1-1 or emergency help line operator.
Sometimes people may not realize how harmful their drug use has become. Recognizing that they have a problem is the first step to dealing with it. It is much easier to deal with problematic drug use if you handle it early. The longer people wait, the harder the problem may be to address.
Starting the conversation can be tough, but there are constructive ways you can show you care. Be aware that the conversation might bring out some strong emotions and may not go as you expect. Know that it is okay and it will still show your friend or family member that you care.
Before you start a conversation, know the facts about drugs and their effects. This can help you frame the conversation and relate to the person.
When talking:
- Show concern. Tell them you are worried because you love them, and want the best for them.
- Listen. There may be some underlying reasons for why they’re using drugs, like mental health problems such as depression, or to cope with previous or ongoing trauma or violence. Listen for these potential issues and validate and acknowledge their experiences without probing them. It may help inform the type of help you encourage your friend or family member to seek.
- Be patient. A tough conversation like drug use can make someone angry or defensive. Don’t rush the conversation. If you need to come back to it another day, do so.
- Keep an open dialogue. Tell them you are there for them, and that they can talk to you anytime.
- Don’t stigmatize. Be aware of the language you use when talking to someone about drugs. Be compassionate and open in the way you talk about it so that the person feels understood and accepted. If someone feels they are being treated unkindly, or judged, they are less likely to seek help.
Make a list of the good things in their life. Sometimes people can lose sight of the things they do have in their life and their personal strengths. Remind them that there are friends, family members, groups, activities and other things that make getting help worthwhile. Recognize their strengths and their ability to overcome this
Substance use disorder is a medical condition that requires help from health professionals.
In addition to you being a supportive friend or family member, there are resources in your community that can help.
Encourage your friend to call, visit or read information online from national or local organizations. You can even offer to go with them as support if they are nervous to go alone. Don’t feel the need to take on all of your friend’s or family member’s problems. It’s important to protect your mental and emotional wellbeing when dealing with serious issues.
| Resource | Contact Information | Services Provided |
| Addiction, Mental Health, and Problem Gambling Services
(ConnexOntario) |
1-866-531-2600 |
|
| Good2Talk | 1-866-925-5454
Or Text: GOOD2TALKON to 686868 |
|
| RVH Addiction Services
(Withdrawal Management Services)
|
705-728-4226
Or 1-866-850-7034 |
· 24 hour addiction crisis line
· Residential, non-medical Withdrawal Management support |
| Rapid Access Addiction Medicine Clinics
(RAAM) |
705-797-3095
Or 1-833-797-3095 |
· Counselling services
· |
| Canadian Mental Health Association
Simcoe County |
705-726-5033 | · Harm reduction
· Individual counse |
| Mamaway Wiidokdaawin | 705-721-9554 | · |
Residential Withdrawal Management Service
Resources for Mental Health and Addiction Problems
Family Information Brochure – Addiction Services Withdrawal Management
Useful Links
Ministry of Health & Long-Term Care
Central Local Health Integration Network (LHIN)
Ontario Disability Support Program
Ontario Drug Benefit : Trillium Drug Program
The Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee (OPGT)
Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit
Canadian Mental Health Association
Centre for Addictions and Mental Health
Human Services and Justice Coordinating Committee
Mental Health Commission of Canada
Directions to RVH Withdrawal Management Services
Exit Hwy 400 at Bayfield Street. Head south on Bayfield Street. At the second set of lights, turn right onto Wellington Street W. The clinic is located on the right-hand side past Toronto.
Park in the upper level of parking lot at 70 Wellington St. W – between RVH Dialysis and RVH Addiction Services).
