Substance use - and abuse - has existed in virtually all cultures throughout human history. Canada is no exception to this. But what may come as a surprise are the rates and the substances themselves that are most liable to abuse in this country. A recent study estimates that the cost of substance abuse is equivalent to $1,267 for every man, woman, and child in Canada in terms of lost productivity, health care, and law enforcement. And this does not include the personal cost. It is an issue worth considering. In an accessible and engaging style, this short book presents the latest research, survey, and interview data on substance abuse, taking into account Canada's regional differences and demography. It describes the models used by experts to explain substance abuse and addiction, and evaluates the various social policy, psychological, and medical solutions. Students and interested general readers alike will learn a great deal about how experts have come to understand the complicated, controversial topic of substance abuse. About the Issues in Canada Series: Addressing the key issues that challenge Canada today, these short books are written by experts to engage readers, explore debates, and evaluate solutions. About the Authors: Marilyn Herie, PHD, RSW is an Advanced Practice Clinician at Ontario's Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), as well as Adjunct Professor at the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, and (effective 2010) Director of the Collaborative Program in Addiction
Studies at the University of Toronto. She has co-authored books, book chapters, and articles in scholarly journals on brief treatment, alcohol dependence, relapse prevention, dissemination research, and online learning. Marilyn offers clinical training in motivational interventions and addiction
treatment across Canada and internationally. Wayne Skinner, MSW, RSW, is Deputy Clinical Director, Addictions Programs, at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, where he leads strategic priorities in problem gambling, concurrent disorders capacity-building and aboriginal addictions and mental health. He is an Assistant Professor in the
Department of Psychiatry in the Faculty of Social Work at the University of Toronto. He also directs the Addiction Studies Program in Continuing Education at the University of Toronto's St Michael's College and teaches in the School of Social Work at York University. |
