A message from Richard Jock, FNHA Chief Executive Officer; and Dr. Nel Wieman, FNHA Chief Medical Officer
The First Nations Health Authority's (FNHA's) “Sober for October" Wellness Initiative has been going strong for seven years now! This wellness initiative is an opportunity for First Nations people across BC who consume alcohol and/or other substances to reflect on their personal use, determine whether they want to reduce or stop consumption for the month (or even longer), and focus on their overall well-being.
First Nations people who do not consume alcohol or other substances (including us – you can read our respective stories of abstinence and recovery) can still join this initiative by offering encouragement and support to participating friends and family members!
At the FNHA, we recognize that each individual who consumes alcohol or other substances has their own unique relationship with substance use. The intention of this initiative is to enhance the knowledge, skills, resources and supports for individuals, families and communities regarding alcohol. The goal is to create a safe space for all of us to look at the role of substances in our lives and support each other in making changes as necessary to enhance our health and wellness.
What community members are saying
One community member who participated in our “Sober for October" initiative last year reported that even though they drink very moderately and 'socially,' they enjoyed doing the challenge as it helped them to be mindful of how much they were consuming. Another commented that the challenge motivated them to completely quit as they rarely drank anyway – and that this made them feel like they we were doing something good for their health while at the same time inspiring others to walk the Red Road and focus on their wellness.
Choosing your own wellness journey
Whether you choose to abstain completely or reduce your intake, the FNHA supports your decision. “Sober for October" isn't just about quitting alcohol; it's about embracing a healthier lifestyle and being more mindful of our choices and how they impact our wholistic wellness.
Taking the first step
- Learn more about how alcohol impacts your life.
- Take this online test to find out if you are at risk of having alcohol use disorder.
- Check out this link for tips on how to handle social gatherings and events where alcohol might be present.
- Remove alcohol from your home. Instead, stock your fridge with lots of non-alcoholic beverages / “mocktails" – sparkling low-calorie flavoured waters are a great alternative. Be careful of juices and other non-alcoholic beverages that can be very high in sugar.
- Check out a new alternative to alcoholic beverage recipes. Watch the Indigenous Sport Physical Activity and Recreation Council (I-SPARC) Food is Medicine: Tea with Fi – Nettle Mint Iced Tea cooking show to introduce a new, and healthy beverage to your day – make it for friends and family.
- Increase your water intake each day to help you clear out toxins, help improve your skin, and energize your muscles.
- Consider changing your social circle if necessary, at least for the month of October. For example, if you usually take part in Friday “Happy Hours", let your friends know you are making other plans for the month, such as going for a walk or watching a movie.
- Pair up with a friend, and support and encourage each other on your Sober for October wellness journey.
- Read the following Message from Elder Rosie White Elk to support you on this journey.
To continue to support participants this month – and beyond – the FNHA Wellness Team and the FNHA Office of the Chief Medical Officer will feature inspirational stories on the FNHA's website and social media platforms about community wellness champions, as well as any stories you may share with us about your participation in “Sober for October." We will also share a wealth of resources on our website and social media platforms.
Resources
For information on treatment centres, visit the link here.
Explore All Paths Lead to Wellness, which provides a description of the range of substance-use supports available while also recognizing the diverse needs of individuals.
Check out the Thunderbird Partnership Foundation website for information on programs and services for substance use and addiction. Also, more information and support networks can be found at the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction website.
Review the recent announcement of new alcohol-consumption guidelines; visit the link here.
You can also access culturally safe care through the FNHA' s Virtual Substance Use and Psychiatry Service, which provides BC First Nations people and their family members (even if non-Indigenous) with access to specialists in addictions medicine and psychiatry.
