Discussions

Does anybody have any advice on the first steps to recovery? Substance addictions specifically. Thanks in advance!

Well first and foremost the person has to want to quit, I mean really want it.  
 
I went through this myself years ago.  
 
First thing is to let go of everyone who you knew that reminds you of doing it or that still does it.  
 
Keep your mind occupied, join a club, play some games, whatever the person enjoyed doing before the addiction.  
 
I found that purchasing the odd thing that I had wanted for a long time was a great reward system. I used to keep the money that I would had spent on the addiction and bought something for myself. It felt good to actually physically have something than blowing it all the time.  
 
I also found that keeping candies or sweets around the house helped curb the cravings as well.

I believe they have a few open intake/assessments times every week for new potential clients or people seeking help or education. Both addicted and affected individuals can attend at no charge as long as they have a MB Health Card.

Please feel free to join us at Westman Families of Addicts-support for the family/friend that are trying to support an addict. We are on facebook in a closed group, and we also have monthly support meetings. Next one is Aug 22nd.  
You will see it under the events on here or can find out all info or details in facebook group.  
Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns...

I've also struggled myself I find the best way to help is to hang around with people who don't use and fill your time with activities you can do without using like fishing, sports, video games pretty much anything to keep your mind occupied. Good luck!