By rdnewsNOW staff

National Addictions Awareness Week Nov. 16-22

Virtual addiction treatment expands, bringing help home for Albertans

Nov 18, 2025 | 1:03 PM

Recovery Alberta says it is bringing help home through expanded virtual substance use treatment creating hope through accessible, compassionate care wherever Albertans are.

As part of National Addictions Awareness Week Nov. 16-22, Recovery Alberta is encouraging anyone struggling with substance use – or supporting someone who is – to reach out.

Thanks to a new program, Recovery Alberta says individuals can begin their recovery journey as soon as they’re ready– whether they live in a remote community or city centre. Officials say the Virtual Rapid Access Addiction Medicine (VRAAM) program treats people for substances beyond opioids, allowing them to connect with physicians, counsellors and peer support specialists from the comfort and privacy of home.

Like other telemedicine programs such as the Virtual Opioid Dependency Program (VODP), Recovery Alberta says VRAAM is helping clients wherever they are. Through secure online appointments, individuals can access:

• Same-day or next-day assessment of substance use concerns, such as for alcohol or methamphetamine, or for gambling
• Medication-assisted treatment and withdrawal management
• Virtual counselling
• Referrals and coordination for community or residential care.

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Recovery Alberta says virtual treatment gives people the flexibility to start recovery at home, surrounded by their support and community, while receiving the same quality of care.

To access VRAAM or VODP call 1-844-383-7688, 24/7 mental health and addiction supports are available through:

• Mental Health Helpline: 1-877-303-2642
• Addiction Helpline: 1-866-332-2322
• 211, call or text INFO to 211, or visit ab.211.ca. Services are available in more than 170 languages.