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‘Recovery College’ to open in Lethbridge this September

Jun 22, 2019 | 1:15 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Alberta Government is giving $3-million to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) to expand the Recovery College model beyond Calgary and into several communities across the province.

“Recovery is a priority for our government. Albertans deserve the ability to access the recovery services they need to help them live healthy, productive lives,” says Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Jason Luan. “These recovery colleges provide important supports from people with real experiences that help support long-term recovery.”

The recovery colleges use a community-oriented approach where people in recovery share what skills, tools, and knowledge have been working for them in hopes of inspiring change in others.

“Moving our mindset and perception from illness to wellness is critical on the journey of recovery,” says CMHA Calgary Region Executive Director Laureen MacNeil. “Offering these invaluable resources changes how people can access mental health and addiction recovery. We are excited to share the successes of Calgary’s Recovery College with all of Alberta.”

Lethbridge and Red Deer’s facilities set to open in September, while additional spaces will be created in Wood Buffalo and Edmonton.

The province says 1,292 students have taken part in Recovery College courses in Calgary so far, 81% of whom said they have gained skills and information to support their own personal wellness.