NLIS 5
November 21, 2005
(Health and Community Services)
 

Get up on it during Addictions Awareness Week, November 20-26

Health and Community Services Minister John Ottenheimer today officially launched a new addictions awareness campaign aimed at encouraging youth to get up on the facts about drug and alcohol abuse, and problem gambling. The official launch took place at Empire Theatres this afternoon where youth came out to hear a video message from the official spokesperson for the Get up on it campaign, Rex Goudie. The campaign was launched during Addictions Awareness Week, which takes place from November 20-26.

�In today�s society, there are so many pressures facing youth, including the pressure to fit in. Too often we see young people give in to peer pressure and form habits such as drinking, smoking, gambling or even taking illegal drugs. Soon their habit becomes an addiction - an addiction that can get in the way of their ambitions,� said Minister Ottenheimer. �This campaign encourages youth to get up on the facts about alcohol, gambling and drug abuse, to stay true to themselves and to make the right choices so they can realize their dreams. Rex Goudie is an appropriate spokesperson in that he represents what someone can accomplish when they stay real, make the right choices and follow their dreams.�

The campaign directs youth to a Web site www.getuponit.ca where people can get up on the facts about drug and alcohol abuse, and problem gambling. The site offers tips on how you can spot someone with a problem, and where they can find help. But, more importantly, the Web site attempts to provide the facts on the negative impacts of addiction and how it can get in the way of a person�s dreams - whatever they may be. The campaign also includes posters to be displayed across the province, brochures for educators and counselors, and a getuponit.ca ring, which is worn by Rex on the posters. Rings are available at local Addictions Services Offices or through the Department of Health and Community Services.

Newfoundland and Labrador�s own Rex Goudie said he�s excited to be a part of the Get up on it campaign. �It doesn�t matter who you are or where you come from, we all face challenges that can turn our lives upside down. Too many teens turn to alcohol, drugs and gambling and let their addictions kill their dreams before they have a chance to live them. That�s why I�m so excited to be a part of the Get up on it campaign and Addictions Awareness Week. Getuponit.ca is a Web site that will help kids get up on the facts about drugs, alcohol and gambling addictions. I want teens to remember that they do have a choice. Stay real. Follow your dreams. And get up on it.�

For more information on Addictions Awareness Week, visit www.getuponit.ca

Media contact: Tansy Mundon, Communications, (709) 729-1377, 685-1741

2005 11 21                     3:30 p.m.


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