Topic 5.3: Strategies for Promoting Responsible Alcohol Use and Harm Reduction

Given the current state of alcohol consumption and its effects on communities in the territory, promoting responsible alcohol use and harm reduction remains a key priority in Nunavut. In response to these challenges, a comprehensive harm reduction approach has been implemented by the Government of Nunavut. This section will explore the government’s key strategies for promoting responsible alcohol use and supporting harm reduction efforts in Nunavut, including education, community engagement, support services, and culturally relevant treatment models.

Harm reduction is a client-centered, evidence-based approach aimed at reducing the health and social harms of substance use without requiring individuals to stop using substances altogether. In Nunavut, where alcohol misuse is a major concern, harm reduction focuses on offering non-judgmental strategies that help individuals minimize risks and make informed choices. Given the challenges of binge drinking, bootlegging, and alcohol-related violence, harm reduction provides support for those who may not be ready to quit, offering safer drinking guidelines, peer support, and access to services without stigma. This approach respects individuals’ autonomy while promoting safer behaviours and long-term well-being.¹

As acknowledged in the 2016 Government of Nunavut report, “Taking steps to reduce alcohol-related harm in Nunavut”,² the Government of Nunavut acknowledged the multifaceted nature of alcohol-related issues in the territory. Recognizing the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to alcohol harm reduction, the government took significant steps in 2010 by initiating a review of the Nunavut Liquor Act. This review aimed to update the legislation to better address the evolving needs of the territory and its residents.

A Task Force consisting of nine members from various Nunavut agencies was formed to consult with communities across the territory. Between October 2010 and March 2012, the Task Force visited all 25 communities in Nunavut, gathering valuable input from residents about the challenges they face with alcohol-related issues. This consultation process resulted in two key reports, What We Heard ³ and Halting the Harm,⁴ which captured the concerns and recommendations of Nunavummiut.

Overall, the government’s harm reduction approach seeks to provide a balanced response to the alcohol-related challenges in Nunavut. This approach not only works to reduce the health risks associated with alcohol use but also takes into account the broader social and cultural context in which alcohol is consumed. By promoting harm reduction through education, support services, policy reform, and community engagement, the government aims to create a safer and healthier environment for all Nunavummiut.

The Government of Nunavut’s approach to harm reduction is guided by several core principles, which are essential in promoting healthier, more informed choices and addressing alcohol-related harm. These principles are:

Recognizing that alcohol-related issues are complex and that various perspectives exist, the government commits to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment where all views are considered. Despite differing opinions, there is one shared goal: to reduce the harms associated with alcohol.

The government believes that strong, healthy citizens and communities are foundational to a healthy Nunavut. This principle emphasizes the importance of providing communities with the tools, resources, and support needed to make informed choices and mitigate the harms of alcohol. The government is focused on long-term solutions that serve families and communities, balancing them with operational considerations.²

Through extensive public consultation, the Nunavut Liquor Act Review Task Force outlined what Nunavummiut described as the “ideal situation” for their communities in relation to alcohol. While specific suggestions varied, a common vision emerged: bottom line, Nunavummiut desire healthier and safer communities. Many community members envision a future where the drinking culture has evolved, and alcohol-related harm has been significantly reduced. This vision includes:

Education and awareness initiatives play a crucial role in helping Nunavummiut understand, avoid, and manage the risks associated with alcohol consumption. By providing accessible and age-appropriate information, these initiatives empower individuals to make informed, healthy choices for themselves and their communities.

The Task Force’s consultations revealed that while alcohol consumption can be a part of a healthy community, it must be managed responsibly to avoid harm. It is important to note that many Nunavummiut enjoy alcohol socially in a way that does not negatively impact themselves or their community. The government’s role in this case, is to encourage behaviours that reduce alcohol-related harm, such as:

The “helping professions”—including community social service workers, health representatives, educators, and healthcare staff—play a critical role in supporting individuals and communities affected by alcohol misuse. These frontline workers are often in the best position to help educate and support Nunavummiut before, during, and after alcohol-related incidents.

To ensure these professionals can effectively encourage healthy choices, helpers should be equipped with:

Clear and open communication about alcohol-related harms is essential to the success of these initiatives. Given that Nunavut has four official languages, it is essential to ensure that information is accessible and relevant to all communities. The government has committed to working with local professionals, community members, and language organizations to develop common terminology that resonates with Nunavummiut and facilitates meaningful discussions about alcohol use and harm reduction.

Key actions will include:

Effective treatment initiatives are essential for individuals at risk of, or experiencing alcohol-related problems. These programs can include short-term interventions, long-term counselling, and other services designed to support individuals in changing and managing their alcohol-related behaviours. The government is committed to ensuring that Nunavummiut receive culturally appropriate treatment services that support recovery, prevent relapse, and facilitate reintegration into healthy, supportive communities.

Addictions and mental health issues, including alcohol misuse, can lead to negative outcomes in many areas, such as health, family dynamics, education, crime, and employment. To improve services for individuals affected by alcohol-related harm, the government has taken steps to strengthen mental health and addictions support across Nunavut. A key initiative has been the creation of 56 new mental health and addictions positions, along with 10 additional Nurse Practitioners, to improve access to public health services in communities across the territory.

When necessary, specialized services outside of Nunavut, such as telehealth consultations, residential treatment programs, and inpatient services, will be made available. However, wherever possible, the government will prioritize providing treatment services in local communities, where natural supports are stronger. Examples of some of these community-based services include:

A collaborative approach with communities is crucial for delivering effective treatment programs. Understanding the specific needs of each community and working together to provide appropriate support is an integral part of the harm-reduction process.

Nunavummiut receive the best care when front-line employees and volunteers are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and tools to address mental health and addiction issues effectively. In Nunavut, it is essential that these professionals not only have a deep understanding of Inuit culture but also an awareness of different treatment models for mental health and addiction.

By building the capacity of local professionals and incorporating Inuit approaches into treatment programs, the government aims to ensure that mental health and addiction services are not only effective but also deeply rooted in the values and traditions of Nunavut. This culturally-appropriate approach will improve both the quality and accessibility of care for those affected by alcohol-related harm.²

Treatment and healing centers and programs are increasingly incorporating culturally relevant methods of harm reduction, recognizing that healing and recovery is most effective when it meets the immediate needs of communities that need it. From on-the-land treatment programs to new recovery centers, these upcoming initiatives offer a holistic and culturally grounded approach to addressing substance use challenges. Consult the chart below for a short list of available (or soon to be available) cultural programs, treatment facilities, and drop in centers for communities to access.

Service/Center	Description	Contact Information	Hours of Operation
Aqqusariaq Treatment and Recovery Centre	A new addiction treatment and recovery center in Iqaluit. It will offer culturally sensitive services for addiction and mental health recovery, with a focus on Inuit traditional knowledge. Construction began in Fall 2023 and is expected to complete in 2025.	Phone: Contact the Government of Nunavut’s Department of Health for more information.	Expected Completion: 2025. Contact for details about the center’s opening and services.
Sailivik – Safe Sober Drop-In Centre	Provides a secure and sober environment for community members seeking support to maintain sobriety and emergency shelter for individuals in unsafe home situations. Offers daytime and evening programs to assist in recovery.	Address: Building 224, Pangnirtung, NU, X0A 0R0 Phone: 867-473-8562 Languages Spoken: English, Inuktitut For 211 Assistance: Call 2-1-1 or 1-867-877-1040 Website: nu.211.ca	Monday to Friday: Open 23 hours/day (closed during lunch) Saturday and Sunday: 5:00 PM – 8:30 AM
Ilisaqsivik Health and Wellness Centre	Offers Inuit-led, culturally relevant community programs and counseling services, with a focus on healing through Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit and Inuuqatigiittiarniq. Services are available for all life stages, from prenatal to Elders, and the center is recognized for addressing trauma and high suicide rates in Nunavut.	Address: P.O. Box 150, Clyde River, Nunavut X0A 0E0 Phone: 1-867-924-6565 Toll-Free: 1-888-331-4433 Email: tungasugit@ilisaqsivik.ca Website: ilisaqsivik.ca	Monday to Friday: Canadian Prenatal Nutrition Program: 5-7 p.m. Parents and Tots Preschool Drop-in: 1-3 p.m. Breakfast Program for Students: 8-9 a.m. Youth Drop-in: 7-10 p.m. Saturday: Canadian Prenatal Nutrition Program: 5-7 p.m. Youth Drop-in: 6-10 p.m. Sunday: Evening Recreation: 5-10 p.m.
Ilisaqsivik Family Resource Centre	Provides individual and family counseling integrating traditional Inuit knowledge. Services support individuals and families in crisis, offering land-based counseling and workshops on topics such as adoption, substance use, domestic violence, suicide, and teenage pregnancy.	Address: Building 701-91-0367, Clyde River, NU, X0A 0E0 Phone: 867-924-6565 Fax: 867-924-6570 Email: tungasugit@ilisaqsivik.ca Website: ilisaqsivik.ca Mailing Address: PO Box 150, Clyde River, NU, X0A 0E0	By appointment. Please contact the center for details.
Piqqusilirivvik	Operated by Nunavut Arctic College, this cultural learning facility offers courses in traditional Inuit knowledge and skills, such as traditional games, hunting, survival skills, and crafting (e.g., drum making, kamik making).	Phone: 867-924-6071 Toll-Free: 1-866-979-7222 Email: levi.palituq@arcticcollege.ca Website: arcticcollege.com/piqqusilirivvik	By course schedule. Contact directly for specific program times.
Tukisigiarvik Centre	Provides culturally appropriate counseling, healing, support, and skill development programs for survivors, disadvantaged, and marginalized individuals and families in Iqaluit. Services include individual counseling, family skills training, and cultural workshops.	Phone: 867-979-2400	By appointment. Please contact the center for more details.
28 Days on the Land Program	The 28 Days on the Land program offers an immersive, culturally rooted treatment experience for individuals dealing with substance use. This on-the-land program allows participants to engage in traditional Inuit activities, fostering a deep connection to the land while participating in healing practices. By combining nature with therapy, the program provides a safe, judgment-free space for individuals to reflect on their substance use and take steps toward recovery.	Phone: 867-983-4672	By appointment. Please contact the Department of Healthy Living in Cambridge Bay for more details.
Law Society of Nunavut	Provides emergency protection orders, community intervention orders, and financial support measures to individuals experiencing family violence in Nunavut. The What is family abuse and what can I do about it? Factsheet and other culturally responsive tools offer a range of legal interventions for victims without the need for criminal proceedings.	Contact: Law Society of Nunavut Email: lawsociety@lawsociety.nu.ca Website: Law Society of Nunavut	By appointment. Please refer to the Law Society for details on legal options available under the FAIA.Please refer to the Law Society for details on legal options available under the FAIA.
Website: piruqatigiit.ca Email: info@piruqatigiit.ca Phone: 867-979-3700	Launched in September 2024, the Piruqatigiit Resource Centre released the “FASD Handbook for Nunavut Educators.” This handbook is designed to support educators in understanding and assisting students with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), offering culturally relevant, evidence-based strategies.	Website: piruqatigiit.ca Email: info@piruqatigiit.ca Phone: 867-979-3700	By appointment. Please visit their website or contact them directly for additional information.

As you reflect on the importance of harm reduction in Nunavut, it’s clear that promoting responsible alcohol use goes beyond providing information—it’s about building trust, fostering community engagement, and ensuring access to culturally respectful support. Harm reduction is not a one-size-fits-all solution but a flexible, evolving process that supports individuals to take control of their health in meaningful, achievable ways. It meets people where they are, offering the tools and resources needed to navigate alcohol use safely, and without judgment. This approach, through community-based initiatives, education, support services, and policies, has the potential to create lasting change for individuals, families, and communities across the territory.

Reflect on how you can contribute to promoting harm reduction in your role or community by considering these questions: