Stigma Ends at CU has been fortunate enough to participate in a variety of events through the Carleton and Ottawa communities. These relationships have helped to cultivate opportunities for our own and other’s organizations to aid as many people as possible. We look forward to continuing to grow our outreach and creating a world free from Stigma.
Webinars
A Conversation on Sex and Substance Use
November 26th, 2020
StigmaEndsAtCU facilitated an open and honest conversation about the relationship between substance use and sex. Topics included consent while under the influence, maintaining continuing consent during sex, and understanding the influence substances have on social and intimate relationships. Hosted by Tanisse Teale, guests Sarah Crawford of Algonquin Student Services, Bailey Reid and Amal Elmi from Carleton Sexual Assault Services.
The Use of Study Drugs Among University Students
February 25th, 2021
Hosted by Adriana Difranco and joined by Dr. Zachary Patterson, we discussed the pros and cons of pharmaceutical study drugs in a university setting. Adriana opened up about her experience with these drugs, and how it affected her ability to maintain her mental health and course load simultaneously. Dr. Patterson provided insight into the neurochemistry of these drugs and emphasized the significance of an individual’s experience in determining the benefits and detriments of study drugs.
Series
24 Hour March for Mental Health
October 10th, 2020
On World Health Organization’s World Mental Health Day, StigmaEnds team members and partners were joined by members of our community and beyond while walking to raise awareness for understanding mental health as a medical issue.
Events
National Addictions Awareness Week (NAAW)
November 23rd – 27th, 2020
StigmaEndsAtCU participated in CAPSA’s NAAW by hosting Instagram Live videos every day with a new guest! Topics included students and substance use, person-first language and harm reduction, “Where Are Your Meds?”, and many more. Hosted by members of the StigmaEnds team with guests from Carleton Wellness.
Fundraisers
Rideauwood
April 2021
Rideauwood Addictions and Family Services is a community-based addiction treatment centre in Ottawa. In April 2021, Stigma Ends at CU hosted a one-hour symposium on the role of stigmatization, mental health, and substance use through a live Zoom session. The symposium was moderated by Dr. Kim Hellemans from Carleton University, in addition to various other expert panellists such as the Director of Mental Health and Substance Use at the Mental Health Commission of Canada, the Executive Director of the Community Addictions Peer Support Association, a Knowledge Broker from the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, the Manager of Student Conduct and Harm Reduction from the Office of Student Affairs at Carleton University, and two Carleton University students who are passionate mental health advocators.
The conversation was focused on these main questions: how are problematic substance use and behaviours experienced among our students? How does stigma pose a barrier to seeking support and assistance? How can we do better to enhance student wellness? How has COVID-19 affected the use of substances and the impact of supporting communities? The panellists provided their knowledge on substance use and its relation to mental health to accurately answer these questions and educate the audience on the neuroscientific background of addiction. The symposium included a fundraising section for the Rideauwood Addictions and Family Services.