Comprehensive Resources for Your Recovery Journey
Whether you're seeking help for yourself or a loved one in Duncan or the Cowichan Valley, these resources provide valuable information, tools, and support to guide your recovery journey.
Downloadable Guides & Workbooks
Free resources to support your recovery journey
Complete Recovery Guide
A comprehensive guide covering understanding addiction, treatment options, recovery strategies, and maintaining long-term sobriety.
Download GuideRelapse Prevention Workbook
Interactive workbook with exercises to identify triggers, develop coping skills, create a relapse prevention plan, and build recovery resilience.
Download WorkbookMental Health Toolkit
Practical tools and techniques for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges commonly co-occurring with addiction.
Download ToolkitFamily Support Handbook
Essential information for family members supporting a loved one through recovery, including communication strategies and self-care tips.
Download HandbookLocal Duncan & Cowichan Valley Resources
Treatment and support services in our community
Cowichan District Hospital
3045 Gibbins Road, Duncan, BC
Emergency and urgent care services, mental health emergency support.
Emergency: 911
Main: (250) 737-2030
24/7 Emergency Services
Island Health Mental Health & Substance Use
238 Government Street, Duncan, BC
Mental health and substance use assessment, counseling, and treatment services for the Cowichan Valley.
Phone: (250) 746-5850
Mon-Fri: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Cowichan Family Life Association
1-291 Trunk Road, Duncan, BC
Counseling, family support, and mental health services for individuals and families in the Cowichan Valley.
Phone: (250) 748-3373
Website: cowichanfamilylife.org
Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Warmland House Recovery Home
Duncan, BC (Location disclosed upon admission)
Residential addiction recovery program for men, providing supportive housing and treatment services.
Phone: (250) 748-1588
24/7 Residential Program
Hiiye'yu Lelum (House of Friendship)
5453 Allenby Road, Duncan, BC
Substance use and mental health services with culturally-grounded support for Indigenous communities.
Phone: (250) 715-4292
Mon-Fri: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Alcoholics Anonymous - Duncan
Various locations in Duncan & Cowichan Valley
Free peer support meetings for individuals recovering from alcohol addiction. Multiple meetings weekly.
AA Central Office: (250) 746-8482
Website: aavancouverisland.com
Multiple meetings daily
Understanding Addiction & Mental Health
Educational resources to help you understand recovery
What is Addiction?
Addiction is a chronic brain disease characterized by compulsive substance use or behaviors despite harmful consequences. It affects brain circuits involved in reward, motivation, and memory.
- Changes brain chemistry and function
- Not a moral failing or lack of willpower
- Treatable with proper support and treatment
- Recovery is possible and sustainable
Co-Occurring Disorders
Many individuals with addiction also experience mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or PTSD. This is called a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder.
- 50% of people with addiction have a mental health condition
- Integrated treatment addresses both conditions
- Recovery requires treating both simultaneously
- Specialized care improves outcomes
Harm Reduction
Harm reduction strategies focus on reducing negative consequences associated with substance use, meeting people where they are in their recovery journey.
- Non-judgmental approach to care
- Reduces immediate health risks
- Respects individual autonomy and dignity
- Pathway to further treatment and recovery
The Recovery Process
Recovery is a process of change through which individuals improve their health, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential.
- No single path - personalized to individual needs
- Involves stages: contemplation, action, maintenance
- Relapse is part of the process, not failure
- Lifelong journey of growth and healing
Online Resources & Tools
Digital resources available 24/7
BounceBack BC
Free skill-building program for adults and youth 15+ with mild-to-moderate depression, anxiety, or stress.
Website: bouncebackbc.ca
Phone: 1-888-757-5033
Visit WebsiteMindshift CBT App
Free app using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy strategies to help you learn to relax and be mindful.
Platform: iOS & Android
Cost: Free
Download AppSMART Recovery Online
Free online meetings using science-based techniques to overcome addictive behaviors. Multiple daily meetings.
Website: smartrecovery.org
Format: Online & In-Person
Find MeetingsHealthLink BC
Free, confidential health information and advice available 24/7 from nurses, dietitians, and pharmacists.
Phone: 811
Website: healthlinkbc.ca
Visit WebsiteRecovery Elevator Podcast
Podcast featuring recovery stories, expert interviews, and practical tools for sobriety and mental wellness.
Platform: All podcast platforms
Frequency: Weekly episodes
Listen NowCAMH Resources
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health offers comprehensive information, tools, and online courses.
Website: camh.ca
Topics: Addiction, mental health, treatment
Explore ResourcesRecommended Books & Media
Helpful reading materials for recovery
"The Body Keeps the Score"
Groundbreaking exploration of trauma and its effects on the body and mind, with pathways to healing.
Trauma & Recovery"In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts"
Compassionate look at addiction through the lens of Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, exploring root causes.
Understanding Addiction"The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober"
Honest, uplifting memoir about getting sober and discovering the joys of an alcohol-free life.
Personal Journey"Beautiful Boy"
Heartbreaking memoir of a father's journey through his son's addiction, offering insight for families.
Family PerspectiveReady to Begin Your Recovery?
Our team at Next Chapter Recovery is here to support you every step of the way.