AFC

Understanding Substance Use, Addiction, and Harm Reduction

November 5, 1-2 pm ET | 10-11 am PT | Zoom

Overview

Have you ever been concerned about substance use, your own or someone else’s, and felt unsure how to better understand or respond to it? Substance use and addiction can affect people across the entertainment industry. Approaching these experiences with knowledge, compassion, and without judgment can help create safer, more supportive spaces.

In this introductory workshop with The AFC’s Emily Hill and Hayley Schmalz, participants will explore substance use and addiction in the entertainment industry, the potential harms associated with substance use, and the principles of harm reduction. The session will look at substance use as a spectrum, recognizing that people’s experiences and needs can vary widely.

Participants will leave with practical insights and accessible tips for fostering safer, more supportive workplaces and creative spaces.

Who Should Attend

Anyone interested in learning about substance use, addiction, and harm reduction.

Key Takeaways

  • Understand substance use as a spectrum and recognize the diversity of people’s experiences and needs.
  • Learn the principles of harm reduction, including why abstinence isn’t always the goal or the right approach for everyone.
  • Explore how substance use can show up in the entertainment industry and the factors that may shape these experiences.
  • Identify practical ways to create safer, more supportive environments for people who use substances.

Register Now

Important Note

This session is not a substitute for medical advice or therapy. The AFC’s workshops are intended to provide general information and strategies and do not offer personalized advice. Experts may not be able to answer all participants’ questions.

Accessibility 

ASL interpretation, closed captions, and translated captions are available. If you require additional accommodations to make this event accessible for you, please get in touch, and we will do our best to meet your needs.

Recording

This event will be recorded. The link to the replay will be provided to all who sign up.


Facilitators

Click or tap the images to learn more about Emily and Hayley.

Emily Hill, she/her, MSW, RSW (Ont.)
Hayley Schmalz, she/her, MSW, RSW (Ont.)