Substances + TM(U)
What is Substances and TM(U)?
Substances and TM(U) aims to create a supportive and non-judgmental space where you can engage in meaningful conversations around substance use and your relationship with it.
We want to emphasize the importance of staying safe(r) and informed when it comes to substance use, and hope to provide you with the information you need to make safe(r) decisions regarding drug and alcohol use.
You can:
- Tell us about your substance use experiences in person or via this google form (external link)
- Obtain information and resources on various substances: cannabis, alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, opioid and many more
- Enjoy drop-in, therapeutic spaces, and ask any questions you might have in a safer space
- Find out how to get support for yourself or for someone else
Substances and TM(U) runs from Monday, March 4 to Friday, March 8, 2024.
Come partake in one or many of our in-person events across the campus and engage with us online through Instagram @tmustudentwellbeing (external link) .
We have a great line-up of activities for the entire week. Click on one of the date icons or keep scrolling down for details.
Scroll below to see each of the different events that are happening everyday in March!
Note: these are subject to change.
Kick-Off Substance Use Awareness Week with Us!
Whether you're curious about Student Integrated Health and Wellbeing, looking to join the conversation on substance use, pick up some new mixology skills, or seeking support - we’ve got you.
Graffiti Wall
Express Yourself on our Graffiti Wall, a canvas for your thoughts, feelings, and stories about substance use. Engage in thought-provoking discussions about the impact of stigma and share your experiences in a judgment-free zone.
Pitman Hall
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM (In-Person)
SLC Amphitheatre
11:00 AM - 4:30 PM (In-Person)
Health Promotion Resource Table
Want to learn more about substances but don’t know where to start? Come by to our table, we have lots of resources you can pick up for yourself or your friend. Ask us any questions that you have about substance use and we will either answer you or direct you to appropriate resources. Pick up some swag while you are here 😉.
SLC Amphitheatre
11:00 AM - 4:30 PM (In-Person)
Dry Mixology
As part of this week’s Substances and TM(U) programming, we’re inviting all students to stop by the SLC to pick up some fun drinks and new skills as we practice dry mixology. Come learn how to make fun non-alcoholic beverages you can enjoy with friends! Students will get the opportunity to enjoy the drinks they create.
So, stop by the SLC Amphitheatre and let’s get mixing!
SLC Amphitheatre
2:30 PM - 4:30 PM (In-Person)
Get ready to learn! We have on schedule an opioid myth-busting event and the Connect to Safer Substance Use Workshop. If you are interested in something more relaxing, we also have a Therapeutic Drop-in Space where you can reflect and create some collages.
Drop-in Space: Collage Connections
Join us for a therapeutic drop-in space during Substance Use Awareness Week, where we'll explore the healing power of art through collaging. No artistic experience is needed—just bring yourself and an open mind. Our facilitators will guide you in creating meaningful collages that encourage self-reflection and dialogue about substance use. This welcoming environment offers a unique opportunity to connect with others, fostering a sense of community.
Take a break, join us and let the art speak for itself as we use creativity to promote awareness and understanding.
SLC 5th Floor, Room 523 and 527
11:00 PM - 3:00 PM (In-Person)
Health Promotion Resource Table
Want to learn more about substances but don’t know where to start? Come by to our table, we have lots of resources you can pick up for yourself or your friend. Ask us any questions that you have about substance use and we will either answer you or direct you to appropriate resources. Pick up some swag while you are here 😉.
SLC Amphitheatre
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (In-Person)
Unveil the Truth: Opioid Myth-Busting Event!
Join us for an eye-opening exploration into the facts and fiction surrounding opioids at our Myth-Busting Event. In a world full of misinformation, we're here to debunk myths, provide accurate information, and foster an open dialogue on the opioid crisis. Our expert will share insights, dispel misconceptions, and empower you with knowledge to navigate this complex issue.
Together, let's separate fact from fiction and work towards a community that is informed, supportive, and equipped to tackle the opioid epidemic. Don't miss this chance to be part of the solution—attend our Opioid Myth-Busting Event. Knowledge is power, and together we can make a difference!
SLC Amphitheatre
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM (In-Person)
Connect to: Safer Substance Use Workshop
What’s the difference between different forms of cannabis? What can I do to lower my risk while taking substances? Get these questions answered for yourself or to support your friends. We'll introduce you to valuable tools and resources to help you navigate your substance-related choices. Knowledge is key to personal safety, and in this non-judgmental space. We invite you to get your facts right and make choices that align with your well-being. . (google form) Register now (external link, opens in new window) to get your facts right and make choices that align with your wellbeing.
DCC 705
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM (In-Person)
If you missed us in the last two days. We will be hosting the Health Promotion Resource Table and the Drop-in Healing and Safe Space again today. In addition, we have two more interactive in-person events. Fatal Vision Glasses and Standard Pour to learn more about the impact of alcohol. Last but not least, a Safer Substance Use Trivia to test your knowledge of substances and get a chance to take home some great prizes.
Health Promotion Resource Table
Want to learn more about substances but don’t know where to start? Come by to our table, we have lots of resources you can pick up for yourself or your friend. Ask us any questions that you have about substance use and we will either answer you or direct you to appropriate resources. Pick up some swag while you are here 😉.
SLC Amphitheatre
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM (In-Person)
Fatal Vision Glasses and Standard Pour
Stop by and try on a pair of Fatal Vision Goggles to see how alcohol might affect you! Take on a challenge while wearing the goggles to see how well you can do while under the simulated effects of alcohol. Community Safety and Security will also provide some tips about safe(r) use of alcohol and wellbeing measures to consider when using alcohol. Pick up some swag as well.
SLC Amphitheatre
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM (In-Person)
Drop-in Space: Collage Connections
Join us for a therapeutic drop-in space during Substance Use Awareness Week, where we'll explore the healing power of art through collaging. No artistic experience is needed—just bring yourself and an open mind. Our facilitators will guide you in creating meaningful collages that encourage self-reflection and dialogue about substance use. This welcoming environment offers a unique opportunity to connect with others, fostering a sense of community.
Take a break, join us and let the art speak for itself as we use creativity to promote awareness and understanding.
SLC 5th Floor, Room 523 and 527
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (In-Person)
Safer Substance Use Trivia
It’s time to put your knowledge to the test. Team up with your friends or come by yourself and we will put you into teams. This team-based trivia will allow us to see if we have done a good job at informing you about safer substance use or that you are actually an expert yourself already! We’ve got some great prizes for the winning team and participants. You would not want to miss out. Light refreshments will be provided.
TMU Student Centre, Oakham Lounge
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM (In-Person)
We hope that you have learned lots about safer substance use so far. Yet, we still have lots to offer. We heard that many of you are interested in knowing more about how to use naloxone kits to help save lives, Toronto Public Health will be here to provide training! If you are looking for something more relaxing,you can come join us for our last Drop-in Space or our Trauma Informed Yoga. Last, but certainly not least, come watch a movie with us that focuses on destigmatizing users of substances, freshly made popcorn and drinks will be provided. See you there!
Drop-in Space: Bracelet Crafting Connections
Join us for a therapeutic drop-in space during Substance Use Awareness Week, where we'll be making meaningful bracelets. Connect with others, foster a sense of community, and explore the therapeutic benefits of creativity. No experience required—just bring yourself and an open heart. Take a break, join us and use crafting as a tool for awareness and community building.
SLC 5th Floor, Room 523 and 527
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (In-Person)
Naloxone Training with Toronto Public Health
Come and learn how to save lives! Naloxone is a safe medication that can reverse the effects of opioid overdose when given correctly. Opioids include heroin, fentanyl, morphine, methadone, codeine, oxycodone and many others. TPH staff will be handing out kits and providing students with training on how to use naloxone to help save someone’s life in an overdose situation.
SLC Amphitheatre
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (In-Person)
Ditch Diet Culture: Debunking Nutrition Myths with a Registered Dietitian
Are you confused by the endless stream of nutrition information all around us? Do you feel stressed about what to eat? You're not alone. The purpose of this workshop is to dismantle nutrition myths and provide evidence based nutrition guidance, including tips on eating to improve mental health and nourishing your body through recovery.
Zoom link will be added
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM (Virtual)
Movie Screening: Flood: The Overdose Epidemic in Canada
The Opioid Crisis seems to be on the news all the time, some say that it should be named a Toxic Drug Supply Crisis to be more accurate. Why? Come watch a short documentary with us that showcases the epidemic from the perspectives of young users, their close ones, community organizations, health care professionals. Take the first step to destigmatizing users of substances by learning more. And hey, who can say no to freshly made buttery popcorn for free. See you there!
TMU Student Centre, Oakham Lounge
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM (In-Person)
Meditation and Yoga
Discover the transformative power of yoga tailored for healing in our meditation and yoga workshop. Designed to create a safe and supportive space, this workshop integrates mindfulness and gentle movements to empower individuals on their path to recovery. Led by a skilled instructor, this class offers valuable tools for managing stress, cravings, and emotional well-being. We invite you to explore the mind-body connection in a nurturing environment. Whether you are new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, this workshop aims to provide tools for self-care, resilience, and healing. (google form) Register now (external link, opens in new window) , as space is limited and is booked on a first come basis.
(Brought to you by TMU Recreation & Student Health Integrated Health & Wellbeing)
Recreation and Athletic Centre (Studio 2)
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM (In-Person)
One week is too short to cover everything we want to cover. Come by our community fair to get more information on how you can continue to receive support. Members of our TMU community as well as external community organizations will be there to offer resources supporting yours or your friends’ substance use and mental health concerns.
Come and engage with us, make connections, and pick up some swag…
SLC
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (In-Person)
Check out who will be there:
Our Partners
- Student Integrated Health and Wellbeing (SHaW)
- Community Safety and Security
- Jack.org TMU Chapter (external link)
Community Organizations
Drink Smart (external link)
- DrinkSmart is an alcohol awareness & education program created for Ontario Post-Secondary Students-by-Students.
YMCA - Youth Opioids Awareness Program (external link, opens in new window)
- The YOAP aims to increase awareness about opioids in youth ages 15–24 via harm reduction in an enjoyable way through activities such as escape rooms, crafts, and more..
CAMH: Centre for Addiction and Mental Health - STOP (external link)
- The Smoking Treatment for Ontario Patients (STOP) Program is a province-wide initiative delivering smoking cessation treatment (up to 26 weeks of NRT) and counselling support to people who want to reduce/quit their tobacco use.
Drug Free Kids (external link)
- Drug Free Kids Canada is building a movement that encourages and supports parents and families to prevent and reduce the harms of problematic drug use by youth.
Cannabis and Mental Health (external link)
- The Cannabis and Mental Health Course is an online course created by youth and made for youth. This is a joint project with the Schizophrenia Society of Canada's project Cannabis & Psychosis (external link) , YouthREX, and The Mental Health Commission of Canada.
Responsible Gambling Council (external link, opens in new window)
- The Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) is dedicated to reducing gambling risks through innovation, awareness and improved safeguards.
Youth Gambling Awareness Program (external link, opens in new window)
- The YMCA of Greater Toronto is a charity that ignites the potential in people, helping them grow, lead, and give back to their communities.