This week, Portage Collegiate acknowledged Manitoba Addictions Awareness Week. Organized by Teens Against Destructive Decisions (TADD), the school held various events to raise awareness. TADD member, Caytie Sharp says many people are still driving while distracted.

"A lot of people, whether it be teenagers or adults who've been driving for so long, they still text and drive or they continue to do distracted activities. As well, a lot of the students coming out of Driver's Ed, it's good for them to know to not do these things, as they can cause accidents and hurt other people, whether it's on purpose or not," says Sharp.

TADD organized the use of impaired driving goggles while playing Mario Kart and an obstacle course. They had information booths set up from the Addictions Foundation of Manitoba (AFM) as well as the RCMP about drug information and one about TADD information. In partner with Eagles Fire Youth Centre, there were speakers discussing related issues, and also a dance and movie night during the week.

Raising awareness is essential to provide necessary information about something that either directly or indirectly affects us all. Guidance councillor at PCI, Dana Pruden says we should all be aware, and their focus is on other types of addiction as well.

"It's something that affects everybody, even if you don't have an addiction of your own, chances are you know somebody's who's struggling with addiction. And we don't just focus on drugs an alcohol, we focus on gaming addictions, we focus on gambling...anything that is disruptive in our everyday lives and our daily successes," Pruden says.

Pruden stresses they hope with the events of the week, to shine a light on the risks associated with addiction and to prevent people from starting any addictive behaviours. They also want to let you know where to access help if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction.

PCI students take part in the obstacle course using the impaired driving goggles (Photo by Renée Lilley)