Alcohol Treatment Programs in Thunder Bay, Ontario
Being far from even relatively large cities such as Barrie, Thunder Bay is found a considerable distance north of Toronto. As with most relatively remote towns and cities, Thunder Bay has higher than average alcoholism rates. Despite this, teenage abuse rates remain low statistically, and general trends thanks to increased enforcement measures are on their way downwards.
As a medium-sized city, Thunder Bay faces problems including a lack of facilities and few services providing for alcohol and its inherent problems and related conditions.
General Situation
Thunder Bay is located within the province of Ontario, and thus is subject to the rules and regulations on alcohol within that province. Only the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) and licensed establishments have the authority to serve alcohol. Establishments or people in Thunder Bay found to be distributing or serving alcoholic products are punished strictly and reliably.
While alcoholism is a perennial problem in all areas of the country, Thunder Bay faces the two-pronged issue of servicing its local population while competing with larger city centers for quality services and alcohol treatment facilities in Ontario. Unless additional funding and facilities are allocated soon, Thunder Bay faces the danger of slipping back from a previously dropping alcoholism rate within the next few years.
Teenage Alcohol Problems
Teenage alcohol problems in Thunder Bay are not more pronounced from other areas of the country. Nonetheless, problems do exist, and as in other cities the emphasis must be moved away from punishment and toward prevention. Only through prevention (including teen outreach programs, education, community involvement) can the real problems behind alcohol abuse be addressed and prevented.
Thunder Bay is doing a relatively good job of maintaining equilibrium, but funding cuts and recent economic downturns have meant that if conditions do not improve soon, the city will be facing significant issues with alcohol.
Driving While Impaired
Ontario police have recently increased efforts to crack down on alcohol abuse, especially in regards to driving. While these efforts have proven somewhat effective as a deterrent to committing crimes, punishments do not solve underlying issues faced by individuals tempted by the use and abuse of alcohol. This issue is one faced by Thunder Bay and all other parts of Canada.
Treating Alcoholic Addictions
Thunder Bay is a remote city that suffers from a perennial lack of funding, resources, services, and facilities. Trends indicate that Thunder Bay will face significant increases in alcohol – related issues and crimes if action is not taken soon. Despite recent economic difficulties, related authorities and service agencies should consider the cost-benefit of acting now rather than reacting in the future.
References:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thunder_Bay,_Ontario
http://www.beendigen.com/index.php?pid=18