FAQ

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FAQ

What is Addiction?

A bio-psycho-social phenomenon that views addiction as a complex mental health condition influenced by the interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors, rather than a single cause that encompasses a singular cause for all individuals experiencing addiction (CAMH, 2025).


According to Canada’s Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, addiction is the presence of the 4 C’s:

  • Craving
  • Loss of Control of amount, or frequency of use
  • Compulsion to use
  • Use despite Consequences

(CAMH, 2025) Addiction: CAMH

In Canada, it is estimated that 21% of the population (~6 million people) will meet the criteria for addiction in their lifetime (StatsCan, 2015).

What is Recovery?

Recovery in mental health and addiction is about people living satisfying, hopeful lives and contributing to society, even if they are experiencing ongoing symptoms of a mental health or substance use problem. (Mental Health Commission of Canada, 2020).


Not just about stopping or reducing use, recovery is a non-linear process of change that leads to improved functioning and quality of life (SAMHSA, 2012).


For MRU Recovery Community, we believe that recovery starts when an individual begins to think about their relationship with substances or behaviours.

We also believe that this is an individual’s decision to make, and people should be empowered to decide what recovery means to them and what they need to achieve it. We support all individuals, from abstinence to harm reduction approaches; all pathways are welcome.

Who can come to recovery meetings at MRU Recovery Community?

Everyone is welcome to participate in meetings; however, some meetings are intended to support individuals who are living in addiction and recovery. This is to protect the confidentiality of attendees and to provide support through a lived-experience and peer-support model.


“Closed” meetings are for individuals who are in recovery, or currently seeking support from addiction and process or behavioural addictions.

“Open” meetings are for anyone, regardless of their relationship to substances and behaviours, to share about their experiences, build community, or get information about addiction and recovery. 

Do I have to be in recovery to join the MRU Recovery Community?

No.

How can I get involved?

MRU Recovery Community is a growing initiative that will take support and collaboration from the entire MRU community. Building a recovery community is inherently grassroots, so every bit of help is appreciated.

Students

  • Students with lived experience are prioritized, as it helps to protect the confidentiality and understanding that is required for the peer support model.
  • Students without lived experience can participate through outreach initiatives such as tabling, Coffee Cart, Events, and Workshops

Faculty

  • At this time, programming is focused on students until we can offer safe, confidential support for both students and staff.
  • Faculty seeking support are encouraged to contact Employee Wellness
  • Faculty looking to support this community are encouraged to take the Recovery Ally Training and become familiar with the resources and supports available on campus

Allyship

  • Recovery Ally Training is offered through Recovery on Campus Alberta, and will hopefully be offered through the MRU Recovery Community.