A question that arose in the legislature yesterday was: Why did the NWT discontinue the “Don’t Be a Butthead” campaign?
This school-based smoking prevention program, part of the Healthy Choices Framework, ran for nine years. In 2015, the government changed its strategy to incorporate tobacco cessation into broader cancer prevention and community wellness initiatives, leading to the reallocation of funds previously designated for “Don’t Be a Butthead” to these broader areas.
Presently, there are no plans to revive the “Don’t Be a Butthead” campaign in its former capacity; however, the government is consistently reviewing its programs to ensure they effectively address the needs of youth and communities.
The question emerged in light of World No Tobacco Day, prompting inquiries from some MLAs about our territory’s efforts in prevention and education. World No Tobacco Day is dedicated to heightening awareness of the health risks linked to tobacco use and advocating for policies that effectively reduce tobacco consumption globally. It acts as a call to action for individuals to cease smoking and for governments to enact controls on tobacco use.
The latest initiative is the Dope Experience, which amalgamates health information on various substances through art and media-based activities to highlight important issues. This initiative was launched with a one-time cannabis education fund. Since March 2020, the arts-based workshops have reached nearly every community in the NWT. The workshop teams consist of facilitators trained in media production, expressive arts, and health and wellness. These teams provide information workshops for students on cannabis, alcohol, and other substances, offering students the chance to explore various artistic mediums for self-expression.
Vaping is becoming increasingly popular, and the government has collaborated with community health organizations to educate people about its risks. It involves engaging with students and developing new resources tailored for youth.
Residents of NWT who wish to quit smoking or vaping can contact the toll-free 811 health advice line to speak with a registered nurse. A dedicated nurse is available to assist residents in navigating the cessation of smoking and vaping, offering options such as nicotine replacement therapy and prescription medications to aid nicotine withdrawal. The guidance of a trusted healthcare provider can significantly improve the chances of a successful quit attempt.
Nicotine replacement therapy can be expensive. Typically, insurance plans cover these therapies and are accessible at health centres and pharmacies.
