CONTEXT

The Addictions Don’t Discriminate Project is an interactive in-person exhibit in Edmonton, Alberta, that takes participants on the real-life journeys of individuals affected by addiction. The project aims to increase empathy, improve communication, and enhance access to information related to addictions and mental health research while working to reduce the stigma surrounding substance use disorders.

Read more: Edmonton Journal Article

Project Website: Addictions Don’t Discriminate

APPROACH

• Storytelling & Lived Experiences: The exhibit presents real-life narratives of individuals impacted by addiction to humanize substance use disorders.

• Interactive Engagement: Visitors participate in an immersive experience, walking through personal stories to understand addiction from multiple perspectives.

• Community Collaboration: The project is developed with health professionals, addiction specialists, and individuals with lived experience to ensure accuracy and authenticity.

KNOWLEDGE DISSEMINATION

• The exhibit provides educational resources on mental health, addiction services, and harm reduction.

• The project has received national and international recognition, including a recommendation award from the International Institute for Information Design (IIIDaward) in May 2023.

DELIVERABLES

• Interactive in-person exhibit in Edmonton, Alberta.

• Educational materials that provide insights into addiction and mental health.

• Community engagement to foster open discussions about addiction and reduce stigma.

TIMELINE

• May 2023: Received IIIDaward recognition.

• Ongoing: Exhibit continues to run in Edmonton, with potential for expansion to other locations.