Research Axis
Research Axis 1
Enhance understanding of determinants of development and recovery trajectories of overconsumption patterns
The notion of trajectory encompasses all the patterns of psychoactive substance consumption, ranging from experimental use to short and chronic use (duration), cumulating problems in various domains (complexity), with all possible hazards. This research axis aims to better understand the determinants of risky or abusive substance use and of recovery. As part of the 2021-25 program, the RISQ researchers are interested in substance abuse among multiples at-risk population including people experiencing homelessness, justice issues, or abusing opioids. The RISQ is also interested in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on substance use habits such as a greater use of DarkNet to obtain substances or an increase of risky behaviors among young people. Finally, research targeting family and loves ones of people with addictions are also conducted, for instance to identify the barriers preventing them from using support services.
Research Axis 2
Develop and evaluate the effectiveness of targeted intervention strategies
This research axis focuses on the development of screening and evaluation questionnaires aiming to provide adequate services to each person. We also develop programs and evaluate their effectiveness. For instance, My Choices programs is offer in all CISSS and aimed to help people to reduce their consumption of alcohol or other substances. The cultural adaption for First nations and Inuit is also available (Wise Choices). We also working on the Cap sur la famille program, a program for parents with addiction and their children of ages 6-12 aiming to reduce the repercussions of the parent's addiction on family life. An other project examines whether paying daily homeless young adults who abuse substance can improve their health and reduce their substance use.
Research Axis 3
Understand, evaluate and contribute to the improvement of service organization models and of public policies affecting the well-being of people using psychoactive substances
The work of axis 3 carried out by our team aims to identify the best service organization models. We also examine the effects of public policies on the health of the populations in terms of substance use. For example, our team examine the impact of the blood alcohol concentration limit on the frequency of road accidents: would it be better to reduce it from .08% to .05%? In short, the RISQ is working to improve our addiction interventions be seeking, with its partners, the most promising avenues.