The Canadian Opioid Crisis and The Arrival of the Polysubstance Epidemic
The ongoing opioid crisis has been a burning issue in Canada for some time now. As reported in Psychology Today, not only is the opioid crisis a mounting concern, the problem has further expanded into a polysubstance use epidemic, piling on compounding issues for Canadian society and healthcare.
The Polysubstance Use Epidemic
Records from hospitals and addiction clinics in Canada reveal a disturbing trend: majority of drug overdose cases now involve more than one substance. This fact has created a “polysubstance use epidemic” – indicating an increase in drug users taking multiple substances simultaneously. The overlapping effects and lethal interactions of different drugs have caused a significant surge in overdose deaths.
The Opioid Crisis in Canada
The opioid crisis has been wreaking havoc in Canada for the last few years. Opioids, primarily prescription opioids, are the main cause. The crisis not only threatens public health but also carries a profound social cost, negatively shaping communities across the country.
Consequences of the Opioid Crisis
Largely, the opioid crisis has:
- Fueled a surge in homelessness
- Fed into increased crime rates
- Strained the healthcare system
- Created socioeconomic instability
- Increased mental health issues
Opioid abuse has become a gateway to homelessness. An increase in opioid dependency often leads to unemployment, making individuals unable to afford or keep their housing. Furthermore, addicted individuals may turn to crime to fund their habit, exacerbating crime rates in certain regions.
Canadian healthcare system is also feeling the stress of the opioid crisis. Dealing with the health implications of prolonged opioid use, such as addiction, overdose, and infectious illnesses, is a significant burden and financial strain.
The Canadian Opioid Abatement Class Action
In the efforts to combat the opioid crisis, Canada launched the Canadian Opioid Abatement Class Action. It was aimed at holding pharmaceutical companies accountable for their role in the outbreak. This approach focuses heavily on recovery of the costs incurred due to the opioid crisis.
Addressing the Polysubstance Epidemic
However, with the onset of the polysubstance epidemic, the efforts need to be amplified. Addressing opioid use is just one aspect. Healthcare professionals and policymakers now need to consider the implications of the simultaneous use of multiple substances too.
The life-saving drug naloxone has been widely distributed to first responders and at-risk individuals to temporarily reverse opioid overdoses, so this can be extended to incorporate substances typically used in combination with opioids.
Key Points
The following is a succinct summary of the key points covered:
- A polysubstance use epidemic is emerging in Canada, further exacerbating the ongoing opioid crisis
- The opioid crisis is contributing to an increase in homelessness, crime, and healthcare costs, among other issues.
- The Canadian Opioid Abatement Class Action is one effort to address the opioid crisis.
- A multifaceted approach is essential to effectively combat both the opioid crisis and the new polysubstance epidemic.
Conclusion
The Canadian opioid crisis has been a significant societal issue, and now with the polysubstance use epidemic, the problem is only becoming more complex. Therefore, it is crucial to seek comprehensive solutions that address these crises holistically, taking into account the interconnected consequences on homelessness, crime rates, healthcare, and socioeconomic growth. Canada’s efforts, like the Canadian Opioid Abatement Class Action and the distribution of naloxone, represent steps in the right direction, but further measures will be required to fully combat these crises.
