The Ever-Increasing Impact of the Canadian Opioid Crisis on Communities
In light of the recent article published by Times Colonist, it is crucial that we, as community and civic leaders, better understand the astounding effects of the opioid crisis on Canadian communities and discuss possible solutions to address this pressing issue.
The Staggering Statistics
Over the past few years, the opioid crisis has exponentially grown, impacting thousands of Canadians directly and indirectly. Communities all over the country are severely affected – from urban cities to rural areas, no place is spared. To comprehend the gravity of the situation, it is crucial we discuss the numbers:
- More than 4,000 Canadians died from apparent opioid overdoses in 2017, and the number continues to rise yearly.
- Opioids are the third most common class of drugs involved in hospital stays for substance-related disorders.
- The rate of opioid-related hospitalizations is seven times higher among the homeless.
Unseen Consequences of Opioid Abuse
The opioid crisis has indirect repercussions too; generally unnoticed until they balloon into a larger societal issue. Communities with high opioid usage often see a significant rise in crime rates, homelessness, and a decline in overall public safety. The article1 outlines these unseen ramifications.
Efforts to Combat the Crisis
Various mitigation strategies have been implemented across the provinces to combat the opioid crisis:
- The distribution of Naloxone kits has been increased in high-risk areas, with training provided to community members and those directly affected by opioid use.
- The initiation of an opioid class action lawsuit has been launched against several large pharmaceutical corporations accused of false marketing tactics.
Steps Going Forward
Though we’ve started heading towards a solution, more needs to be done. We must continue increasing Naloxone distribution, accelerating programs that offer treatment for opioid disorder, addressing the issue among homeless populations, and holding pharmaceutical companies accountable. Educative efforts at the community level are integral to address the opioid crisis, and legal action holds promise as a tool to redress past corporate misconduct.
Conclusion
In summary, the opioid crisis is a complex issue with substantial effects on Canadian society. Health, crime, homelessness are all intertwined with this crisis. As community leaders, we must take a multipronged approach in dealing with this crisis, including education, prevention, and intervention. By incorporating a comprehensive understanding of the crisis’s effects, we can start taking meaningful strides towards a solution. The fight against the opioid crisis is not just a public health issue – it’s a fight for the health of our communities and the future of our citizens.
