The Unseen Effects of the Canadian Opioid Crisis: A Reflection on Alberta’s Increasing Crime Rates and Homelessness

As we delve deeper into the alarming repercussions of the Canadian opioid crisis, one cannot overlook the rising crime rates and homelessness which are, undeniably, perturbing facets of this epidemic. In this post, based on an enlightening article in The Globe and Mail, we will explore the affliction that Alberta has fallen into due to the opioid crisis and the efforts being initiated to combat it.

The Opioid Crisis and its Effects

The opioid crisis has undoubtedly left a heavy toll on Canadian society, with Alberta being one of the hardest hit. An alarming rise in crime rates, particularly property crimes such as thefts and break-ins, has been noted, creating a sense of unease and insecurity for residents.

Alberta’s homeless population is also on the rise, further exacerbating the current situation. As per the 2018 Point-in-Time count, there was a significant increase in homeless individuals in the province. Many of these individuals, struggling with opioid addiction, tend to resort to unlawful means to finance their dependency, hence the surge in crime rates.

The Crime-Drug Nexus

The opioid crisis has inevitably made its mark on the crime landscape. Opioid usage creates a high level of dependency in the user, often leading to unlawful conduct to support their addiction. This surge in crime has created a rippling effect on the community, causing many to live in constant fear of becoming the next victims.

Evidence of the Crisis

The effects of the opioid crisis are far-reaching and tangible. The increasing number of discarded needles in public spaces is evidence of the rampant drug use in Alberta. The local government and community organizations, recognizing the escalating situation, have initiated clean-up drives to rid the public areas of this menace.

Efforts to Combat the Opioid Crisis

While the situation is grim, efforts have been initiated at various levels to combat the opioid crisis in Alberta:

• The Alberta government has launched the Canadian opioid abatement class action against manufacturers and distributors of opioids. This lawsuit will seek reparations for the public health costs of the opioid crisis.
• The naloxone kit program, a life-saving initiative, provides free naloxone kits and training on their use to people at risk of an opioid overdose and their loved ones.
• Alberta Health Services is offering a virtual opioid dependency program to support those struggling with addiction. The program provides assessment, stabilization, medical treatment, and counselling through telemedicine services.
• Community organizations are playing a critical role too, providing resources and support to those affected by the opioid crisis. Many offer harm reduction services, including supervised drug consumption sites, in an attempt to mitigate the damage caused by opioid use.

Conclusion: The Critical Task Ahead

While these initiatives are a step in the right direction, the Canadian opioid crisis remains a persistent challenge that requires our collective effort. The rising crime rates and homelessness linked to opioid use call for comprehensive and integrated strategies. Beyond the governmental level, public awareness and societal support are crucial in overcoming the crisis. It is incumbent upon us to remain informed about the issue, empathetic to those affected, and involved in solution-seeking dialogues.

In the face of the opioid crisis, we must not forget the human element. Behind each statistic is an individual – someone’s son, daughter, parent, or friend. It is for them, and for our collective wellbeing, that we must strive to resolve this crisis.