The Aftermath of the Canadian Opioid Crisis
In an attempt to shed more light on the escalating opioid crisis in Canada, this examination focuses on the second wave of opioid addiction. The rising concern is primarily due to the increasing pervasion of powerful narcotic substances like Fentanyl, which are causing devastating effects across various communities. (source)
The Impact of the Opioid Crisis
The opioid crisis is rampant and detrimental on numerous levels. Numbers from the Canadian Institute for Health Information reveal that opioids poisoned more than 9,000 lives in Canada between January 2016 and June 2018.
The aftermath of this calamity is profound, inflicting multi-dimensional distress on the Canadian society.
Homelessness and Crime
The opioid crisis has exacerbated the issue of homelessness across various regions of Canada. Opioid addiction tends to lead to job loss, causing a severe side effect of homelessness. Unfortunately, homelessness, in turn, fuels the use of illicit drugs, thereby creating an endless cycle of misery.
The use of illicit opioids is also often associated with an increase in crime rates. A desperation for these substances drives some individuals to engage in illegal activities, thereby raising concerns for public safety.
Healthcare System Strains
Additionally, the Canadian healthcare system is bearing the brunt of this crisis. The surges in overdose cases are straining the resources and capacities of hospitals and healthcare staff. The opioid epidemic has escalated to a public health disaster warranting immediate attention.
The Fight Against the Opioid Crisis
Fortunately, various significant measures are underway to combat this crisis.
Canadian Opioid Abatement Class Action
The Canadian government has sought to hold opioid manufacturers and distributors accountable through the Canadian Opioid Abatement Class Action. This initiative aims to recover the public health care costs associated with the opioid crisis.
Naloxone Distribution and Training
A critical stride has been the distribution of naloxone, a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses. In addition, training on the usage of the naloxone kits is being provided across Canada.
Key Points
- The opioid crisis, amplified by the pervasive use of substances like Fentanyl, has caused significant damage to the Canadian community.
- Over 9,000 lives were lost due to opioid poisoning between January 2016 and June 2018.
- The crisis leads to increased homelessness, crime rates, and strains on the healthcare system.
- Efforts such as the Canadian Opioid Abatement Class Action and naloxone distribution are being implemented to combat this crisis.
Closing Thoughts
While these efforts mark consequential progress in tackling the opioid crisis, it is manifest that much work remains. A concerted response involving all stakeholders – the government, healthcare providers, advocacy groups, and the community at large, is necessary to steer the fight against the opioid crisis in a positive direction.
The Canadian opioid crisis is an overwhelming challenge, but with unified resolve and actionable strategies, the threat can be mitigated and perhaps eradicated. By understanding the magnitude of this crisis and the impact it has on individual lives and the entire social fabric, each one of us can play an essential role in curbing the opioids crisis in Canada.
