The Opioid Crisis

Over the last several years we have witnessed a rising crisis in our cities and neighbourhoods that has greatly impacted families and friends.

To get a picture of the crisis in Canada:

Since 2016, there have been:

• over 49,105 opioid-related deaths
• over 45,707 opioid-related hospitalizations
• over 187,511 opioid-related emergency department visits

• About 3 out of 4 opioid-related deaths were among males since 2016
• The toxicity and unpredictability of the illegal drug supply continues to be a major driver of the overdose crisis with over 75% of opioid-related deaths involving fentanyl and/or fentanyl analogues
• The majority of opioid-related deaths occurred in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario

Federal Actions on the Overdose Crisis, Government of Canada

Many have loved ones who are struggling with an opioid addiction, and they are helpless to help because…well.. where do you start?

I wanted to share this great video from MedCircle. In this video, Dr. Dom covers:

• The causes of the opioid crisis
• The science of addiction and the neurology of opiate use disorder
• The risk factors and prevention strategies of opioid addiction
• How to recognize the 11 diagnostic criteria of opiate use disorder
• How to approach a loved one displaying the physical & behavioral signs of opioid use
• Why opioid overdoses are so common & how to handle the aftermath
• Opioid addiction treatment options and how to help a loved one through steps to recovery (from detox through rehab)
• How to find long-term happiness after recovering from an opioid addiction