‘We have lost thousands’: BC reaches 9th year of toxic drug public health crisis

This April marks nine years since British Columbia declared a public health crisis regarding toxic drugs and the rising number of deaths linked to substance-use. 

Since the public health emergency was declared in April 2016, more than 16,000 lives have been lost due to toxic drugs.

“Today marks nine years since BC declared the toxic-drug crisis a public health emergency,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. 

“Since that time, we have lost thousands of people to poisoned drugs, each one a valued member of their community. Each and every loss leaves lasting grief for the people who knew and loved them.”

Osborne noted that substance use is impacted by many complex factors, some of which include trauma, mental and physical-health challenges, poverty, stigma and barriers preventing people from accessing stable housing and support. 

“Ending this crisis requires an equally complex and compassionate response, one that prioritizes care over judgment,” she added.

She says that on this solemn anniversary, the BC government wants to renew its commitment to addressing the issues that contribute to substance use and toxic drug deaths.

Dr. Bonnie Henry, BC’s provincial health officer, also commented on the issue, saying that although there have been glimmers of hope and progress, there is still much work to be done by the government. 

On this matter, she says that BC must continue to take a trauma-informed, harm reduction approach to the issue. 

“Whether it is being able to have a conversation with a trusted loved one, peer or medical worker, access to life-saving naloxone, or a safe place to have drugs tested, we have seen how these harm-reduction measures make a difference and save lives,” said Dr. Henry. 

“But the increasing toxicity and unpredictability of the drugs on the street also remind us that we must continue to have the courage to be innovative and unwavering in our approach to this public health crisis.”

She added that the very lives of people’s brothers, sisters, friends, neighbours and colleagues depend on making a concerted effort to be compassionate and continuing to expand initiatives that address the toxic drug crisis.