BC's drug crisis shows no sign of waning
August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day, as British Columbia marks the eighth year of an ongoing toxic drug crisis.
According to the province's Overdose and Drug Poisoning Control website, 42,172 calls were received in 2023, up 25% from the previous year.
Without exception, the number of overdose and drug poisonings has increased every year in BC since 2016. Prior to 2016, when the emergency was first declared, calls regarding overdoses fluctuated between 10-15,000 each year.
The province released a summary of the latest information on July 30, noting that 1,158 people have died in the province since the beginning of the year.
There is no event planned in Lions Bay, but Squamish will mark the day on August 30 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Junction Park, with information on community resources and naloxone training available and a chance to remember those lost to the crisis. There will also be a free barbecue from 11:30 – 1 p.m.
"The purpose of this event is to gather as a community to grieve and recognize the toll of this crisis, showcase the current related services offered in our community, and raise awareness of how the toxic drug crisis came to be and what might be done by amplifying evidence-based ideas," says Michelle Balch, Volunteer Coordinator of the Squamish Helping Hands Society.
In Vancouver, an event will be held at Kits Beach beginning at 10 a.m., with harm-reduction information available, and a memorial labyrinth. Other events marking the day across the Lower Mainland include a screening of 'Toxic' at St. Andrew's Wesley United Church in Vancouver, a memorial led by Indigenous Elders at Holland Park in Surrey, and a silent memorial march and art show at Blue Mountain Park in Coquitlam.
Government support for substance abuse can be found HERE. For those in crisis (including thoughts of suicide), phone support can be found by calling 1-800-784-2433 or dialling 9-8-8. Other mental health supports can be accessed by dialling 310-6789 (no area code needed).
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