Evidence-Informed Health Policy More Important Than Ever Ahead of International Overdose Awareness Day

International Overdose Awareness Day is a global event held each year on Aug. 31. It is a time to raise awareness of the toxic drug crisis and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death. The day is also an opportunity to remember those who have suffered a drug overdose injury or poisoning and invites reflection on the grief felt by families, friends and communities.

More than 18,000 people across BC have died from unregulated drugs and thousands more are living with serious long-term health consequences since the province first declared the crisis a public health emergency in 2016. Indigenous peoples continue to be disproportionately affected by the crisis. The unrelenting toll of the crisis is a reminder to all nurses to review and reflect on BCNU’s commitment to harm reduction principles and practices that “meet people where they’re at,” help reduce stigma and lead to better health outcomes.

BCNU has long supported evidence-informed policies and practices that include better access to a safe, regulated drug supply, more investments in mental health services, expanded voluntary treatment options and publicly delivered recovery services and care. The union also recognizes the importance of culturally-specific, trauma-informed approaches to the provision of care that are part of Indigenous harm reduction principles and practices and acknowledges there is much to learn from Indigenous nurses, practitioners, Elders and Knowledge Keepers.

Investments in holistic, evidence-informed solutions are more important than ever given the growing misinformation surrounding the crisis, and the desire of some politicians to manipulate the issue for political gain and cut funding to undermine life-saving work.

BCNU and others are promoting and participating in events taking place in communities around the province to mark International Overdose Awareness Day. A list of local events in can be found on the Canadian Action Initiative website. Community advocates, like Moms Stop the Harm and others, will be hosting a range of activities including public rallies, naloxone training, education and awareness events and candlelight vigils of remembrance.

BCNU supports the ongoing advocacy of these community members. It is essential that nurses and all health-care providers unite in the commitment to reduce stigma and provide compassionate care to those in need.

Visit overdoseday.com for more information on how to take action today.