What is fuelling the opioid crisis among First Nations and Indigenous communities in Canada and how is it being addressed?
It is clear that the opioid and mental health crisis in First Nations is bad. But a new investigation by Indian Country Today and Yellowhead Institute reveals the depth of the challenge. Data obtained from Indigenous Services Canada indicates that prescriptions for classes of drugs designed to treat opiate addition and mental health issues have skyrocketed over the past twenty years. In the case of one class of drugs, spending has increased 3,649 per cent. Miles Morrisseau breaks down the numbers and speaks to communities affected by the crisis.
This factsheet accompanies the Policy Brief Opioid Crisis Devastates Indigenous Communities in Canada
