The Leeds Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit is observing International Overdose Awareness Day this week. The day itself fall on Saturday, August 31st.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. Linna Li says numbers in the area are shocking.
She says the numbers are likely not complete either. Over the last 5 years, these numbers have fluctuated and in 2023 they rose to 18 confirmed and probable deaths and 33 suspected deaths.
David Amot, Mental Health and Substance Use Public Health Nurse Coordinator says they work on harm reduction strategies with several partners.
Dr. Li says harm reduction focuses on addressing the immediate risks by putting the person first and taking a nonjudgmental stance to drug addiction, recognizing both the benefits, harms, and other consequences of using these substances.
She also notes that harm reduction strategies have been proven to reduce overdose deaths.
You can support a couple of local events to show your support. The first is in Kemptville on Thursday at 5 pm at 1107 French Settlement Road. The second one takes place in Brockville Friday on the Courthouse Greens from noon until 4.
You can visit the health unit’s page on Drug Use & Harm Reduction online to find out more, here.
You can listen to the full interview below.