As International Overdose Awareness Day approaches, addictions and substance abuse workers are reflecting on the progress, or lack there of, that they’ve seen in the community regarding overdoses.

Executive Director of Prairie Harm Reduction, Kayla DeWong, says although Saskatoon isn’t moving backwards, she certainly isn’t seeing any progress when it comes to drug abuse. She suggests the city is dealing with a lack of resources, and it needs an all-encompassing, strategized, holistic approach to help people recover.

However, she says simply removing the substance is not a fix, and there needs to be aftercare, housing, mental health care, and better harm reduction support in order to generate a positive change.
She adds that post-treatment support is crucial to help those who are struggling start a new life. Typical 28-day rehabilitation programs aren’t enough, as DeWong says the ideal length of time is 9 months to a year to see full recovery.
In addition to increased drug abuse and overdoses, DeWong says she has never seen the current level of homelessness in the last 18 years that she has worked in the community.

On Thursday there will be various events going on throughout the city to raise awareness such as a barbeque at Mental Health and Addictions Services, ceremonies to acknowledge people who’ve been lost to overdose, and a movie night, vigil and speaker panel hosted by YXE Social Justice on 20th Street.