As the toxic drug crisis continues to plague communities across northwestern Ontario, First Nations are training community members in best practices for working with those experiencing addiction.
The Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority (SLFNHA) provides services to members of 33 First Nations, 28 of which are remote.
In 2021, the organization says SLFNHA band members were hospitalized for mental health and addictions issues at six times the provincial rate.
As well, between 2011 and 2021, more than 13 per cent of unnatural deaths reported in SLFNHA’s catchment area were linked to alcohol and drug-related causes.
“Addiction is a lifetime struggle for a lot of people,” said Janet Gordon, SLFNHA’s vice president of community health.
Last week, SLFNHA released a new Opioid Use Disorder Guide for community members and local service providers.