Indigenous Knowledge and Community-Partner Responses to
Addressing the Opioid and Drug Poisoning Crisis
Since 2016, Canada has faced an unprecedented overdose crisis, with Indigenous communities particularly affected due to the lasting impacts of colonization.
The crisis involves not just physical addiction but also social disconnection and systemic harm.
Recent data indicates that Alberta is one of the hardest-hit provinces, with Indigenous populations experiencing high rates of opioid-related hospitalizations and deaths (Alberta Health, 2021; CBC, 2019; Health Canada, 2019).
Indigenous communities, with their extensive experience and knowledge bases, offer valuable insights for health and service providers. The introduction of opioids into Indigenous communities, initially as prescription painkillers, highlights the responsibility of medical and health systems in aiding community healing.
The Alberta First Nations Overdose Crisis Knowledge-to-Action Hub aims to use effective communication strategies and share best practices. Its goal is to empower various sectors to enhance their capacity and integrate evidence-informed practices, equipping them to better address and mitigate the consequences of the overdose crisis.
Terms to know
-
Opioids are a group of substances commonly used in medicine for pain relief. The term “opiate” is sometimes used synonymously and refers to drugs derived from the opium poppy (e.g., morphine and codeine). The term opioid refers to all substances that act on opioid receptors, including natural, semisynthetic (e.g., heroin), and fully synthetic (e.g., fentanyl) opioids.
Opioids such as methadone, buprenorphine, or a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone (Suboxone) can also be used in treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) as part of opioid agonist therapy (OAT).
-
Opioids are highly addictive substances. Physical and/or psychological depedence can occur quickly with repeated use.
As tolerance to opioids builds, individuals may increase their dosage and/or obtain opioids from unregulated sources to sustain the desired effects or avoid withdrawal symptoms, increasing the likelihood of accidental overdose.
Risk factors for OUD include current substance abuse, trauma, and social disruption.
The terms substance use disorder (SUD) or opioid use disorder (OUD) are often used in place of terms like addiction, to be specific and avoid potentially stigmatizing language.
-
Opioid agonist therapy (OAT) is a medically-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD).
As part of Opioid Agonist Therapy (OAT), individuals are prescribed opioid agonists like methadone or buprenorphine/naloxone (also known as Suboxone). OAT can effectively mitigate withdrawal symptoms, curb opioid cravings, and typically has minimal intoxicating side effects. By reducing the physical, mental, and social harm associated with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD), OAT plays a crucial role in promoting overall well-being when used in conjunction with other supports.
-
The social determinants of health (SDoH) are “the conditions in which people are born, grow, work, live, and age, and the wider set of forces and systems shaping the conditions of daily life” (WHO, n.d.)
These factors include, but are not limited to income, education, working and living conditions, food security, housing, social inclusion, and access to accessible health services. As such, the SDoH influences health outcomes and disparities.
Indigenous health scholars and practitioners have emphasized the role of colonization as a significant determinant of health, as trauma, dispossession, displacement, and social disruption have placed a burden on the physical, mental, and social well-being of Indigenous People.
Dialogue on First Nations–led overdose response, grounded in community dialogue, historical context, and Indigenous approaches to healing.
Conversations
Community-Led Overdose Response
Dr. Rita Henderson and collaborator Billy Wadsworth describe work supporting a First Nations–led response to the overdose crisis. Drawing on dialogue with Elders and communities, they situate substance use within the impacts of colonization and ongoing stress, and emphasize collective approaches to healing and action.
Ethical Space and Healing
This conversation reflects on how that work has evolved. Dr. Rita Henderson and collaborator Billy Wadsworth discuss ethical space, collaboration, and the importance of understanding historical context, as well as the role of Indigenous teachings in supporting healing and resilience.
Chokecherry A Symbol of Resilience
Chokecherry is an important shrub or small tree for many Indigenous communities in Alberta, valued for its nutritional, medicinal, and ceremonial uses.
Its berries, bark, and roots have been used for generations in food, healing, and cultural practices, symbolizing resilience and connection to the land.
Illustration by Simon Payne, for the Opioids & Drug Poisoning Knowledge-to-Action Hub
Contact: simonpayne4567@gmail.com
Want to connect or learn more?
Explore the resources, summaries, reports, and bulletins developed by the Alberta First Nations Opioids & Drug Poisoning Crisis Action-to-Knowledge Hub.