Hear from everyday change-makers who are working to stop overdoses. Learn from those who are helping to put a human face on the overdose crisis in our province. Powerful stories that can help others heal, provide hope and remind us of our humanity. Share these stories with others and get involved in your community. Together we can build greater awareness about overdose.

A crowd of people view the HOPE display in Vancouver

HOPE Display Message Grows Beyond Vancouver Island

Following the loss of her son Matthew to overdose in 2017, Judith felt a strong need to get people talking. She created a heartfelt memorial to show the...
Background of blurred city lights

Nearly 3 British Columbians Dying Each Day Due to Toxic, Illicit Drugs

Illicit drug death totals in recent years have been higher than motor-vehicle incidents, suicides and homicides combined in B.C. Andy Watson, Manager of...
Woman types text message intently

Talking About Addiction in Compassionate Ways

Words are powerful. Whether said out loud, typed in a text or on social media. When it comes to talking about substance use and addiction, whether online or...
Rows of lit memorial candles honour people who have lost their lives to overdose

Healing After Loss from an Overdose

There is no rulebook when it comes to coping with the tragedy of lossing a loved one to substance use. We grieve intensely because we love intensely. Here are...
Two friends look out at the ocean while having a courageous conversation

Root Causes of Addiction

Substance use challenges are often the result of circumstances, not choices. Help reduce stigma and increase compassion. Learn about root causes that could be...
Young woman searches the internet for harm reduction information

What Happens if You Mix Substances?

Mixing substances – also known as polysubstance use – is when people take more than one substance at the same time. Different substances, including...
Manjot Sanghera talks about mental health to reduce stigma

How Youth Can Help Reduce Stigma

As an ambassador with the South Asian Youth Mental Health (SAYMH) program, Manjot Sanghera is one of a team of young people working to reduce stigma in B.C....
Two male construction workers discuss substance use during coffee break

Safer Substance Use: Axe and Looking out for Friends

Axe is like a lot of young guys. He went to college. He works in the trades. He’s connected to his family. Axe also uses substances. “I started smoking weed in...
Banner of brightly coloured flags with names of people who have died of overdoses honours losses

5 Ways People Made a Difference in 2019

Throughout 2019, people from all walks of life worked hard to save lives, reduce stigma and raise awareness of the overdose emergency in B.C. These change-...
Mother and child enjoy looking at festive lights

Mental Health and Self-Care Over the Holidays

During the holidays, many people hope to spend quality time with family, friends and loved ones. As well as feelings of happiness and celebration, the holiday...