The Weekly

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.

Male comforts female partner by holding hands following loss of a child

Parents Describe Losing a Child to Substance Use

“Ryan was a little boy once,” reflects his father. “Good natured, imaginative, loved to play. He was an avid reader, loving, social and active.” Ryan died of...
645 candles each represent a person lost to overdose in BC Interior region in 2018

Candle Display Shines Light on Losses

Throughout the month of April 2019, a collection of 645 candles travelled the Interior of British Columbia – one for each person lost to drug overdose within...
Group of bylaw officers and office workers smile after completing overdose prevention training

Langley Overdose Training Shows We Can All Play a R.O.L.E.

An idea is like a pebble dropped into water – it can create a ripple that has far-reaching effects. The success of a naloxone training challenge in Vernon has...
Woman looking at smartphone comforted by positive messages on social media

Talking About Substance Use and Addiction Online

Language changes as our understanding of things grows. The more we understand something, the more we need language to evolve to reflect our growing knowledge...
Woman supports teenage boy to discuss traumatic past experiences

Childhood Trauma and Substance Use

This blog may trigger some people. If you need emotional support to deal with a concern or feeling,  or are looking for information on mental health resources...
Shadows of woman holding child’s hand suggest frightening and emotional memories

Stepping Stones to Instability: Abuse, Addiction and Loss

When it comes to substance use, it’s important to understand the full story. Read Kendra's story to see how many factors and experiences can build up to make...
Team of office workers at a credit union smile after completing overdose prevention training

Community Challenge Promotes Overdose Awareness

A unique approach to raising awareness about the overdose emergency is making an impact in Vernon – turning naloxone training into a community challenge. “We...
Woman sits outside on a hill looking out at the view, contemplating mental wellness

Difference Between Mental Health and Mental Illness

People are more aware now than ever before of how important it is to talk about mental health and mental illness. You might hear these terms more often. You...
Man with grey beard smiles as younger woman supports him to resolve trauma

The Connection Between Trauma and Addiction

Deeply painful or disturbing experiences can have long-lasting effects on people. These imprints are known as trauma and can lead people to look for ways to...
Medical professional speaks to patient about substance use treatment options

What is Opioid Agonist Treatment?

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is a medical condition that can be treated. Opioid agonist treatment (OAT) is usualy the first medication a healthcare professional...