Opioid Crisis = Housing Crisis

Lack of Stable & Affordable Housing

The lack of stable and affordable housing in urban centres of Canada can lead to several related issues that contribute to substance abuse. Economic stress resulting from housing instability can make individuals more susceptible to turning to drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism.

Hopelessness & Despair

Moreover, the inability to afford housing can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair, further worsening substance abuse problems. Homelessness, which often stems from the lack of affordable housing, presents challenges such as trauma, mental health issues, and limited access to support services, making individuals more vulnerable to substance abuse.

Isolation & Alienation

In overcrowded living conditions and high cost of rents resulting from housing scarcity, substance abuse can spread more quickly, compounding existing mental health issues. Displacement caused by the housing crisis disrupts family and friend networks, increasing feelings of isolation and alienation, which can drive individuals to substance abuse in the absence of support systems.

Absence of Affordable Healthcare Options & A Lack of Family Doctors

Additionally, economic hardship may drive some individuals to self-medicate with prescription opioids to manage physical or emotional pain, especially in the absence of affordable healthcare options and a lack of family doctors. Moreover, vulnerable communities facing housing instability may become targets for drug trafficking, deepening substance abuse issues.

Criminalization of Addiction

Furthermore, the criminalization of addiction by the criminal justice system, particularly in marginalized communities, perpetuates cycles of addiction, imprisonment, and poverty.

Depression & Anxiety

Housing instability and economic stress can also worsen mental health challenges like depression and anxiety, further fueling substance abuse.

Limited Access to Mental Health Services

In contrast, limited access to mental health services worsens the connection between the housing crisis and the opioid crisis.