Drugs, whether purchased legally or illegally are commonly used in our local communities. Sometimes drugs that are used can cause people harm. The current illegal drug supply is very unpredictable (toxic) and can put people at risk of overdose. The health unit works to reduce harms associated with drug use and to raise the awareness of its impact on our health and the health of our communities.
We:
- Participate in the Simcoe Muskoka Drug Strategy (formerly Simcoe Muskoka Opioid Strategy).
- Engage with and train staff of designated agencies/services in the use and distribution of Naloxone kits.
- Collaborate with community and provincial partners on current drug-related issues, promoting a public health approach.
- Increase awareness and educate individuals, communities and partners on the potential harms associated with drug use.
- Collaborate with community partners in the development of substance use prevention activities including providing education and addressing the root causes of substance use.
What Matters to Your Health
What is a drug?
Drugs can be prescribed by a doctor, bought over the counter, or purchased on the street. Any drug can be misused in the following ways:
- Not taking it as prescribed
- Taking someone else’s medication
- Taking it with alcohol or other drugs
- Purchasing it on the street
Why do people use drugs?
People use drugs for a variety of reasons.
- Illness/disease
- Physical pain
- Emotional pain/past trauma
- Curiosity
- Socializing
- Stress/anxiety/depression
- Relaxation
What can happen if drugs are misused?
Drug use can:
- Affect a person’s ability to do routine things, like decision-making, driving, walking and working.
- Cause dependency, which can lead to substance use disorder.
- Lead to overdose, which can cause death.
- Affect relationships.
- Cause harm to physical and mental well-being.
For more information:
Call Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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