Health

A post-pandemic spike in drug deaths continued in N.L. last year. The biggest culprit? Cocaine

Jeff Bourne, the founder of U-Turn Addiction Recovery in Carbonear, N.L., recently sold his pickup truck and took a moment to reflect on the many friends he has lost to addiction. As he counted 30 individuals who had once ridden in his truck but were no longer alive, Bourne expressed his sadness at the increasing number of deaths among his circle of friends.

Last year, Newfoundland and Labrador saw a record number of drug-related deaths, with at least 74 individuals losing their lives due to substance abuse. The majority of these deaths were deemed accidental, with cocaine being the leading cause of fatalities, contributing to 34 deaths. Fentanyl and benzodiazepines were also significant factors in the rising death toll, with 17 and 14 deaths respectively.

Tammy Bourne, peer support lead at U-Turn, highlighted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on addiction and overdose rates. She noted that the stress and isolation brought about by the pandemic had led many individuals in recovery to relapse, resulting in a spike in deaths among long-time participants in the program.

Dr. Nash Denic, the Chief Medical Examiner of Newfoundland and Labrador, emphasized the dangers of mixing opioids and stimulants, particularly cocaine. He pointed out that while opioid overdoses can be reversed with naloxone, there is no antidote for cocaine, making it a particularly lethal substance. In cases where individuals had both stimulants and opioids in their system, naloxone was often ineffective in saving their lives.

The Bourne’s, who have both experienced addiction and mental illness themselves, operate U-Turn as a peer support network to help others struggling with substance abuse. However, the increasing number of deaths within their community has taken a toll on them emotionally. Despite the challenges they face, they continue to provide support to those in need, serving as both friends and mentors to those seeking help.

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As they navigate the difficult task of supporting individuals through grief and preventing relapse, the Bourne’s are committed to making a difference in the lives of those struggling with addiction. Their dedication to their work and the well-being of others is evident in their tireless efforts to provide support and guidance to those in need.

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