Brain injury a shadow crisis amid overdose deaths in British Columbia
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A growing number of people in British Columbia are suffering from brain injuries due to overdoses, with experts warning of a 'shadow crisis' of brain injury and concurrent mental illness. The province has seen over 18,000 deaths from toxic illicit drugs since 2016, but the number of overdose survivors is estimated to be five to ten times higher, with many requiring ongoing care and support.
In British Columbia, a rising number of people are experiencing brain injuries due to overdoses. This has led to a 'shadow crisis' of brain injury and mental illness. Experts warn that harm-reduction policies have unintentionally harmed people with mental impairments. Over 18,000 people have died from toxic illicit drugs in the province since 2016. However, the number of overdose survivors is likely much higher, with thousands requiring ongoing care. The BC Centre for Disease Control notes that people who have experienced a drug poisoning or overdose are 19.5 times more likely to suffer brain damage.
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