In-class experience resource

What are the facts and key takeaways around opioid use?

Opioids are drugs with pain relieving properties that are used primarily to treat pain.
Fentanyl is one of the most powerful opioids. A small amount can kill you.
Fentanyl can be prescribed but can also be made and sold illegally and mixed with other street drugs.
Around ¾ of opioid-related deaths involve fentanyl.
If you are prescribed an opioid, always follow the instructions of your doctor.
Know the signs of an opioid overdose.
Naloxone temporarily reverses an opioid overdose and you can get it for free at most pharmacies in Canada.
If you witness an overdose, call 911, stay and give naloxone if you have it.
Even if you have taken drugs or have some on you, the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides some legal protection if you stay and call 911.
Stigma prevents people from getting help— addiction is not a choice.

How to avoid stigmatising language around substance use?

The language you use has a direct and deep impact on people around you. You can reduce stigma by changing the words you use to talk about drug use. Using kind words can make it easier for someone to speak up, to feel understood or to receive help.

Topic	Instead of	Use
People who use drugs	addicts junkies users	people who use drugs/substances people with an addiction or substance use disorder
Drug use	drug/substance abuse drug/substance misuse problematic drug/substance use	drug/substance use addiction/substance use disorder drug dependence

Topic: People who use drugs
Instead of
addicts junkies users
Use
people who use drugs/substances people with an addiction or substance use disorder

Topic: Drug use
Instead of
drug/substance abuse drug/substance misuse problematic drug/substance use
Use
drug/substance use addiction/substance use disorder drug dependence

What are the signs of an opioid overdose?

Blue or gray lips or nails

Dizziness and confusion

Can't be woken up

Choking, gurgling or snoring sounds

Slow, weak, or no breathing

Drowsiness or difficulty staying awake

Resources:

Explore more activities and the Stigma Gallery via HealthCanadaExperiences.ca
Kids Help Phone is Canada’s only 24/7 e-mental health service offering free, confidential support to young people in English and French.
Get help and find other resources regarding substance use.
Access more information on the Opioid Overdose Crisis in Canada: Canada.ca/opioids.
How to talk to a family member or friend about their drug or alcohol use.