Rising opioid overdose deaths should be N.S. election issue, advocate says

As Week 3 of the provincial election campaign begins, there are questions about how Nova Scotia's major political parties plan to combat the rising number of opioid overdose deaths. 

As of Nov. 1, there were 60 confirmed or probable opioid toxicity deaths in 2024, according to the Department of Health. There were 73 in 2023 — a record high according to the province's data. 

Bertha Harrison, who lives in Springhill, N.S., is a part of a group of 20 people called Save our Families looking to combat addiction and overdoses in the community of about 2,600 people. 

It's a personal issue for Harrison. Her son Daniel died at a shelter while receiving addiction care in Moncton.

"My vote will go for whoever is offering or hoping to offer us the best options," Harrison said in an interview.

Leaders weigh in

Three years ago, the Progressive Conservatives were elected with a promise of universal mental health care that included creating a minister of mental health and addictions. It was Brian Comer at dissolution.

"It's something we care deeply about, and care deeply enough to establish a minister," said PC Leader Tim Houston at a media availability last week. 

"I think there's a number of initiatives in place … people can use the YourHealthNS and reach out in the moment where maybe they need to talk to somebody," he said when asked about rising overdose deaths.

Harrison said access to 24/7 crisis lines is a start, but there needs to be in-person options for those who don't have access to cellphones, 

"I believe that we need to have an office where they can meet with someone and … discuss their issues," said Harrison. 

The Liberal Party is promising walk-in mental health clinics, as well as mental health and addiction hubs.

"I have not spoken to an MLA from any party who doesn't have desperate people coming to them for help," said Liberal Leader Zach Churchill. "Despite Tim Houston's promise to have universal mental health care support, there is not enough capacity right now." 

NDP Leader Claudia Chender said the crisis is growing but offered no details about her party's plan. 

"It's something that we would focus on and we'll be talking about that in the days to come," said Chender. 

Access to care 

Harrison said access to recovery homes is something she sees as vital for those living with addiction. 

"We need more subsidized or free recovery places for those that are using substances regardless of what type they are," said Harrison, who adds she would like to see more in-person support in Springhill. 

In the meantime, Save our Families is focused on operating a warming centre one day a week at a local parish hall. The group has previously held harm-reduction events, and Harrison hopes education can help. 

"It's no different than any other disease," said Harrison. 

"You have to understand what has happened to that person and why they're in this position. You don't have to accept it, you don't have to condone it, but you do have to, I believe, understand it."