Stimulant Use and People Who Use Drugs Occasionally: High Risk of Overdose and Death People who use drugs occasionally are just as vulnerable to the Toxic Drug Crisis as people with Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and those who use drugs chronically. Occasional users are most likely to use drugs at special events or in private … Continued
Innovative solutions are crucial to addressing the complex challenges surrounding the overdose crisis, and Sunshine Labs hopes to be a beacon of evidence-based progress in the area of Safer Supply. However, There are some misconceptions about us that we want to acknowledge and clarify. In this article, we will challenge these myths, shedding light on … Continued
What does “PWUD” Mean? PWUD is an acronym of “People Who Use Drugs.” This term is used in discussions and studies concerning drug use, addiction, and harm reduction. It acknowledges the humanity and complexity of individuals dealing with substance use disorders (SUD) and highlights the need for compassionate approaches to addressing these issues. This term … Continued
The scope and breadth of the opioid crisis and the unfathomable numbers of opioid deaths seen across the continent, has forced a shift in how scientists, medical professionals and politicians have viewed substitution therapy and specifically “safe supply.” The recent successes and broader acceptance of heroin, hydromorphone, and fentanyl safe supply programs have experts now … Continued
First Nations communities in Canada have long grappled with the impact of substance use disorder (SUD), which have been exacerbated by ongoing barriers to accessing necessary support services. Intergenerational trauma and the legacy of residential schools looms large in understanding the challenges faced by Indigenous individuals seeking help for substance abuse. Shedding light on the … Continued
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects both children and adults, often impairing various aspects of daily function. Undiagnosed ADHD can lead people to seek coping mechanisms to manage their symptoms, which sometimes involves self-medication through substance use. Undiagnosed ADHD is a significant concern … Continued
The opioid crisis has been a growing public health concern for many years, with countless lives lost to drug overdose. In recent years, however, there has been a growing movement towards a safer supply of drugs. This approach seeks to provide those who use drugs with a safe and regulated source of drugs, rather than … Continued
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is known worldwide for its effective approach in helping individuals recover from alcohol addiction. Founded in 1935 by Bill Wilson, AA has helped millions of people around the world overcome alcohol dependence. Peer support groups, like AA, offer a supportive and safe environment where members can share experiences, find guidance, and receive emotional … Continued
Psychedelic-assisted therapy for health concerns that are unresponsive to conventional treatment shows promise. There is compelling evidence that psychedelics are a breakthrough therapy for depression and can also be effective at treating addiction, chronic pain and mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Addiction and Trauma Trauma is widely recognized as a key factor … Continued
Safer Supply is a term used by the Federal Government to describe the continuum of care emerging in response to the overdose crisis. Sunshine Labs has a role to play in ending this crisis by offering controlled substances that can be dispensed by health care workers to those people in dire need. Safer Supply In … Continued