Article content continued

The latest provincial data found that nearly 500 people died due to fentanyl overdoses in the first three quarters of 2018. Officials say it’s possible Alberta has entered a plateau phase with fewer deaths on the horizon.

There were 158 fentanyl-related deaths in the third quarter ending Sept. 30, according to the report. That’s down from the 169 and 167 deaths reported in the first and second quarters respectively.

Mason said despite the possible plateau in deaths due to opioid overdoses, communities are still fearful.

“There’s a lot of anxiety, there’s a lot of hurt,” she said. “I don’t believe this is going to go away in six months.”

Navigator Stephanie Calf-Robe, based in Lethbridge, runs a support group for those battling opioid addictions. But other programs she’s launched include cultural activities like Indigenous skirt making or singing.

“My interaction with the community is mainly geared toward cultural programming and reconnecting people to our Indigenous ways,” she said, adding her programs aim in part to address intergenerational trauma.

She also brings lived experience to her work.

“I was an addict, an alcoholic,” she said. “Because I had these cultural teachings, I knew that there was another way.”

She stresses that in Lethbridge, there are additionally a variety of medical services and treatment centres for those searching for help.

Shawn Singer, programs manager at the Sik-Ooh-Kotoki Friendship Society in Lethbridge, said the agency also focuses on storytelling, one way to connect elders and youth.

“It’s really important for Indigenous people to reclaim their identity,” said Singer.

“There’s still a lot of stigmatization and stereotypes. When you add in someone who has an addiction, it’s even more challenging,” he said. “There is a lot of shame attached to it, so they tend to hide.”

He added that the December holiday season is a particularly difficult time for those seeking help to maintain sobriety.

“It’s a community coordinated effort that needs to be put in place,” he said.

cclancy@postmedia.com

twitter.com/clareclancy