Over the past few years, the province of British Columbia has been grappling with an increasing opioid overdose crisis, with more than 2,500 toxic drug deaths in 2023 alone. As a result, there is a growing population facing a triple threat of mental illness, drug dependence and brain injuries.
Earlier this week, the BC government appointed Dr. Daniel Vigo as chief scientific advisor for psychiatry, toxic drugs and concurrent disorders. In his new position, Dr. Vigo will work closely with the provincial health officer, health authorities, Indigenous groups and people with lived experience to analyze existing mental health and addictions treatment services in BC.
