Ontario mayors are expressing cautious support for Operation Deterrence, which combats the illegal movement of drugs, guns and people
Author Archives: Alexandra Keeler
Alexandra Keeler is a Toronto-based reporter focused on covering mental health, drugs and addiction, crime and social issues. Alexandra has more than a decade of freelance writing experience.
Posted inDrugs
Is Trump right that Canada has a fentanyl problem?
Trump’s tariff threat has ignited debate over Canada’s role in fentanyl trafficking. Sources say Canada is a key player
Posted inDrugs
Kensington Market’s overdose prevention site is saving lives but killing business
Business owners and residents weigh in on the controversial closure of Kensington Market’s overdose prevention site
Posted inDrugs
When pleasure becomes pain: How substance use damages the body and brain
Sustained drug use profoundly impacts brain function and physical health, leading to irreversible damage and long-term health risks
Posted inDrugs
Provinces are underspending on mental health and addiction, report says
The provinces are receiving billions in federal funds to address mental health and substance use. Why are so many spending so little?
![Safe needle disposal box at Deverill Square Gyro 2 Park in Nanaimo, B.C., Sept. 5, 2024. [Photo credit: Alexandra Keeler]](https://i0.wp.com/www.canadianaffairs.news/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMAGE-2024-09-09-19_26_57.jpg?resize=1200%2C900&ssl=1)
Posted inDrugs
Nanaimo syringe stabbing reignites calls for involuntary care
Some politicians, police and community groups argue involuntary care is key to addressing severe addiction and mental health issues
![Kensington Market Overdose Prevention Site in Toronto, Dec. 18, 2024. [Photo credit: Alexandra Keeler]](https://i0.wp.com/www.canadianaffairs.news/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/photo_2025-01-02-14.13.21.jpeg?resize=1200%2C900&ssl=1)
Posted inDrugs
New lawsuit challenges Ontario’s decision to prohibit safe consumption services
Critics says Ontario’s plan to replace supervised consumption sites with HART Hubs will exacerbate harms to drug addicts and strain the health-care system
Posted inDrugs
How Alberta’s Red Woman House supports Indigenous women in recovery
Alberta’s Red Woman House helps Indigenous women recover from addiction through its emphasis on cultural practices and long-term recovery
Posted inDrugs
Cannabis survey reveals many positive trends—and some concerning ones
Cannabis legalization has achieved many of policymakers key goals, survey reveals. But many users remain unaware of cannabis’ key risks
Posted inDrugs
Is ‘masculinity’ behind male loneliness and substance use disorders?
Men who adhere to traditional masculinity norms are more likely to be lonely, experts say — and at risk of struggling with addiction