Framing the Opioid Crisis in Canada: Divergent Issues in Public Debates

Framing the Opioid Crisis in Canada empirically examines public debates about the opioid crisis by politicians, journalists, and the general public, focusing on who they blame for the crisis and their proposed solutions. Delving into the complex public discourse surrounding one of the most pressing health crises in Canada, the research investigates how politicians, journalists, and the general public attribute responsibility for the opioid crisis and the solutions they propose. By employing a mixed method approach including the use of various digital tools, this book addresses critical gaps in understanding the opioid crisis. Who do these actors blame for the opioid crisis, and what are the differences and similarities in their perspectives? How have their sources and narratives evolved over time? What solutions do they propose, and how have these solutions changed? Revealing a polarized discussion and crisis communication that often overlooks the urgent needs of drug users, this is essential reading not only for Canada but also for international audiences facing similar challenges. The multidisciplinary approach provides valuable insights for different academics, health professionals, and policymakers for a better understanding of public health crises worldwide.