Quebec is on track to exceed 600 drug overdose fatalities for the second year in a row, prompting calls from experts for increased efforts to address this concerning trend. The province’s public health institute, known as the INSPQ, documented 645 confirmed or suspected drug overdose deaths in 2024, marking the highest number ever recorded in Quebec. As of September 2025, the INSPQ has reported 453 deaths, projecting a total of around 604 deaths for the year.
Those working closely with individuals battling drug addiction have observed a rising demand for assistance, while available resources remain limited. Anthony Berger, a clinical supervisor at Dunham House in Quebec’s Eastern Townships, highlighted a 16% increase in applications for the English-language residential treatment facility for substance use and mental health in both 2024 and 2025. However, with only a 38-bed capacity, the facility struggles to accommodate everyone in need.
Berger emphasized the urgent need for increased government funding and support for treatment centers, citing recent cuts that have impacted their operations. He stressed the importance of addressing the prevention aspect of addiction care, underscoring the critical need for a comprehensive continuum of care that includes social housing and safe drug supply measures.
While Quebec’s drug overdose statistics are lower compared to provinces like British Columbia, which recorded over 2,000 toxic drug-related deaths in 2024, Patricia Conrod, a professor of psychiatry and addiction at the Université de Montréal, noted a concerning shift in Quebec’s trends. Unlike provinces with historically high overdose rates, Quebec has not reached a saturation point, indicating the need for proactive measures to prevent a similar crisis.
According to a statement from the ministry of health and social services, the rise in opioid and drug-related deaths is closely monitored due to the evolving illicit drug market and increased drug contamination. The ministry highlighted the changing landscape of drug-related issues, extending beyond opioids to other substances.
Jade Lalumière, a social worker at Maison Benoît-Labre in Montreal, expressed concerns about the escalating impact of addiction seen at their facility. Lalumière highlighted the challenges faced by addiction services, particularly in the face of public scrutiny and judgment. The Maison Benoît-Labre faced criticism for its location near an elementary school, leading to potential relocation under a provincial law.
Lalumière emphasized the critical role of public perception in shaping policies and services for individuals struggling with addiction, advocating for approaches like safe-supply programs to reduce harm and save lives. She underscored the importance of supporting individuals battling addiction and providing them with the necessary resources for recovery.