Reduce Stigma Surrounding Opioid Use in Your Community
The opioid poisoning crisis is one of the most pressing public health issues of our time. The aim of the Becoming an Opioid Harm Reduction Champion course is to reduce the harms associated with opioid poisoning through increased awareness and effective communication.
This course provides you with accurate and non-stigmatizing information to empower you to take action and make a difference. You'll learn how you can play a role in reducing stigma, encouraging positive conversations, and educating others on how to respond to opioid poisoning emergencies. By learning to use your personal and professional networks to advocate for this cause, you become an essential part of the solution.
This course is for:
Anyone interested in reducing stigma around opioid use, learning more about the opioid poisoning crisis in Canada, and discovering ways that they can help (must be 13 years of age or older). This course has no prerequisites.
Becoming an OHR Champion course format:
Discover the freedom of self-paced online learning! Dive into our training materials independently and complete the course in just 30 minutes (or less, depending on your pace).
This initiative was funded by a contribution from Health Canada’s Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP). The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the views of Health Canada.
Course Curriculum
Module 1: Opioid Harm Reduction at the Canadian Red Cross
Support the Canadian Red Cross's Opioid Harm Reduction project and learn how to combat the escalating opioid poisoning crisis. The first lesson introduces you to some harm reduction strategies, like using naloxone and supervised consumption sites, and emphasizes reducing the stigma around substance use.
Discover the importance of using person-first language and spreading positive messages to challenge stigmatizing language and deepen your understanding of the societal impact of opioid poisoning. Our goal is to ensure that anyone experiencing an opioid emergency has immediate access to life-saving assistance. Let's make a difference together.
Module 2: Opioid Poisoning Emergencies
The second lesson of the “Becoming an Opioid Harm Reduction Champion” course will teach you how to recognize an opioid poisoning emergency.
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to identify the steps involved in responding to an opioid poisoning emergency. Join us on this journey to become the OHR champion that the world needs.
Module 3: Your Role as an Opioid Harm Reduction Champion
This lesson is an invitation to become an active participant in opioid harm reduction efforts. As an OHR Champion, you'll be equipped with accurate and non-stigmatizing messaging you can share with your social networks to help reduce stigma and harm in your community.
The course emphasizes peer-led learning, the power of bite-sized messages, and responsible use of social media. Learn how to foster positive, respectful conversations, correct misinformation, and uphold neutrality while promoting a healthier community.
Module 4: Your Resource Kit
In "Your Resource Kit" lesson, gain access to tools and resources essential for your role as an OHR Champion.
Spread the word on social media about opioid harm reduction with ready-to-use and personalized graphics, whilst learning about naloxone accessibility in your community.
By the end of this module, you will be equipped with knowledge and tools necessary to make a significant impact in your community. Plus, by sharing Canadian Red Cross OHR content on social media, you can help spread the word and make an even bigger impact. Let's do this together!
Module 5: Next Steps
This module is your guide on how to continue your journey as an Opioid Harm Reduction Champion post-course.
Learn how to access your OHR Champion resource kit and understand the support channels available to you for any project-related queries or feedback. Discover other opportunities within the CRC, such as becoming an OHR Leader or volunteering in different capacities.
This module also provides resources to stay connected with the CRC's work and initiatives. Upon completion, you'll be able to generate your certificate, marking the successful conclusion of your training and the beginning of your journey as an OHR Champion.
This initiative was funded by a contribution from Health Canada’s Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP). The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the views of Health Canada.