Prenatal Opioid Exposure and Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome: A Research Project with 13 First Nations Communities in Ontario

The questions were focused on the impacts of prenatal opioid exposure, the strengths in the community that were helping to address prenatal opioid exposure, the gifts and strengths of children impacted by prenatal opioid exposure, and what strategies would be helpful to prevent prenatal opioid exposure, and further support those impacted. [...] Throughout the project, we have been reminded about the importance of balance within the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of ourselves; balance and maintaining a careful equilibrium of energy within ourselves; adjusting to the cycles of the seasons, the moon, and our own life course; and relationships. [...] Recognize The first section of the report shares the issues both qualitative and quantitative ndings on the impacts and issues associated with prenatal opioid exposure. [...] All agreed that the challenge is to understand how to stop the cycle of trauma and addiction and prevent the youngest generation from turning to drug use and addiction. [...] Most participants spoke of the importance of the rst stage of life being a crucial period for child development and were concerned that the combination of complex health issues and lack of attachment would have lifelong impacts on children’s development and well-being.