Scotland has seen a concerning rise in drug-related deaths, with 1,172 fatalities recorded in 2023 - a 12% increase after two years of declines. Dr Tara Shivaji, a consultant at Public Health Scotland (PHS), highlighted that these statistics represent real people whose families are now grappling with grief. The unregulated drugs market in Scotland is becoming increasingly toxic and unpredictable, with a surge in potent synthetic drugs which are often mixed with other substances, with deadly consequences. Dr Shivaji says that Scotland's drug crisis is deeply rooted in social issues such as poverty, homelessness, trauma, and stigma. Addressing these underlying factors is essential for tackling the crisis. PHS is committed to working with various organisations to reduce these inequalities and improve public health outcomes, recognising that there are no simple solutions to this complex challenge.