SOUND OFF: Opportunity for community dialogue on mental health and addictions
-
Share on Facebook
-
Share on Bluesky
-
Share on X
- Copy Link
B.C. IS FACING A CRISIS IN MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTIONS, and we need to be talking about it more. This is why my colleague, BC United MLA Elenore Sturko, and I will be hosting a community conversation on this issue in Merritt.
Our province’s overdose crisis continues unabated and despite a public health emergency being declared seven years ago, countless families continue to deal with unimaginable heartache and grief. Last year, 2,314 lives were lost to a toxic drug overdose — the deadliest year on record — and the situation doesn’t seem to be improving so far in 2023.
Our BC United plan would overhaul the delivery of mental health services and build a recovery-oriented system of care for those suffering from addiction. Replicating innovative models like Coquitlam’s Red Fish Healing Centre in regions across the province will help give people with severe and complex needs the 24/7 support they need. Removing user fees at publicly-funded treatment centres will remove barriers for those seeking help. Creating regional recovery communities will allow people to stay for up to a year with individualized, holistic treatment support.
The plan is called Better is Possible because we firmly believe that recovery is possible, when people are given the treatment, supports, compassion and care they deserve — at the very moment they make that important decision that it’s time to seek help.
