CAMH President and CEO to present recommendations Ontario Select Committee on Mental Health and Addictions

CAMH President and CEO to present recommendations Ontario Select Committee on Mental Health and Addictions

 For Immediate Release – June 3, 2009 – (Toronto) – Today Dr. Paul Garfinkel, President and CEO of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) will present a report to the Ontario Select Committee on Mental Health and Addictions. CAMH’s submission makes recommendations to help improve the lives of those affected by addiction and mental illness.

In recent years the profile of addiction and mental health has made significant progress, with the creation of the National Mental Health Commission of Canada and important investments in community mental health in Ontario.  Yet many barriers remain that prevent identification of these problems and appropriate treatment.  For example, research tells us that 65% of Canadians experiencing multiple episodes of psychological distress did not consult a health professional about the problem.   

The strategy notes three impediments to stronger care – stigma, inadequate resources and the absence of an integrated system. Dr. Garfinkel stressed the key role that family doctors and other primary care providers play in identifying emerging mental health and addiction problems, referring patients promptly to specialized services, and providing ongoing support to help the patient take control of their own health.

“The committee should consider establishing an objective of increasing mental health and addiction services, particularly community supports and housing, says Dr. Garfinkel.  

To read CAMH’s full report please visit: Submission to the Select Committee on Mental Health and Addictions, June 2009 (PDF)

Media contact: Michael Torres, CAMH Media Relations, at 416 595 6015.

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The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) is Canada's largest mental health and addiction teaching hospital, as well as one of the world's leading research centres in the area of addiction and mental health. CAMH combines clinical care, research, education, policy development, prevention and health promotion to transform the lives of people affected by mental health and addiction issues.

 

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