Access to mental health and addictions support for youth and caregivers, is about to get a lot easier.
The province is investing $3.2 million on eight new Integrated Youth Services sites that will support a range of mental health services, all in one building.
It’s for those between the ages of 12 and 25 and includes mental health services, such as counselling and peer support, to social services such as housing and income assistance.
“When you or your child is dealing with a mental health issue, the last thing you should be worried about is navigating a complicated system to find the right supports,” said Minister Comer. “What these new sites give to people and families is one door to walk through to get connected with the right support at the right time.”
Each site provides the same core services:
— mental health and substance use supports
— primary health care
— education, employment and training supports
— peer supports for youth and families
— social and community services
— other services based on local needs and priorities
A team from IWK Health’s mental health and addictions program will lead the initiative and will soon begin community engagement across Nova Scotia. The sessions will provide in-depth information on the model and how interested organizations can learn more about the process that will be used to determine the location of the eight sites.
The province’s plan to fix healthcare, with its Action for Health initiative, has identified Integrated Youth Services as part of its solution. It’s also an important part of the government’s commitment to universal mental healthcare for all Nova Scotians.
“Integrated Youth Services is a proven approach that is already making a difference across the country and around the world. It’s so exciting to bring integrated youth services to Nova Scotia youth and families. This wouldn’t be possible without this tremendous financial investment from the provincial government.”
– Daphne Hutt-MacLeod, Director, Integrated Youth Services-Nova Scotia, IWK Health
Quick Facts:
— the first Integrated Youth Services site will open by March 31, 2024
— all eight sites – two in each health zone – will be open by March 31, 2027
— the Integrated Youth Services model of care is a best-practice approach nationally and internationally found in five Canadian provinces, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland
