Province gives $2 million to B.C. care facilities for mental health treatment and suicide prevention

KAMLOOPS — The provincial government announced funding Thursday (Sept. 22) to improve the quality of care in mental health and substance use treatment settings, such as emergency departments.

The province is putting $2 million toward the initiative in an attempt to aid British Columbians experiencing mental health problems and suicidal thoughts.

“This will be a partnership with regional health authorities so we can reduce suicide deaths in BC. We’re supporting health professionals so they have the tools they need to provide the best possible care for people,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions.

The B.C. Coroner’s Service reports that there were 582 suicide deaths investigated in B.C. in 2021 and with this funding people suffering from suicidal thoughts can know they are not alone.

“This critical investment by the provincial government comes at a pivotal time when we are actually focusing on the recovery and especially dealing with higher volumes in mental health and addiction services,” says Dr. Ashok Krishnamoorthy, Medical Director of Richmond Hospital.

The changes will bring quality improvements to care settings in all health authorities.

It’s the latest funding dedicated to upgrading care-provider training, intake screening, management and targeted care aimed at reducing suicide deaths.

“We now spend $2.8 billion dollars a year across government on mental health and substance use care but we need to continue to expand access to mental health supports across the province so everyone can get the care they need wherever they are,” Malcolmson adds.