With Bell Let’s Talk day approaching on January 25, I wanted to share some exciting updates about increasing mental health resources for children and adolescents. After COVID-19, the lasting effects of the pandemic have led to a surge in mental health struggles. In light of this, a centre for child and adolescent mental health has been constructed and will open sometime soon this year.
As a member of the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation Youth Council, I am excited to share all the details regarding this new centre that will have such a positive effect on the lives of so many people in the near future. The centre has been built in partnership with the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation and Alberta Health Services, and was just recently named, The Summit: Marian & Jim Sinneave Centre for Youth Resilience.
Currently, children and young adults who face mental health crises have limited options such as having to wait hours at emergency departments, which are often extremely busy. The Summit will provide direct access to on-site assessment and therapy, depending on the child or young adults’ needs. With the University of Calgary as its research partner, the new centre will also involve cutting-edge research and training for new specialists.
Depending on the nature and severity of the mental health issue, children and adolescents are provided with three options in this new centre:
- Walk-in Clinic: an opportunity for youth and their family to receive help from specially trained doctors through one-hour therapy sessions, access to psychiatrists, referrals to other services, and development of personalized plans. Self-referrals are welcome alongside referrals from other mental health programs or professionals in education, health, etc.
- Day Hospital: a place where young people can receive therapy, medication management, outreach to provide support when transitioning back to their communities, and support for education. The Day Hospital aims to reduce young peoples’ stay in the hospital through a smooth transition back to their regular lives.
- Intensive Treatment: for those struggling with acute and escalating mental health symptoms, the Intensive Treatment service offers thorough assessments, therapy, and a multitude of other resources to help those in need.
How can you support mental health initiatives in your community?
- Break the stigma surrounding mental health by speaking up, educating yourself, and raising awareness.
- Fundraise and donate to the Alberta Children Hospital Foundation–any contributions make a great impact.
- Show your support through advocating for increased mental health awareness, or by being there for your friends, family, and yourself when going through hard times.
Image, Cover Image/Thumbnail, Sources: 1,2,3,
