As part of the work to develop the next interministerial action plan in mental health (PAISM), the Minister for Health and Social Services, Lionel Carmant, confirms that two days of public consultation will be held on January 19 and 20 to hear from different groups on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of the population.
The consultation, which will be by invitation only and will be organized in a non-partisan manner, will take place in virtual mode. Discussions will focus in particular on access to services; integration and complementarity of services (eg: education, employment, justice, public security) and stigmatization with regard to mental health.
“We know that isolation due to the pandemic has increased or exacerbated mental health problems such as distress, anxiety, and anguish among the population. This pandemic will have long term effects for some people. It is therefore necessary, within the framework of the development of the interdepartmental action plan in mental health, to hold these consultations in order to clearly identify the issues and find lasting solutions for Quebecers, ”comments Minister Carmant.
Street work
The experience of the two previous mental health action plans made it possible to set up a range of services in the community. The next PAISM will focus in particular on intersectoral proximity teams and street work.
Remember that this event is being held within the framework of a vast consultation process aimed at improving access to mental health services in Quebec. Two forums, one for youth and the other for adults, as well as online consultations have been held so far. Consultations with establishments in the health and social services network and with First Nations and Inuit are also planned for the coming months.
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