Listen to this article
Estimated 1 minute
The audio version of this article is generated by AI-based technology. Mispronunciations can occur. We are working with our partners to continually review and improve the results.
Quebec psychiatrists are calling on the province’s next government to appoint a dedicated minister of mental health.
The president of the province’s psychiatrists’ association says a minister of mental health would co-ordinate action across different levels of government and help ensure the issue remains a priority beyond a single election cycle.
During a press conference at Montreal homeless resource Mission Old Brewery, Claire Gamache proposed six measures that she said are needed to help prevent homelessness and suicide.
In addition to the dedicated cabinet position, she is calling for expanding alternatives to hospitalization, better support for health-care workers and improved access to mental health care through telemedicine.
Gamache says mental health needs continue to grow across the province, with more people seeking help and struggling to access care.
WATCH | Mental health minister needed, psychiatrists say:
Quebec psychiatrists push for mental health minister
With Quebec’s provincial election approaching, the province’s psychiatrists are urging the next government to make mental health a priority. They’re calling for long-term solutions, including appointing a dedicated minister responsible for mental health.
She notes hospitalizations for suicidal ideation among girls between 10 and 14 years old have tripled between 2010 and 2023.
Gamache wants to see mental health become a priority issue for candidates running in the October provincial election.