A new nursing program at Champlain Community Care Access Centre (CCAC) is helping youth with mental health and addictions issues to stay in school. It is estimated that 70% of mental health problems and illnesses begin during childhood or adolescence.
The program’s Mental Health and Addictions Nurses work with local school boards to connect with students early—as issues start to develop—to link them to resources in their school or community. This partnership with school boards includes the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario and the Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario.
With students now going back to school, the Mental Health and Addictions Nurses are ready to help them and their families by:
- · Meeting with students one-on-one in school or at home
- · Medication monitoring and support
- · Providing mental health and addictions education to students, families and school staff
- · Connecting with family doctors and schools
These services complement the often overburdened programs currently provided by schools and community-based mental health and addictions organizations.
Mental Health and Addictions Nursing is available to children and youth that may have mild to complex mental health and/or substance abuse issues. As well, this program supports students who are transitioning back to school from the hospital or other care setting.
Access to this program is available by referral, through local school boards, and anyone can make a referral to the CCAC.
To find out more about Mental Health and Addictions Nursing, contact 310-2222, or 1-800-538-0520, or visit: www.champlainccac.ca
For additional information on community services and educational resources, please go to: www.champlainhealthline.ca.
