MH&A Systems Navigator By Barry Hewitt MSW, RSW

Mental Health and Addictions Mental illness is a leading cause of disability in Canada 20% of Canadians will personally experience a mental illness in their lifetime. A complex interplay of genetic, biological, personality and environmental factors causes mental illnesses including addiction. Almost one half (49%) of those who feel they have suffered from depression or anxiety have never gone to see a doctor about this problem. Stigma or discrimination attached to mental illnesses presents a serious barrier, not only to diagnosis and treatment but also to acceptance in the community. 17% of Canadians aged 15 or older report having a mental health care need in the past year; one third of those individuals report that their needs were not fully met.3 The rate is even higher for children and youth.23

Current MH&A Stats for Canada Mental illness indirectly affects all Canadians at some time through a family member, friend or colleague. Mental illness affects people of all ages, educational and income levels, and cultures. Schizophrenia affects 1% of the Canadian population. Anxiety disorders affect 5% of the household population, causing mild to severe impairment. Suicide accounts for 24% of all deaths among 15-24 year olds and 16% among 25-44 year olds. The disease burden of mental illness and addiction in Ontario is 1.5 times higher than all cancers put together and more than 7 times that of all infectious diseases. This includes years lived with less than full function and years lost to early death.

Why do we need a Systems Navigator We recognize that the mental health and addiction system is complex and understanding how it works can be difficult for patients and their families. (everyone) Finding information on the different MH&A resources can be difficult Each health authority is slightly different Different regions have different community supports

Mental Health and Addictions System Navigator A Mental Health and Addiction System Navigator possesses knowledge of our mental health and addiction health care system as a whole. A critical role is seeing the bigger picture in health care. To better understand it, work within it and understand how to respond to changes as they occur. Mental Health and Addiction System Navigator must be able to think at both a local and at a system level. I have to be aware of the inter-connectivity of the various parts of the Mental Health and Addiction health care system.

My Role Have a vast understanding of mental health and addictions services within the health authorities and community organizations for the province and how to access them The System Navigator exists to assist workers, clients, patients, residents, families and community members with inquiries regarding the delivery of mental health and addiction within Newfoundland and Labrador. Helping to connect individuals to the right person in the right program. Help provide potential solutions to barriers to service

Partnership with Community Collaborative approach – learning from each other The importance of Community Stakeholders Point of contact- where do you start? Importance of knowing resources – creates more options for clients and families (goes both ways) Keeping everyone informed of changes to your community group

Important Numbers Mental Health Crises Line 1-888-737-4668 Newfoundland and Labrador Health line 811 CHANNAL 1-855-753-2560 www.bridgethegapp.ca System Navigator 1-877-999-7589 or 752-3916