Feds fund research into mental health of homeless

by Jadranka Bacic

Research into homelessness and mental illness is getting a big boost from the federal government—a $110 million promise to the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) to fund research projects to help homeless Canadians living with a psychiatric illness.

“There is very little known about the most effective kind of treatment for this group," says MHCC chair Michael Kirby. “They require a complex basket of services including supportive housing, access to primary health care and a wide range of other supports."

The Canadian Psychiatric Association (CPA) joined their national mental health partners in welcoming the federal budget announcement.

“This initial investment is a gesture of confidence in the new Mental Health Commission of Canada and its capacity to help transform mental health care where it matters most—on the front line," says CPA president Dr. Patrick J. White. “It is especially encouraging that this first new investment targets the homeless. More than half the homeless face serious mental illness and addictions challenges."

Mr. Kirby says the research projects will look at which methods provide the best service and are the most cost effective.

Vancouver, Winnipeg, Toronto, Montreal and Moncton have been selected as sites for five demonstration research projects.

Each project will focus on a distinct group of people living with mental illness who are homeless such as those who also have a substance abuse problem, Aboriginal Canadians, and non-English speaking new immigrants.

Dr. White is encouraged by this approach. “Unlike many past efforts that failed to test what works before applying a policy prescription to a complex mental health care issue, this approach recognizes the need to engage all stakeholders and test potential solutions first," he explains.

“The projects will develop a body of evidence which will enable Canada to lead the world in providing services to people living with mental illness who are homeless," says Mr. Kirby.

© Copyright 2008. Canadian Psychiatry Aujourd’hui. All rights reserved.

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