Media
Thunder Bay Chronicle-Journal
April 7, 2001
Dare to care about this
World Health Day is celebrated today with the theme "Mental Health: Stop Exclusion - Dare to Care." This theme incorporates two key messages: (1) the need to ensure that people are able to get the treatment that best meets their needs and supports their wellness and recovery, and (2) the pervasive effects of social exclusion resulting from stigma and discrimination and the barriers that keep people from seeking treatment.
The Psychiatric Patient Advocate Office (PPAO), established in 1983, is an arm's length organization of the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care to provide advocacy and rights Advice services in the current and former provincial psychiatric hospitals. Mental health reform is progressing and now is the time for people to get involved in shaping the vision and the new system so that it best meets the needs to all stakeholders.
A reformed mental health system in Ontario must include a greater voice for consumer-survivors, advocacy and rights protection services for all individuals with mental illness regardless of where they receive their care and treatment, the availability of affordable, safe and accessible housing, employment and educational opportunities, the reduction of stigma and discrimination and community-based services that will support all individuals with mental illness in their quest for full participation in society.
A reformed mental health system must respect the dignity and worth of all individuals with mental illness, encourage the individual to be an equal partner in the treatment process and be involved in all decisions that affect their care, life and treatment. Anything less will mean that mental health reform has failed.
During World Health Day the PPAO urges everyone to pause and reflect on their attitudes and misconceptions about mental illness and take part in creating an inclusive society that is accepting and supportive of people with mental illness.
PAULINE BODNAR
Patient Advocate
Psychiatric Patient Advocate Office
Thunder Bay
