Home / Health / P.E.I. MLAs Demand Better Family Support at New Mental Health Campus
P.E.I. MLAs Demand Better Family Support at New Mental Health Campus
30 Jan
Summary
- Opposition MLAs questioned officials on improving access to care at the new campus.
- A Liberal MLA shared a personal story of her husband's suicide and lack of support.
- The new mental health campus is slated for completion by 2028, with a cost over $271 million.
Opposition Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) on Prince Edward Island recently questioned government officials about improving access to mental health care through the province's new campus. During a standing committee meeting, Liberal MLA Carolyn Simpson shared a poignant personal account of her husband's suicide approximately five years ago, emphasizing the systemic gaps she experienced.
Simpson articulated that despite her efforts, the system failed to adequately support her husband. She stressed that while the severity of his illness was recognized, improved support for family members advocating for loved ones in crisis is crucial as the new campus is developed. Health P.E.I. is actively collaborating with families to enhance support for individuals, particularly children, facing mental health challenges.
Rebecca Jesseman, executive director of mental health and addictions, expressed confidence in current capabilities, stating that more options are available now. She highlighted ongoing work with families in child and youth programs to increase involvement and access. Green MLA Karla Bernard, however, argued that existing student well-being teams are insufficient, advocating for full-time mental health professionals in schools for real-time support.
