Child and Youth Mental Health and Substance Abuse Collaborative (CYMHSU)

It is estimated that 12.6% (84,000) of children and youth aged 4-17 in BC are experiencing mental health disorders at any given time. Up to 69% (58,000) of these children and youth are not receiving the level of specialized service that they require. There is a gap in services for youth aged 18-24.

Doctors of BC, the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Child and Family Development (MCFD) identified a CYMHSU system review as a priority and developed a strategic plan. Together these groups created a charter that outlined collaborative goals, objectives, and activities.

White Rock-South Surrey established a CYMHSU Local Action Team (LAT) in April 2015 with funding from Doctors of BC. The LAT is now funded by the Surrey Youth Assist Fund for one year.

The LAT is made up of youth, parents, GPs, psychiatrists, paediatricians, school principals, counsellors and the MCFD, Ongoing work of the LAT includes:

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) - Providing public education on the health effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Currently, ACEs screening is being used by a local family practice clinic and the Peace Arch Maternity Clinic.

Expanded Focus on Adult Mental Health – Educating the community on Adult Mental Health resources in the community.

The Triage Consulting Team offering consultations to school representatives to develop action plans for 28 at-risk students. The team consists of a child psychiatrist, family physician, social worker, CYMH clinician, district resource counsellor and triage team coordinator.
- Triage Consulting Team Overview
- Triage Consulting Team Storyboard

Vine Youth Clinic – providing youth-centered activities in the community and schools and referrals to programs for youth.

Resources:

Child and Youth Mental Health and Substance Abuse Collaborative (CYMHSU)

White Rock South Surrey M

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