We are IH is a recognition campaign to spotlight Interior Health employees and medical staff – through pictures and stories. Name: Rachel Thibault Job Title: Admin - Primary Care Supervisor, Manager Support for Mental Health and Substance Use (MHSU) Years of Service: 18 Worksite: Community Health & Services Centre Community: Kelowna Ancestral Territory: “Syilx” (Saay-ilks) /…
In the wake of a deadly rise in drug toxicity and overdoses, the care team at Vernon’s Downtown Mental Health and Substance Use Centre has been quietly saving lives.An invaluable support for more than 900 Vernon residents, the centre helps with *harm reduction, health services and social supports. Since opening on May 12, 2020, more…
COVID-19 has impacted each of us in many ways. One of the areas that we are monitoring closely is mental health. Mental health affects all of us. As we mark the 70th annual Mental Health Awareness Week I’d like to take this opportunity to recognize the toll that the ongoing pandemic is having on people’s…
We are honoured to share this submission for Mental Health Awareness Week from Kamloops-based nurse Shanoa Enns. On the surface Shanoa had everything - an exciting new career in nursing, a new partner, tons of friends and a loving family. But as her mental health declined, she found herself in a dark place. It was…
In homes, schools, sports arenas and workplaces across our region, someone is missing. Five years ago the increasing number of opioid overdoses prompted the Province to declare a public health emergency. Since then across Interior Health, more than 1,117* family members, friends, coworkers, teammates, neighbours and friends have been lost to overdose. Much has been…
We are IH is a recognition campaign to spotlight Interior Health employees and medical staff – through pictures and stories. Name: Rikki Barden Worksite: Supervised Consumption Site, Kamloops Years of Service: 3.5 Job Title: Social Worker "You don't know what you don't know, is a quote I find myself saying a lot. I have no…
The holiday season is upon us and in many ways it feels the same as ever: Long dark nights are made brighter with festive light displays; classic carols are in rotation on the radio; and young children are eagerly making wish lists and doing their best to ensure they stay on the ‘nice’ list. But…
When people feel comfortable in a space, they are more likely to visit. With this in mind, the Aboriginal Mental Wellness team has been looking at ways to make spaces that provide mental health and substance use services more welcoming and culturally safe. Conversations with Aboriginal partners, clients, families, and care providers have shown us…
During a pandemic, people can experience a wide range of mental health impacts. If you are concerned about your mental wellness you can reach out for advice and support from your primary care provider, local counselling service, or your employer's Employee and Family Assistance Program if available. Or visit this infographic for tips on managing…