Pathways Executive Director Liz Charyna reached out to the BC candidates regarding their position on mental health. Below is our letter to them and their responses can be found in the documents attached. We hope that this helps you in deciding which party to vote for this Saturday, October 19, 2024.
Pathways letter to the candidates
Dear Candidate,
Pathways Serious Mental Illness Society represents families and friends who have a loved one with a serious mental illness and provides free support and education to people living in crisis and distress. Our peer support model matches parents, spouses, siblings and friends with people who have similar experience to receive support and resources that lead to treatment for their loved one and peace of mind for themselves.
Mental health is certainly in the headlines and individuals with a serious mental illness need support in many areas.
In this time of campaign promises, please answer the following 3 questions:
- What does your party believe to be the most important needs of those living with a serious mental illness?
- What steps and action plans does your party believe are necessary to address these needs?
- Currently BC has good legislation for helping those with serious mental disorders, including involuntary care and treatment when appropriate. This ability for physicians to intervene and provide involuntary treatment is being challenged. Please advise where you stand on this and why.
Thank you for your attention to serious mental illness and to the families and people who care for someone with lived experience. Serious mental illness affects our whole community.
Wishing you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving.
Warm Regards,
Liz Charyna
Executive Director
Pathways Serious Mental Illness Society