Released on December 16, 2013
Mental Health and Addictions Action Plan Online Survey Open Until December 31
The Mental Health and Addictions Action Plan online public consultation tool has received more than 2,600 responses since its launch on October 21.
The online consultation results, as well as results from other consultations including focus groups, in-person interviews and other meetings, will help inform development of a Mental Health and Addictions Action Plan for Saskatchewan. It is estimated that one in five people experiences a mental health or addictions problem.
“The overwhelming response after only seven weeks shows that mental health is a leading issue for many Saskatchewan residents,” Health Minister Dustin Duncan said. “That’s why we are committed to making improvements to the mental health and addictions system. The significant response rate to the online consultation tool can be attributed to its privacy, accessibility, and high level of public awareness and interest.”
The online consultation tool is still open to anyone with stories, experiences and suggestions for improving mental health or addiction services in Saskatchewan. The confidential questionnaire will be available until December 31 and takes approximately 15 minutes to complete.
“We are delighted with the response rate to date,” Action Plan Commissioner Dr. Fern Stockdale Winder said. “We would like to encourage even more responses from family members of children and youth, rural residents and senior citizens so that these groups are well-represented.”
In addition to the online tool, the commissioner has met with more than 55 stakeholder groups representing corrections, social services, housing, health and others, in communities across Saskatchewan. The commissioner’s consultations will ensure the Action Plan’s recommendations reflect clients’ lived experiences and service provider knowledge to improve the system.
Individuals interested in participating can access the web-based consultation tool at www.health.gov.sk.ca/powerful-voice.
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For more information, contact:
Tyler McMurchy
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: tmcmurchy@health.gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-537-3594