HomeMy WebLinkAboutLakeshore Advance, 2012-02-08, Page 16preventlon
omiAgency
When it comes to the desperate state of mental health
services in Sarnia-Lambton, the cry for help is getting
louder.
"This is a huge issue, and it's nice to see that people
'recognize that and that we're getting more support" said
Peter Smith, chair of.the local advocacy committee on
children's mental health.
"The events that took place last year really did galvanize
people" he added, referring to an alarming number of
recent teen suicides.
A followup to a mental health forum hosted by Lambton
College last fall is scheduled for Feb. 14, at which local
advocates, social service representatives, college officials
and parents are expected to develop a plan to move
forward on inidadves, said Smith.
"We're hoping there's similar moves across the province.
Unfortunately, what I've seen in the past in some areas,
there's no real push on the government, l think in some
case% they've Just gotten tired and have given up.
"Were not going to do that. A report stemming from the
initial forum was drafted and sent to the Minister of
Children and Youth Services, Laurel Bruton.
The report identified several key issues, including* lack
of capacity for schools to deal with mental health issues in
the classroom, and a limited access to services for rural
Lambton residents.
The report listed a number of recommendations,
inciu iinrsgg maintaining the Community Girt Home, which
is scheduled for closure in Marche and developing a suicide
prevention education program for parents, teachers and
youth.
Smith said the ministry is still reviewing the report,
Meanwhile, a call for support for a national suicide
prevention strategy from Sarnia's mayor was another
catalyst for community discussion this week.
"I've been overwhelmed with e-mails end comments,
and some very heart -wrenching personal stories," said
Mike Bradley, who is seeking support from city and county
council to endorse a bill tabled by Halifax MP Megan
Leslie, which calls for a national strategy on suicide
prevention.
Leslie's office followed up with Bradley with a proposal
Thursday.
"They want to find away to build on the momentum that
has been started here in Sarnia." said Bradley, noting the
MP hopes that, with Bradley's help, other Canadian mayors
will come on board. "So I think that could be a very
powerful initiative."
Local activist Georgette Parsons has been urging
residents to send letters to Nelms, including local MP
Bob Bailey, dernan action.
'We have to bombard them with e-mails expressing
our opinion and let them know that their silence is
1• she said.
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