The New Brunswick government wants to put more focus on addictions and mental health, in its New Brunswick Family Plan.
Premier Brian Gallant says they’ve slightly adjusted their focus because of the comments they’ve received. Originally, their focus was just on mental health, but addictions is now a priority as well, “It became very clear, from stakeholders across the province that they want the supports for addictions services to be just as important and at the same level. There are benefits that go beyond just the individual benefits that will be seen. We recognize that, we understand that, and we know that when we make investments to help those suffering from mental health challenges and addictions, we’re not only strengthening their quality of life, we are strengthening the economy and the workforce in our province.”
Premier Brian Gallant–#NB Family Plan support of addictions and mental health challenges pic.twitter.com/z27A73lT7b
— 91.9The Bend News (@919TheBendNews) May 1, 2017
Gallant also revealed additional investments of $230 million for mental health and home care over the next ten years, thanks to a bilateral agreement with the federal government.
Meantime, The Operations Manager for the New Brunswick Branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association Kristen Barnes says there is definitely a need for increased investment and services, “For our office in Moncton, a large percentage of individuals are coming forward looking for support for things like addictions, trauma, grief and loss recovery, depression and anxiety.”
She adds, New Brunswick has always been lower in amounts that have been put into mental health support, “I’m excited to see how community is going to be involved in the support for mental health and through this plan. I think it is important in including government, community, stakeholders and professionals as well as individuals that are affected.”
Kristen Barnes, Operations Manager #CMHA #NB pic.twitter.com/vKFuDSJkQu
— 91.9The Bend News (@919TheBendNews) May 1, 2017
