The most recent issue of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), Ontario’s Network magazine looks at the distinct role of the community mental health sector and some of the changes over the past number of years.
Leading some of the changes are major research and evaluation initiatives which have provided an evidence-base for Ontario’s community mental health system, as illustrated by the article “Tracing the Journey.” The article “Looking Back” provides an historical reflection on mental health policy and subsequent reforms of service delivery and community supports over the years. A particular milestone in the evolution of the community mental health system was the development of the CMHA Framework for Support which shifted the paradigm on the possibility for personal recovery within the community context. The Framework model has remained relevant after 30 years.
The learning in the sector continues as illustrated by articles on employment for persons in recovery, the expanding role of public educators and the issues faced by rural and northern communities. The collaboration, and in some cases integration, with the addictions and primary care sectors are also highlighted.
See “Framing the Future: A Celebration of Community Mental Health,”Network, Spring 2011, available at www.ontario.cmha.ca/network.