The use of peer support in the emergency department (ED) is an emerging practice. In a recent issue of EENet’s Promising Practices, Raymond Cheng profiles two scenarios: One is the inner city hospital with the dense and diverse populations it serves, and its use of a Community Support Worker; the second is the future establishment of peer navigators in the Central Local health Integration Network (LHIN) at two sites – one in the city, and another serving a broader suburban area. Each offers some lessons and implications for their respective use by racialized people with mental health issues..
This Promising Practice arose from the work of the Community of Interest for Racialized Populations and Mental Health and Addictions (COI). CMHA Ontario is a member of the COI steering committee.
To read the full promising practice, visit the EENet website. People from racialized populations are likely to experience more stress in an unfamiliar environment such as the ED, and it’s possibly more stressful if their first language is not English. For those who seek help for mental health issues, whether on their own or accompanied by family and friends, any additional support during such a hard time is likely welcome.
To read the full promising practice, visit the EENet website.