A research project called Access Open Minds New Brunswick is trying to help youth with mental health issues get the right care, at the right time and in the right place.
The key principles of the project are early detection of problems, early access to services, finding appropriate care, transitional care beyond age 18 and allowing youth to have a voice in the care they receive.
Primary investigator Dr. Jimmy Bourque of the Universite de Moncton says the youth they are treating will typically have some kind of psychological or emotional distress.
“They don’t necessarily need medication or to visit the psychiatrist but they do need some support. The most common (issues) are around depression, stress, anxiety,” he notes.
Currently, Access Open Minds has three research sites in New Brunswick – at Elsibogtog First Nation, in Caraquet and in Saint John.
With funding from Medavie and other partners, there are plans to expand to more communities.
