Quebec psychiatrists call for dedicated mental health minister

Quebec psychiatrists are demanding the appointment of a dedicated mental health minister by the province's next government. The association's president, Claire Gamache, stated that such a position would ensure coordinated action across different government levels and keep mental health a priority beyond election cycles.

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A minister of mental health would coordinate action across different levels of government and help ensure the issue remains a priority beyond a single election cycle.

During a press conference at Montreal's Mission Old Brewery, Gamache outlined six measures to prevent homelessness and suicide. Beyond the dedicated minister, she called for more alternatives to hospitalization, enhanced support for healthcare workers, and better access to mental health care via telemedicine.

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Mental health needs continue to grow across the province, with more people seeking help and struggling to access care.

Gamache highlighted the growing mental health needs in Quebec, with increasing numbers of people seeking help but facing access challenges. She noted a concerning tripling of hospitalizations for suicidal ideation among girls aged 10 to 14 between 2010 and 2023. The association wants mental health to be a key issue for candidates in the upcoming October provincial election.

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Hospitalizations for suicidal ideation among girls between 10 and 14 years old have tripled between 2010 and 2023.