United Way of Perth-Huron, Social Research & Planning Council Logos
The United Way of Perth-Huron has released a report, detailing the region’s system of addressing issues around mental health and addiction.
The “Forward Together: An integrated approach to Mental Health and Addictions in Huron Perth” report is meant to inform community leaders about the achievements over the past eight years and collaborations underway to improve the system; identify outstanding challenges for Huron Perth residents; and review Ontario’s new Roadmap to Wellness: a plan to build Ontario’s mental health and addictions system.
United Way Executive Director Ryan Erb says addiction issues continue to be difficult for residents to overcome, but headway is being made.
“People don’t turn to addiction for fun. It is often as a coping mechanism for challenges in their life,” Erb says.
“There’s lots of ways to reduce harm on the path to wellness for anyone who’s struggling.”
Erb says the first option for anyone seeking help is to call 2-1-1.
“This is the local database of information that has every service available in our region, and you can get a kind, compassionate person on the phone that will direct you to the right place.”
If the call to 2-1-1 is urgent, Erb tells us the call will likely be forwarded to the area’s “crisis line,” which is operated locally by the Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance.