Alberta family loses son to suicide while he waited for mental health care – Global News
According to the Calgary executive director of the Canadian Mental Health Association, the wait in Alberta’s public system is anywhere from six months to two years.
“Fifty-four per cent of Albertans last year weren’t able to get the help they need because they couldn’t afford it, because it’s not free and not universal. Someone needs to pay or wait it out,” Sara Jordan said. “We can do better.
“Universal health care applies from the neck down, and from there up it means we have access to emergency rooms and hospitals and medication, but that’s not enough,” Jordan said.
Our Peer Support program services can be accessed over the phone at 403-297-1402 or through email at peer@cmha.calgary.ab.ca. We have teamed up with other Calgary agencies to help Calgarians quickly and easily access various counselling and social supports. Visit www.communityconnectyyc.ca, where you can book online for our Suicide Bereavement and Family Support Counselling, and other supports. If you prefer to still book through us, please phone (403-297-1708), or email (counsellingintake@cmha.calgary.ab.ca).