A review of existing mental health community services in the St. John's region: gaps and recommendations

Beattie, Scott (2015) A review of existing mental health community services in the St. John's region: gaps and recommendations. Practicum Report. Memorial University of Newfoundland. (Unpublished)

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Abstract

Since the mid twentieth century, the care and treatment of people with mental illness has moved from primarily institutional settings to the community. Despite great efforts to develop/implement community services to support mental health consumers in the St. John’s area, there still remains gaps in service. The Recovery Model was used as the theoretical framework to complete an assessment of existing challenges in the provision of mental health care in the community. This assessment included a comprehensive literature review, consultations with stakeholders and a environmental scan of existing services in the St. John’s area. From these processes, there were identified needs for services specific to marginalized groups including those with forensic histories and concurrent disorders. Generalized case management services, home support and peer support were identified as needing expansion. Lack of inter-program collaboration and difficulty with system navigation were also identified as barriers. Recommendations include, 1) provider education in working with specific populations and those groups who are difficult to engage, 2) improving collaboration, eliminating silos and building a service continuum amongst existing programs, 3) increased access to non-traditional services such as home and peer support. Limitations of this project include the lack of consultations with consumers. A consumer voice is essential in a recovery approach to health provision. Both adolescent and geriatric services must also be included in a comprehensive assessment. Advanced nursing competencies that were utilized during this process include clinical practice, research, leadership, consultation and collaboration.

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