Mental health, like so much else in our society, has become infected with prejudice, power and money. (Originally published at rabble.ca.) The Senate report on mental health, “Out of the Shadows at Last”, bulges beyond 500 pages and packs in many recommendations for bulking up Canada's beleaguered public mental health care system with “options”
What killed 13-year-old Mercedes-Rae Clarke after she ingested an unknown drug she bought on the street? We won’t know until the coroner’s investigation concludes-if ever. But the day after her death in September, that didn’t stop our regional chief medical officer Dr. Richard Stanwick, Victoria police inspector Clarke Russell, and even coroner Lisa Lapointe from
When it comes to solving the problems in our mental health system, too many people are losing touch with reality. And I’m not referring to the patients.Consider the recommendations from the recent coroner’s inquest into the police shooting of Saanich’s Majencio Camaso. The jury suggested police should obtain more training in handling unstable people, and
(Originally published in Monday Magazine, June 10-16, 1999) * An irritated neighbour, worried sibling or angry landlord could set you up for a mental health check-up. After a visit from "the team", you could end up with fewer rights than a criminal. * * THEY don't want you to know that your neighbours, teachers and
(Originally published in Monday Magazine, June 10, 1999.) * An irritated neighbour, worried sibling or angry landlord could set you up for a mental health check-up. After a visit from "the team", you could end up with fewer rights than a criminal. * * THEY don't want you to know that your neighbours, teachers and