The COVID-19 pandemic is having a significant impact on the day-to-day lives on the people of our community. The added stress and anxiety of the situation can make it even harder for those living with mental illness to receive help.
Brockville General Hospital’s (BGH) Mental Health program and Lanark, Leeds, and Grenville Addictions and Mental Health (LLGAMH) remain committed to providing the essential addictions and mental health support for our community.
“Our key message is that we’re here for you and we want to support you during this extraordinary time,” noted Eric Hanna, LLGAMH CEO. “And we are finding alternate ways to do that.”
LLGAMH clients and others who require counselling for addictions, mental health issues and COVID-19 stress are encouraged to call 613-342-2262. Counselling, case management and psychiatric visits are taking place by telephone. Staff are available for clients at group homes, co-op and residential treatment facilities. And our case managers continue to work with BGH, supporting the emergency room diversion and acute care programs.
“This time of increased stress can be triggering for people with mental illness,” said Dr Robert Malone, BGH Chief of Staff and Chief of Psychology. “The community and hospital mental health programs are key pillars of support for those with mental illness.”
Measures are currently in place at BGH’s hospital sites to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, including limiting visitors from entering the hospital. Mental Health staff and physicians are ramping up their use of virtual meetings in order to maintain support of those in need.
Members of BGH’s Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) team are continuing their outpatient services while following physical distancing mandates. Clinicians are holding teleconferences with clients when possible.
BGH’s mental health crisis telephone line continues to be available during this time. If you have concerns about a loved one’s mental status and you think they may need immediate police or medical assistance, please call 613-345-4600 or 1-866-281-2911. The phone line is available 24/7. You can also call the LLGAMH rapid access line at 613-342-2262.
In addition to these local services, the Ontario Ministry of Health is increasing its online and virtual mental health supports during COVID-19. The government has partnered with programs such as Kids Help Phone and Bounce Back to create the new virtual support. Watch for more details coming shortly or visit www.connectontario.ca.
Contact
Abby McIntyre
Marketing and Communications Specialist
Brockville General Hospital
613-345-5649 ext. 1504
613-341-1202
amcintyre@brockvillegeneralhospital.ca
Jane Adams
Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Addictions and Mental Health
613-729-4864
jane@brainstorm.nu
