BURSTAhead of the B.C. provincial election, new research commissioned by the Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division (CMHA BC) demonstrates strong public support for strengthening mental health services and investing in prevention before people reach a crisis point.
And CMHA Vernon says the research reflects what staff, volunteers, and community members see every day in the North Okanagan.
The survey of more than 2,500 British Columbians found that 88 per cent agree a stronger mental health system means people can access help in their communities before reaching crisis, while 82 per cent agree that waiting until someone is in crisis is too late and that investments in housing, mental health care, and community supports can prevent emergencies before they happen.
“This research reinforces what community organizations have been saying for years: people want a mental health system that is accessible, proactive, and focused on prevention,” said Julia Payson, executive director of CMHA Vernon and District. “When residents consistently identify mental health and substance use as one of the most significant challenges facing their communities, governments at all levels have a responsibility to invest in solutions that work. The time to act is before a crisis occurs, not after.”
The research found that mental health and substance use ranks among the top community concerns for British Columbians, with 35 per cent of respondents identifying it as one of the three biggest challenges facing their community. The issue intersects with concerns around cost of living, housing affordability, homelessness, and public safety.
When asked what would make the biggest difference in improving mental health and substance use outcomes in their communities, access to treatment and services emerged as the most common response, with more than half of respondents identifying some form of care or support as the solution.
At the local level, CMHA Vernon says it continues to see growing demand for community-based mental health programs. Services ranging from wellness and recovery programs to youth and family supports, housing services, outreach, and peer support play a critical role in helping people access care before they reach a crisis point.
The research also highlights that British Columbians expect governments at all levels to play a role in strengthening mental health systems. Nearly nine in 10 respondents (89 per cent) said it is important for municipal governments to take action on mental health and substance use, while provincial leadership remains essential in ensuring timely access to treatment, counselling, housing supports, and other mental health services.
“As voters consider the future of our province, mental health must remain a priority,” said Payson. “The public understands that mental health, housing, affordability, and community wellbeing are deeply connected. British Columbians are asking for accessible, affordable services that help people stay well and connected, rather than waiting until they reach a crisis point to receive support.”
CMHA Vernon and District is encouraging residents to ask local candidates how they plan to improve access to mental health care, address housing and homelessness, and invest in community-based services that strengthen wellbeing across the region.