Toronto, ON – October 7, 2024 – The Ontario government is taking significant steps to improve mental health care for young people by investing $19 million to expand the Early Psychosis Intervention (EPI) program. This initiative will enhance access to specialized services for individuals aged 14 to 35 experiencing early signs of psychosis.
“Our government is taking action to improve access to mental health support services that better reflect the needs of people and their families who are experiencing mental health challenges,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “By expanding the Early Psychosis Intervention program, we are ensuring those experiencing some of their first mental health challenges can connect to the care they need earlier on their journey to wellness.”
Early Intervention is Key
The EPI program focuses on early diagnosis and treatment of psychosis, a mental health condition that can cause individuals to have difficulty distinguishing between reality and perception. Early intervention is crucial in helping young people manage their symptoms and achieve their recovery goals.
The program provides personalized support and services tailored to the individual’s needs, including therapy, medication management, and assistance with returning to school or work.
“Supporting people living with mental illness is a priority for our government and we are working every day to ensure people across Ontario have access to the services and resources they need to manage their mental health and live fulfilling lives,” said Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “By investing in community supports like Early Psychosis Intervention, we are making sure Ontarians have the resources they need that make a difference in their lives.”
Partnership with CAMH
The Ontario government is partnering with the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) to expand the EPI program. CAMH’s expertise in mental health care will ensure that individuals receive evidence-based, standardized care.
“We know that 75 per cent of serious mental illness starts before age 25,” said Sarah Downey, President and CEO of CAMH. “With this understanding, we have an opportunity to engage sooner to change, and even possibly reverse the course of mental illness. We are grateful to the Ontario government for investing in the provincial Early Psychosis Intervention Program, which will help youth and their families get evidence-based, standardized and comprehensive care so they can attain their recovery goals.”
Building a Stronger Mental Health System
This investment builds on the government’s ongoing commitment to improving mental health and addictions care in Ontario. Through initiatives like the Roadmap to Wellness and the creation of Youth Wellness Hubs, the province is working to create a more comprehensive and accessible mental health system for all Ontarians.
