The provincial government is changing the Mental Health Act to improve care and safety for youth experiencing substance abuse by providing short-term involuntary emergency stabilization care following an overdose.
Based on the expert advice of the BC Children’s Hospital and other renowned child and youth advocates, the changes will enable hospitals to keep youth safe immediately following an overdose.
Judy Darcy, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions says, “this is a much needed tool to help youth with severe substance use challenges and their families. Experts are telling us this emergency measure is vital to ensure the immediate safety of young people in crisis.”
Youth following a life-threatening overdose can be admitted for stabilization care for up to 48 hours or until their decision-making capacity is restored, for a maximum of seven days. Following this period of stabilization youth will then be connected to supports and services within their community.
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