Why a National Mental Health Strategy Is Critical to Preventing Future Tragedies

WINNIPEG, MANITOBA, Mar 05 (MARKET WIRE) --
The Schizophrenia Society of Canada (SCC) extends its sympathy to both
the McLean family and the Li family as they struggle to come to terms
with the tragic incident around the death of Timothy McLean.

The Schizophrenia Society of Canada remains concerned about the negative
or limited information that exists regarding individuals with
schizophrenia and psychosis. This has been evident in the recent case of
Vincent Li.

Since 1 in 5 Canadians will experience a mental illness in their
lifetime, and 1 in 100 people will be diagnosed with schizophrenia, it
raises the issue for reflection on the nature of mental illnesses
including what they are and what they are not in regards to symptoms,
treatment and risks of violence.

This is especially true as such an unfortunate event as the McLean/Li
tragedy surfaces the social prejudice and stigma that is still prevalent
in our society. This is one reason why many with mental health problems
and mental illness do not seek out help and treatment. Immigrants from
other cultures often struggle with pronounced feelings of stigma
regarding mental illness. Thus the SSC supports the Mental Health
Commission of Canada's proposed creation of a ten-year Anti-Stigma and
Anti-Discrimination Campaign.

According to Chris Summerville, the Chief Executive Officer of the
Schizophrenia Society of Canada, the likelihood of violence by people
with mental illness is exceptionally low. In fact, people living with
mental illness are more often the victims of violence. "Fortunately,
studies show that when people who were or would have been dangerous
receive psychiatric treatment they are no more dangerous than people
without a diagnosis. But they have to receive the treatment," says Dr.
John Gray, a board member of the British Columbia Schizophrenia Society.

Schizophrenia and psychosis are treatable! But early identification and
intervention in treating mental illness are crucial as treatment options
do work. Vince Li was beginning treatment at a mental health facility in
Ontario as an involuntary patient. But he left the hospital without
anyone apparently intervening. Therefore it raises the question about
whether the mental health care system responded appropriately in this
case. When he returned to Winnipeg, his family and friends knew something
was wrong.

Unfortunately, little effort was made to help him seek treatment due to
lack of awareness of the signs and symptoms of psychosis. If the warning
signs were there and he did not receive help, then the question is how to
educate family and friends, as well as the public about accessing mental
health services.

This tragic event reinforces the urgent need for a national mental health
strategy. Despite the significant health, economic and social costs of
mental illness, Canada is the only G8 nation without a national strategy
on mental illness. Summerville who is also a board member of the Mental
Health Commission of Canada, says, "In many areas in Canada, there is a
lack of psychiatric beds as well as lengthy wait times to access
appropriate mental health care." He adds, "If there were not a
comprehensive hospital or community services for people with cancer,
heart problems or other medical conditions, we as a society would be
outraged. Stigma and the lack of social and political will have resulted
in Canada's failed mental health system."

The Schizophrenia Society of Canada is urging the federal government to
adopt a national mental health strategy that is recovery-oriented and
encompasses mental health literacy, mental health promotion, early
intervention, adequate treatment as well as community supports and
services.

While we understand and empathize with Timothy's mother and the McLean
family and support their concern for public safety, we do not believe
that the proposed "Tim's Law", which would have individuals deemed Not
Criminally Responsible (NCR) incarcerated for life, is the solution. Both
Tim McLean and Mr. Li are victims of a complete psychotic episode, in
which Mr. Li had no insight and awareness of his actions.

About the Schizophrenia Society of Canada

The Schizophrenia Society of Canada, founded in 1979, is dedicated to
improving the quality of life for those affected by schizophrenia and
psychosis through education, support programs, public policy and
research. The Society works with 10 provincial societies in a federation
model to raise awareness and educate the public in order to reduce stigma
and discrimination; support families and individuals; advocate for
legislative change; and support research through the SSC Foundation and
other independent efforts.

Fast Facts on Mental Illness

- The economic costs of mental illness exceed $35 billion a year in terms
of lost industrial production alone.

- Thirty-seven per cent of Canadians experience a mental illness in the
course of their lifetime.

- The most vulnerable are those in their teens and early to mid-20s.

- Depression today is the fastest growing source of disability in the
Canadian labour force, representing 75 per cent of long-term disability
and about 40 per cent of short-term disability.

Warning Signs and Symptoms

Confused thinking
Prolonged depression (sadness or irritability)
Feelings of extreme highs and lows
Excessive fears, worries and anxieties
Social withdrawal
Dramatic changes in eating or sleeping habits
Strong feelings of anger
Delusions or hallucinations
Growing inability to cope with daily problems and activities
Suicidal thoughts
Substance abuse

(Source: Schizophrenia Society of Canada)

Contacts:
Schizophrenia Society of Canada
Chris Summerville, D.Min., CPRP
Chief Executive Officer
(204) 786-1616 or Cell: (204) 223-9158

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