This week, the Special Joint Committee on Medical Assistance in Dying tabled its report, recommending an indefinite exclusion of mental illness as the sole basis of a request for medical assistance in dying (MAID). The Canadian Psychiatric Association (CPA), the professional body representing Canada’s psychiatrists and psychiatrists-in-training, affirms the equal treatment of all Canadians, and … Read more
People with a psychiatric illness should not be discriminated against solely on the basis of their disability, and should have available the same options regarding medical assistance in dying (MAiD) as all Canadians, said the Canadian Psychiatric Association. “The CPA supports equality and dignity for persons with psychiatric disabilities,” says CPA president, Dr. Georgina Zahirney. “In situations where mental … Read more
The Canadian Psychiatric Association welcomed the Sept. 23 commitment by the Liberal Party of Canada to increase federal investments in health care, particularly its promise to set national standards for access to mental health services. “It is vital to track progress on wait times, as well as key clinical and outcome indicators to improve overall health system … Read more
The Canadian Psychiatric Association wants to remind Canadian consumers to consider the mental health implications of recreational cannabis use on youth and young adults. “There is a strong evidence-base showing that early and regular cannabis use can affect cognition, such as memory, attention, intelligence and the ability to process thoughts and experiences,” said CPA president, Dr. … Read more
The Canadian Psychiatric Association has partnered with the Canadian Armed Forces in their release of the CAF Clinician Handbook on Suicide Prevention, which will serve as a resource for primary care and mental health clinicians to use when assessing, screening and managing CAF patients at risk for suicide. Authors Juveria Zaheer (MD, MSc), Rahel Eynan (PhD), Paul … Read more
In the aftermath of the recent shooting in Toronto that left three people dead, including the gunman Faisal Hussain, the Canadian Psychiatric Association is concerned that publicity surrounding this event may reinforce the unwarranted public perception of a link between violence and mental illness. “There is not a higher incidence of violent behaviour among those diagnosed … Read more
The Canadian Psychiatric Association released an updated policy paper, Media Guidelines for Reporting on Suicide, presenting itself as a collaborative resource to news outlets to assist with the safe and humane reporting of suicide events. “The paper suggests a framework for approaching suicide-related coverage,” says Dr. Nachiketa Sinha, CPA president. “It also outlines potentially harmful and helpful aspects … Read more
The Canadian Psychiatric Association is pleased to see the federal, provincial and territorial governments agree on a Common Statement of Principles on Shared Health Priorities. The CPA views the common statement as a roadmap that will shape the organization, delivery, management and performance of the mental health system. The CPA appreciates the leadership role that Health Minister … Read more
The Canadian Psychiatric Association is very pleased to see the federal government confirm its investments of $5 billion over the next 10 years dedicated to mental health initiatives across the country. “We applaud the federal government for its leadership in recognizing the importance of investing in mental health,” said Dr. Renuka Prasad, CPA President. “This announcement … Read more
The Canadian Psychiatric Association is very disappointed that the federal, and provincial and territorial governments could not find common ground on a multi-year health accord. “We hope that yesterday’s outcome is a temporary setback that will lead to a sustainable agreement that both levels of government can support in the near future,” said Dr. Renuka Prasad, … Read more
