The stress of the COVID-19 pandemic was unevenly distributed, with some groups suffering more. In response we need urgent investments in equitable access to mental health care.
Learn how
The BC Alliance for Monitoring Mental Health Equity (BC AMMHE) is a coalition of researchers based in British Columbia who are interested in promoting mental health equity. We aim to track emerging and evolving research studies from BC that provide data on mental health (including substance use), with particular attention to those who experience social and/or structural barriers to health or healthcare.
About us
The Effects of COVID-19 Restrictions on Community Connectedness
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted all of our lives, and in many cases has contributed to worsening mental health. Some felt increased anxiety, at the threat of becoming ill or losing a loved one to COVID-19. Others—especially those who live alone—became increasingly isolated. These effects were not felt evenly across the BC population. An equitable COVID-19 recovery will tailor mental health supports to reach 2S/LGBTQ+ and other equity-deserving groups.
Explore moreRecommendations
Invest in mental health care accessibility, specifically reducing barriers for equity-deserving groups
For many, accessing mental health care is very challenging. As such, reducing these access barriers and improving access to tailored services, specifically for equity-deserving populations is crucial.
Learn moreIntegrated responses to mental health and substance use disorders
High levels of concurrent mental health and substance use disorders may be exacerbated by COVID-19 pandemic. Integrated responses that address concurrent challenges are needed.
Learn moreDevelop evidence-based policy and practice guidelines for digital mental healthcare and make digital programs and services more accessible and equitable.
There is a need to develop and disseminate guidelines to support the implementation of digital mental health care and psychosocial support that takes into account the context of delivery. Tailored guidelines are needed to ensure implementation and delivery across settings.
Learn moreBetter mental health screening and referral pathways
We recommend improved screening for mental health challenges into primary care practice as well as pathways for people who screen positive to gain rapid access to initial follow-up consultation.
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Research
- Learn More
- Virtual care
Digital Interventions to Support Population Mental Health in Canada During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Rapid Review
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
The study aimed to determine “what digital interventions could be used to support the mental health of the Canadian general population during the COVID-19 pandemic?”
- Learn More
- COVID-19
BC COVID-19 SPEAK (Survey on Population Experience, Actions, and Knowledge) Survey
BC Centre for Disease Control
The survey asked BC residents about their experiences, knowledge and actions early in the COVID-19 pandemic, including risk perception and impacts of COVID-19 such as social, economic, physical health, mental wellness and community resiliency.
Members
Dr. Skye Barbic
University of British Columbia
E-mail
Dr. Pierre-julien Coulaud
British Columbia Centre on Substance Use
E-mail
Dr. Emily Jenkins
University of British Columbia
E-mail
Angel Kennedy
Simon Fraser University
E-mail
Dr. Erin Michalak
University of British Columbia
E-mail
Dr. Jill Murphy
University of British Columbia
E-mail
Dr. Chris G. Richardson
University of British Columbia
Website
Dr. Travis Salway
Simon Fraser University
E-mail
Dr. Hasina Samji
Simon Fraser University
Website
Sarah Watt
Simon Fraser University
E-mail
Julia Smith
Simon Fraser University
Website
How can I help?
Feedback?
Have some ideas? Want to let us know how to improve this resource? We would love to hear from you!
Submit your research
The BCAMMHE is always looking to include other relevant studies to our database.
Contact your MLA
Improving equitable access to mental health means we need to contact our MLAs and raise this issue.