Better mental health screening and referral pathways
"During COVID-19 quarantine, follow-up phone calls or visits from public health professionals should include appropriate mental health checks." (Daly et al., 2021)
Given the rise in population mental health challenges, which are expected to persist beyond the conclusion of the pandemic, 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. With significant government investment into virtual mental health supports, we recommend enhanced referral pathways to these resources, including through primary care and community points of contact. Primary care should receive continuing education to support referral pathways. Case management should be utilized to track virtual mental health support users and feedback to care providers (if different). We also recommend ongoing monitoring and evaluation to assess impacts.
Supporting research
Assessing the Impacts of COVID-19 on Mental Health National Monitoring Survey
University of British Columbia
COVID-192S/LGBTQ+Youth