Mental health conditions
Information about Providence Health Care's services and resources for people living with mental health conditions.
If you need help, support is here for you. Remember, you are not alone. Emergency services are available to anyone experiencing a mental health crisis
Overview
Mental health conditions affect the way someone thinks, behaves and feels.
According to the World Health Organization, one in every eight people in the world has a mental health disorder. Anxiety and depression are the most common.
At Providence Health Care’s Mental Health Program, we take a patient-centered path for mental health. We see the patient before we see the illness.
We believe that building relationships with our patients starts from the first encounter. Rather than focus on a medical diagnosis, we change the labels to “father”, “executive”, “volunteer” or “musician” — whatever is important to the life of each patient. We listen with open minds and hearts to help our patients regain stability and return to the things they enjoy.
Our team is diverse and includes over 200 staff and physicians who are dedicated to providing excellent care for our patients and families.
Common mental health conditions
Treatment & management
Our Mental Health Program provides a range of coordinated services for patients with severe mental health conditions — including those with addictions.
These include:
- Emergency services
- Inpatient services at St. Paul’s Hospital
- Outpatient services
- Specialized diagnostic and treatment services
- Provincial services
The nature of mental illness means that we often see the same patient over long periods of time. While “cures” are not always part of our reality, we strive to achieve each patient’s goals — perhaps a return to a joyful experience, a renewed family relationship and improved day-to-day stability.
Locations and services that treat mental health
Emergency and inpatient care
Clinics
Additionally, two of our long-term care homes, St. Vincent's: Langara and Youville, have specialized mental health units.
Support services
Providence Health Care offers a variety of services to support those we care for. The following services may be of use or benefit to you and your families.
Support for Indigenous Peoples
The Indigenous Wellness Liaison Team is here to support your health journey. Team members offer cultural support and healthcare advocacy. Learn more below or call them at 604-682-2344,62937 or email IWL@providencehealth.bc.ca.
Education & resources
Patient education
Useful resources
Canadian Mental Health Association
Clinical trials & research
Advances in treatments are all thanks to medical research. While participating in research is a decision you should make for yourself in consultation with your care team, there is much activity in this area so please ask us about our research programs if you’re interested.
By taking part in research, you can help us all learn more about advancing health outcomes and find better ways to help people live and thrive. While you cannot assume benefit to yourself, your participation can make a difference in improving care for future patients.
The following clinical trials are currently enrolling volunteers. Please ask your care team for more information or contact the research team listed on each study or trial. For other information about research at Providence Health Care, please visit Providence Research.