Mental Health and Addictions

Mental health is a vital part of a person’s overall wellbeing. Mental health problems and disorders, including addictions, are widespread throughout all sections of society. One in five British Columbians, or approximately 882,000 people, will experience some form of mental health disorder this year.

Symptoms of mental illness may be mild, moderate, or severe, and may emerge at different times throughout a person’s life. However, these disorders are treatable and can often be minimized by early intervention.

The Province of British Columbia is committed to a comprehensive, integrated, evidence-based system of mental health and addictions services. These services focus on health promotion, prevention, treatment and recovery, and support individuals' and families' resiliency and self-care.