Behind The Y

BIPOC Voices Navigating Through Canada's Mental Health System


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The mental health system in Canada presents barriers to those who identify as Black, Indigenous, or people of colour. The experiences of these communities aren't reflected in this system, which creates challenges in accessing available and appropriate supports. Hosts Brandon and Sufiat explore this topic with insights from Alisha Sharma, member of The New Mentality's Youth Action Committee. The New Mentality is a not-for-profit network that amplifies the voices of youth to advocate for creating change within the mental health system. They recently published a report, Adjusting The Spotlight, which shines a light on the challenges BIPOC youth face in the mental health system. Brandon, Sufiat, and special guest Alisha identify the system barriers and gaps and provide examples of ways youth can get engaged in dismantling these barriers and bridging these gaps.


Mental health resources:
The New Mentality Adjusting the Spotlight Report: https://www.thenewmentality.ca/adjusting-the-spotlight/
Across Boundaries: Provides mental health and addiction services for racialized communities.
Email: http://www.acrossboundaries.ca/
Telephone: 416-787-3007, ext. 222
Black Creek Community Health Centre: Non-profit community-based organization providing health care services and programs geared to vulnerable population living in Toronto’s North West communities.
Email: https://www.bcchc.com/
Telephone:
416-249-8000
416-246-2388
East Metro Youth Services works to identify and develop solutions to important issues affecting the child and youth mental health sector.
Email: http://emys.on.ca/
Telephone: 416-438-3697
Toronto For All: Anti-Black Racism & Mental Health Resources: https://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/96a4-t4a-abr-bmh-resources.pdf

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Behind The YBy YMCA Youth Advisory Committee