While we may all be in the same ocean, we are not in the same boat. Some have ships, others canoes, and some of us may just be swimming.
The child and youth mental health field is difficult to navigate. Parents and caregivers often feel like detectives searching for someone and some place that will provide much-needed information and support for their child.
Being a detective in mental health as a parent means actively navigating a mental health journey that is challenging, with unclear information and a lot of bureaucracy, waitlists, and questions.
The Family Navigation Project
The Family Navigation Project (FNP) at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre serves youth and families in the Greater Toronto Area (Durham, Halton, Peel, Toronto, York). FNP is a non-profit, philanthropically-funded program that provides help to youth, 11 to 29 years old experiencing mental health and/or addiction issues, and their families.
The team of experts at FNP helps young people and/or their families navigate the system more easily, to find and gain access to resources, such as service providers and treatment centres.
FNP is a phone and email service that provides youth and their families with support and navigation of the mental health and addictions (MHA) service system.
For more information: https://sunnybrook.ca/content/?page=family-navigation-project-what-we-do
Integrated Youth Services (IYS): What They Are and How to Find Them
Understanding Integrated Youth Services
If you are a youth or the parent of a youth who has experienced mental health or substance use concerns, you may have wished that all the services you needed were available in one place.
Integrated Youth Services (IYS) aims to address this need by providing coordinated support in centralized locations.
What is IYS?
IYS is a service model that brings together youth mental health, physical health, substance use, and social supports in virtual or in-person "hubs." These services are designed for youth ages 12 to 25, with the goal of providing easier access to supports without lengthy referral processes or wait times.
Services Available Through IYS
While services may vary by location, common offerings at IYS hubs include:
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Academic and employment supports
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Peer and family support from individuals with lived experience
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Connections to housing and social services
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Sexual healthcare
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Service navigation assistance
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Mental health and substance use services
Current Status of IYS in Canada
The Canadian Government has recently invested in expanding IYS networks.
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) is developing an Integrated Youth Services Network of Networks Initiative to evaluate the impact of IYS. This project is currently engaging with youth, families, and experts to ensure effective delivery.
How to Access IYS
Across Canada
To find information on IYS in your region, visit iys-sij.ca/providers. Be aware that some provinces are still building their IYS networks, so services may not be available in all areas yet.
In Ontario
If you're in Ontario, you can find Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario (YWHO) locations at youthhubs.ca/ywho-sites. These hubs are established in several high-traffic regions across the province.
Resources
For more information about Integrated Youth Services, here are the key resources:
YMHC shares this information as part of our commitment to helping youth and families navigate available mental health resources in Canada.
Author: Meghan Henderson