The mental health and substance use system in Greater Victoria presents multiple challenges such as a lack of services, long wait times and growing demand. There are opportunities for greater efficiency and effectiveness through a shared navigation system.

The purpose of this research was to explore three specific questions:

• What are the primary service gateways and what are their challenges? What do they need to be more successful?

• How are referrals submitted?

• Where are the biggest bottlenecks in the system?

In February 2021, the PSR Collaborative hosted a virtual conversation on improving system navigation, drawing 180 participants from various sectors including families, individuals with lived experience, government and professionals across the region.

This report encapsulates the dialogue, outlining key themes and next steps in the collaborative effort to co-create a shared MHSU navigation system.

A review of Greater Victoria’s mental health psychosocial rehabilitation and recovery-oriented services (PSR) was conducted by Dr. John Higenbottam and Dr. Regina Casey at the request of Island Health as recommended by the Clubhouse and Alternatives Working Group.

The purpose of the review was to identify strengths, gaps and opportunities to improve mental health services currently being provided in the area with a focus on PSR and recovery-oriented approaches.