The Province has released new guidance aimed at helping young people facing severe mental health and substance-use challenges get urgent care when they can’t seek it themselves.

Officials say the updated direction clarifies how the Mental Health Act can be used to admit people under 19 for involuntary treatment at the request of a parent or guardian.

“I have met parents whose children have died because they were unable to hold them in care and get them the treatment they need including medication that prevents brain injury and overdose,” said Premier David Eby.

“We have to do better. This new guidance will help protect some of our most vulnerable and our precious from permanent brain injury or death, while opening the door to rebuilding their lives.” 

The goal is to ensure doctors understand when they can step in to provide life-saving care for youth who may be at risk of brain injury, overdose or death.

The guidance was developed by Dr. Daniel Vigo, B.C.’s chief scientific adviser for psychiatry, toxic drugs and concurrent disorders.

He says children and youth with severe conditions sometimes need immediate intervention, and the Mental Health Act can be a critical tool when used as a last resort.

The document builds on earlier guidance released this year for adults, offering details specific to younger patients.

The Province has also fully implemented changes requiring that anyone detained under the Mental Health Act - including those under 19 - be offered free, confidential assistance from an independent rights adviser.

That is meant to ensure young people understand what’s happening and can access their legal rights if they want to challenge their admission.

The service also applies to children under 16 admitted at the request of a parent or guardian.

More than 2,000 mental-health beds across B.C. can provide involuntary care when needed, and additional beds are being added in several communities.

Work is underway on new facilities in Surrey and Prince George that will accommodate both voluntary and involuntary mental-health treatment.

The Province says these changes are part of ongoing efforts to build a more seamless system of mental-health and substance-use care, which includes thousands of treatment and recovery beds, expanded access to opioid treatment, new Foundry youth centres and additional supportive housing.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.