Mental health and addictions shutdown could be learning opportunity: U of R prof
Services and programs across the Saskatchewan Health Authority had to be stopped or significantly slowed down because of COVID-19, either to follow the province’s health orders or as part of the authority’s pandemic response plan.
But it’s not just surgeries and tests; the slowdowns included many mental health and addictions programs.
Dr. Gabriela Novotna, associate professor in the faculty of social work at the University of Regina, said that could create negative outcomes for the people who rely on those services. Novotna studies substance use issues and treatment for addictions and mental health issues.
Novotna said when services for people with addictions are paused, it can have a very negative effect on them and their situation. She said there can be negative health outcomes, they can experience withdrawal, and they can start self-medicating.