The number of people accessing the Cochrane Addiction and Mental Health Clinic is consistently increasing, according to the clinic.
“We’ve had year over year increases for the last five years,” said Spencer Schneider, manager of the Cochrane and Canmore/Banff programs.
According to Alberta Health Services, from April 2013 to March 2016 the clinic has seen an increase of about 160 new clients. Similarly, the number of people accessing mental health clinics across the province has shown a steady increase over the past five years.
Schneider said he believes this increase is due to a combination of factors.
“I think the economy definitely has something to do with it, especially this past year. But I also think Cochrane has just grown so much, so I think that factors in as well,” Schneider said.
According to Schneider, mental health has been a major talking point in the media for the past few years, which he said has helped reduce stigma around mental illness.
“As mental health reaches a higher profile, there’s a decrease in stigma. I think people are more willing to come forward to support their mental health.…,” he said.
“I think mental health was really punctuated by the flood of 2013. When people realized that things can happen that impact everybody’s mental health. It was an event that brought a lot of attention to mental health.”
Schneider said the clinic in Cochrane can provide assessments, treatments, information and referrals to specialized programs. The clinic will also provide follow-up in for mental health issues and addiction treatment.
“We can provide treatment to families or individuals. Some of the themes we touch on are abuse and violence, addiction, stress, aging, relationships, anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts. We also see folks with persistent or severe mental illness,” Schneider said.
According to Schneider, there isn’t one demographic that accesses the clinic more than another.
“With Cochrane, I think it’s the whole gamut. We have from children and families right through to seniors accessing our programs,” he said.
“Over the next few months, we will be reviewing our services due to the increased demand. If any additions or changes in our services are made we will definitely inform our community stakeholders.”
Residents can access the clinic through self-referral by calling 403-851-6100 to book an appointment. The clinic also employs a walk-in program to ensure residents can be seen through a first-come first-serve basis.
