Photo captiom: (left to right) Brooke Cruickshank, Registered Practical Nurse and Michelle Millman, Peer Support Worker, speak to each other in front of the in-memory wall at the Wellness & Recovery Centre.
With a vision to transform mental health and addictions care in its local communities, the Wellness and Recovery Centre led by Brightshores Health System continues to make a meaningful impact one year after opening its doors on June 18, 2024.
The centre provides stable housing while individuals with complex needs receive treatment and begin the recovery journey – with wraparound programs and services provided under one roof, in a repurposed former school in Owen Sound. A multidisciplinary team provides a variety of short- and longer-term programming, including crisis support, addictions treatment, daily drop-in clinics for clients seeking assistance, and much more.
“We have seen the benefits of creating an environment that meets clients where they are and grows alongside their needs," said Amy Bowins, Manager, Wellness and Recovery Centre. “The programming addresses mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health, and underscores the importance of compassionate and integrated mental health and addictions care."
Over the past year, there have been more than 33,000 outpatient visits to access service. The centre's 45 beds are at full capacity on a consistent basis.
“Being part of this new facility has been incredibly meaningful. This space is truly different," said Michelle Millman, Peer Support Worker. “It's built for care that meets individuals where they are, in every sense. Whether someone is seeking help for the first time or continuing their recovery journey, they're met with compassion, respect, and a team that sees the whole person. I've seen firsthand how this approach can restore hope."
Key impacts from the last year include:
- 30% reduction of patients returning to Brightshores' Emergency Departments within 30 days for care related to substance use
- Reduction in total visits for substance use at area Emergency Departments
- 80% of individuals on waitlist are attending virtual treatment or in-person electives
- 31 clients experiencing homelessness were discharged with stable housing
- 202 clients completed their individualized treatment plan
- 483 monthly addictions and/or mental health group sessions
- Creation of a sweat lodge with input from local Indigenous partners
“Being the first model of its kind in Ontario, this facility has filled a critical gap in response to the mental health and addiction crisis in our province — it's become a place of hope, healing and connection," said Naomi Vodden, Director, Mental Health & Addictions Services at Brightshores.
“While we know there is continued work to do, I'm incredibly proud of our team's unwavering commitment and the impact we've made in just one year. This milestone reflects the progress made as well as the opportunity to create lasting, meaningful change in the lives of individuals, families and communities across Grey Bruce."