To the editor,
The options we have available to Nanaimo residents living with mental health and addictions can improve. The time is now that we can pivot from merely considering good for those in need, to actually creating restorative change for our community.
The level of support presently available, leaves gaps in services that deeply wounds those seeking help. Our range of housing choices needs to be more inclusive of different levels of support, including dry housing. This makes more sense for those seeking a dry lifestyle, including those newly out of treatment. Our community also needs a wider range of support, from treatment options, e.g. detox and treatment facilities, affordable psychiatric therapy, safe drug supply, and prevention sites. A small advance in each of these areas is more inclusive, leaving no one behind to wait for the support they desperately need.
Ideally, all of this will be truly successful when the community comes together to better understand the unique characteristics of people living with mental health and addiction. Together we can make Nanaimo diversely inclusive, creating a thriving community through understanding and support for all.
Lori Thomas, B.C. Green Party Nanaimo Riding Association
The views and opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are those of the writer and do not reflect the views of Black Press or the Nanaimo News Bulletin.
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