Inclusion of Brain Injury in Titled Office Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions

Whereas in April 2016, the province of BC declared a public health emergency related to the rise of opioid overdose deaths. A growing number of individuals who have survived a non-fatal overdose are living with an anoxichypoxic brain injury. Survivors of Acquired Brain Injury ABI following non-fatal overdose are falling through the cracks at an alarming rate and delayed neurological consequences after an overdose results in greater potential of missed diagnosis and treatment; And whereas acquired Brain Injury is a condition that affects the cognition, personality, mental and physical health, and future of British Columbians. There are currently over 1.5 Million Canadians living with an acquired brain injury; 180,000 of these in British Columbia, with brain injury often being the underlying cause of mental health, addictions and overdoses, incarceration, violence, and suicide.Sixty 60 people in British Columbia will acquire a brain injury today; And whereas the current system of post-acute acquired brain injury supports is non-existent or has barriers to access the much-needed wrap around supports. An early intervention system will provide a greater chance to maintain support networks, reduce overdose deaths, reduce mental health issues, and allow government to redirect funds: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM request the British Columbia Provincial Government to change the name of the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions to the Ministry of Brain Injury, Mental Health, and Addictions with proper financial support; And be it further resolved that the Province work with grassroots organizations and the federal government to create a National Strategy for Acquired Brain Injury that is adequately funded for this National crisis.