A sharp rise in deteriorating mental health among youth is being addressed locally.
A designated area is being opened for children and youth suffering from mental health and substance use concerns at Vernon Jubilee Hospital.
Interior Health (IH) confirms the new unit is on its way with a targeted opening date of Aug. 25, 2025.
Currently, children and youth requiring mental health and substance use support are placed in the Women鈥檚 and Children鈥檚 unit.
"This new dedicated unit will be designed to better support children and youth, including an environment designed for mental health recovery and care delivered by nurses with specialized mental health training," IH told The Morning Star. "This shift represents a significant enhancement in the quality and appropriateness of care for young patients."
Staff recruitment, preparation, training and logistical planning are underway to ensure a smooth transition.
"It's important to note that this is not a pediatric ward in the traditional sense, but rather a child and youth unit, specifically designed to support the unique needs of patients with mental health and substance use concerns across that broader age range."
The new unit was previously used for medical inpatients, particularly those awaiting placement in long-term care (LTC) facilities.
It also served as an interim space to support patient flow and care needs during transitions.
"The opening of additional LTC beds in the community has significantly improved flow on the unit, reducing the need for this dedicated space," IH said. "These particular patients are now able to be safely and appropriately supported on other units within the hospital鈥攁nd have been for some time鈥攚ithout compromising the quality of care."