Pathways — the UBC Faculty of Medicine’s digital magazine — shares stories about learning, discovery and innovation that are making a difference in B.C. communities and around the world. Discover the impact of our global-leading health research and education.
Together we have travelled a great distance to understand mental illness and addictions, improve research and care, change attitudes and reduce stigma. The reality is, we have to.
This year, an estimated one in five British Columbians will be affected by a substance use problem or mental health issue, with youth and young adults experiencing the highest incidence of mental disorders than any other age group in the nation. In 2016, more than 900 people in the province lost their lives to a drug overdose with the number expected to surpass 1,500 this year.
Never has a health issue demanded a more holistic and scientific approach to find new ideas and new solutions. At the UBC Faculty of Medicine, it is our contract with society, and our courage, compassion and capabilities that will help us tackle the challenges ahead – here at home and around the world.
In this second issue of Pathways – our online magazine – explore the path we’re taking to educate the next generation of health professionals, as well as those on the front lines, to improve mental health and substance use care across the province.
See how we are using our world-leading research capabilities to explore the biology, genetics, and social determinants of mental health and substance use, turning questions into discoveries, and discoveries into new knowledge.
And discover how we are working with our people and partners across British Columbia to mobilize knowledge, seeking input and dialogue for what our communities and health care system partners need, to improve understanding and transform patient care.
Our path to hope and promise begins here.
Issue 2 Feature Story
Hope on the horizon
As a child, the image of flames engulfing her home — of her mother not being able to escape the thick, carbon smoke — tormented Andrea for years.
But the fire, visited over and over in her mind, was one that had never taken place.
“As a kid, I was always really anxious,” says Andrea. “I was worried about leaving the house, about a fire starting, about something happening to my mother.”
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