The challenges are formidable. We don’t yet fully understand what causes mental illness or how to prevent it. Treatments are effective but don’t work for everyone, and many people with mental illness struggle to access the services they need. Their health deteriorates with every roadblock or detour.
But while the need is great, our commitment is greater. We are serving more patients at CAMH, while increasing the capacity of care providers across Ontario to care for patients in their local communities. We know we cannot afford to let even one person fall through the cracks.
In our Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, our scientists are identifying the biomarkers needed for a greater understanding of what causes mental illness. They are piloting personalized medicine, where a simple cheek swab identifies the right medication for the right patient. This signals the end of trial-and-error prescribing, and sets people on the path to recovery sooner.
We are pioneering new treatments with enormous potential. Brain stimulation, for example, is painless and effective with virtually no side-effects—the most significant advance in mental health treatment in more than a generation.
This year we made major discoveries that bring us closer to understanding what causes schizophrenia. We are pinpointing new targets for treatment, and sharing those targets with the world.
Our impact extends beyond science. We are helping build a better system to help more people access the right care at the right time. We are tackling the social factors that determine mental health, and are challenging the prejudice and stigma that prevents so many from getting the help they need. By reducing stigma, we know we will stop mental illness from destroying lives.
Our ability to create positive change will continue to grow because our work is supported by people with vision—true leaders in the quest to build a society in which everyone believes life is worth living. Private philanthropy has been central to our success.
Through our
The breakthroughs have already begun at CAMH and there are many more to come.
