(MONCTON) Monday, June 28, 2021 - This month, the Intensive Day Treatment Program is marking one year since opening in Moncton to help New Brunswickers experiencing concurrent addiction and mental health issues.

Since last July, 65 people have benefited from the Horizon Health Network program. The provincial government provides $386,000 annually to help operate the community-based facility, which is the first program of its kind in the province.

"This program serves as another example of the government responding to the needs of residents in the Moncton region," said Health Minister Dorothy Shephard. "This is a big step forward in broadening the continuum of care across the province. Even while respecting the restrictions brought about by COVID-19, the service provided vital aid to those in need."

Broadening the continuum of care was identified as a priority following consultations that took place between 2015 and 2018 with stakeholders that included people with lived experience and health-care providers. Providing more intensive services in a community setting contributes toward that goal.

The program offers services that address both substance use and mental health needs and challenges. It provides participants with a variety of coping skills, all designed to reduce the chance of relapse and to improve the quality of life.

"We are proud of the work accomplished over the last year at the Intensive Day Treatment Program," said Jean Daigle, Horizon's VP Community. "The creation and implementation of this program adds to the development of an effective and comprehensive community model for addiction and mental health services."

The program was developed based upon principles of effective service delivery and is intended to meet the individual treatment needs of each person. It is an open-ended service with admissions on a weekly basis to increase access and reduce barriers.

Participants are provided with up to 20 hours of group and individual services per week. The length of the program is between four and six weeks, depending on individual needs.

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For more information contact:

Kris McDavid
Media Relations
1-877-499-1899
media@horizonnb.ca
news.horizonnb.ca