LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Let’s stop talking and do something Re: Suicidal teen discharged for lack of a hospital bed, Feb. 9.

I’ve been there — being in hospital for mental health issues is a bad time.

My experiences haven’t been nearly as dire as Lori’s, but it’s not productive to get into a pity contest when it comes to mental illness. People’s problems matter. Whether someone’s issues are physical or mental isn’t important. As Canadians, we’ve long prided ourselves on our health care. But is it good enough?

As the Queensway Carleton Hospital’s chief of staff, Dr. Andrew Falconer, said, it’s good that we’re able to be more open about mentalhealth issues now than in the past. The system, however, still needs work.

I can relate to Lori’s experience of being strung along while waiting for treatment. Several years ago, after I had been hospitalized during an intense panic attack, my family contacted my doctor. My doctor talked about “phobias” and recommended me to a social worker.

It took a full year for the social worker to call. No follow-ups and no treatment, 12 months of misdiagnosis and being left in the dark.By the time the social worker contacted me, I was on an “upswing” and didn’t think I needed help. Luckily, I did eventually get proper treatment for what turned out to be generalized anxiety disorder, but it took far too long.

We’re making progress on this issue, but I agree with Lori’s mother. Forget about “Let’s Talk.” Let’s do something. Rob Sullivan, Orléans

Boost funding for mental health

As things stand now, more than half of young people who are trying to transition from child to adult mental health services drop out of the system — with little safety net to catch them. These are important formative years where good care can have a lasting and meaningful impact on someone’s lifelong health.

Lori’s story is just one example of the many young Canadians in dire need of specific, individualized treatment. That’s why the Mental Health Commission of Canada is calling for an increase in national spending on mental health, from seven per cent to nine per cent.

This commitment would help emerging adults, and all Canadians, benefit from a full continuum of care: from prevention and promotion initiatives, to the most intensive level of support. Louise Bradley, President and CEO, Mental Health Commission of Canada, Ottawa

Sanders something new in Washington Re: Sanders’ campaign can’t win, Feb. 10.

I have to disagree with columnist Andrew Cohen’s criticism of Bernie Sanders. I’m with the kids who are flocking to the Vermont senator as their choice for the Democratic nominee for president of the United States.

Sanders is not only a fresh old face but he might help America get rid of the Bushes and Clintons. Joe Spence, Kanata

Old rival now new idol for Sens fans Re: Sens got better of big trade — at least for now, Feb. 10.

When I heard that former Leafs captain Dion Phaneuf was coming to Ottawa, it reminded me of a Seinfeld episode in which he spoke about being a fan. He concluded with the following: in the end you’re just cheering for a shirt. He was correct. A longtime fan, I will be there cheering for the Ottawa Senators and Phaneuf. Go Dion! (I can’t believe those last two words.) Brian MacMillan, Ottawa

LeBreton ideal spot for new hospital Re: Hospital looks for land options, Feb. 10.

Recently, I saw a suggestion that the rebuilt Civic campus of the Ottawa Hospital be located at LeBreton Flats. I thought this was an excellent idea.

We need a new hospital. Where else in the downtown area is any one going to find enough land to suit the purpose? LeBreton is a site well placed. Tudor Jones, Ottawa