Citizen Engagement

HMC works together with Nova Scotia Health (Central Zone) to help the Mental Health and Addictions Quality Committees find passionate community members who have lived experience with mental health and addiction challenges. If selected, community members join monthly quality team or committee meetings with NS Health administrators to ensure that programs are doing all that they can do to help and support Nova Scotians who are experiencing mental health challenges.

If you have personal experience of living with a diagnosed mental health challenge (including addiction) - OR - you have been the primary care giver for someone who has, we invite and encourage you to become an engaged citizen and to give back by getting involved as a Patient/Family Advisor (PFA)!

You may apply to become a PFA if you:

  • Have received treatment for your own mental health &/or addiction challenge (either as in or out-patient) through Mental Health and Addictions, Nova Scotia Health; OR,

  • Have provided care for a family member (usually, as a primary caregiver) for someone who has received treatment (either as in or out-patient) through Mental Health and Addictions, Nova Scotia Health.

  • Are currently living in a place of mental wellness, regularly practicing self-care.

  • Are open to different perspectives and diverse populations.

  • Are able to articulate your thoughts clearly in a business setting.

  • Can respectfully and thoughtfully share honest feedback.

  • Are willing to sign a strict confidentiality agreement.

  • Have wifi and a device (laptop, tablet or smartphone) that you can join online meetings through (it must have a camera and microphone).

  • Can commit the time and energy to attend and prepare for monthly meetings that run 1-2 hours each.