The Mission of a University Institute in Mental Health
The Institute’s mission consists of three core elements: care, education and research. In addition to these elements, the Institute engages in activities that focus on assessing practices and sharing knowledge with a broad audience.
Care
The teams at the Institute offer mental health services to people of all ages. The Institute, which serves the Sud-Ouest-Verdun and Dorval-Lachine-LaSalle, and provides specialized services in other regions across Québec.
Under Québec’s Act Respecting Health Services and Social Services, all healthcare facilities must provide their services in French.
The Institute also provides its services in English to those who prefer to communicate in English.
Teaching
The Institute, in partnership with McGill University and other educational institutions, prepares the next generation of mental health professionals across all medical and professional disciplines.
It also contributes to the adoption of best practices by the health and social services network.
Research and Discovery
Our researchers and clinicians, who are specialized in translational research, are committed to the study of mental disorders. As such, they help to advance knowledge in the fields of neuroscience, clinical practice and the organization of services.
Assessments
With a commitment to ongoing improvement, our clinicians and researchers assess technologies and intervention methods, ranging from promising new approach to well-established practices, thereby maximizing the clinical benefits and the effectiveness of the healthcare network.
Knowledge Translation
Our researchers and clinicians translate scientific discoveries into clinical practice and the organization of services.
They share the latest findings and best practices to optimize the mental health services.
They develop tools that support evidence-based decision-making. In addition, they help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness through public awareness initiatives.
Mandate
Our Official Designation
In 2006, the Douglas Hospital became one of the first hospital to receive the official designation of Mental Health University Institute under the Act Respecting Health Services and Social Services. As a result, it was formally renamed the Douglas Mental Health University Institute.
Designation Criteria
To receive this designation, hospitals must meet seven criteria:
1. A specialized approach to mental health
2. High quality and well-organized services
3. Development of cutting-edge practices
4. Education and training
5. Research in mental health
6. Evaluation of technology and treatment approaches
7. The integration of all the above criteria
The Institute has continued to evolve, adapting to structural changes within Québec’s healthcare system. In 2011, its designation was renewed, confirming its commitment to excellence.
