Integrating mental health care in disaster recovery: an analysis of British Columbia's government strategies

Disasters have profound and lasting impacts on mental health, increasing rates of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders, particularly among vulnerable populations. This study examines how British Columbia integrates mental health care into disaster recovery, evaluating existing policies, programs, and service accessibility. Findings reveal that while initiatives such as Emergency Support Services (ESS), Disaster Psychosocial Support (DPS), and Psychological First Aid (PFA) provide short-term assistance, there is insufficient transition to long-term mental health recovery. The heavy reliance on community-based organizations and volunteers, with limited involvement from specialized mental health professionals, creates service gaps that hinder sustained support. Additionally, the absence of a standardized evaluation framework makes it difficult to assess the effectiveness of post-disaster mental health interventions. This study highlights the need for stronger policy integration, long-term funding, and improved mental health service accessibility. Recommendations include expanding research on long-term mental health outcomes, integrating mental health professionals into disaster response teams, and developing standardized assessment tools. Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts between government agencies, health authorities, and local communities to build a more resilient and evidence-based disaster mental health system in British Columbia.