Research evidence shows the close relationship between physical, mental, and substance use health. However, accessing services for mental health and substance use can be difficult. Many people in Canada do not have regular access to primary healthcare providers, which are often the first point of contact for these services. This lack of access may harm both physical and mental health, leading to worse outcomes. As the demand for mental health and substance use health services increases, integration of these services into primary care becomes crucial.

In recognition of these challenges, the Canadian Standards Association conducted engagement sessions and a workshop to provide the opportunity for a representative group of Canadians with relevant living wisdom and expertise to share their views on challenges, successes, and promising practices for integrated primary care.

This workshop agreement brings together what we heard from the evidence review, engagement sessions, and workshop. It provides an overview of how to integrate mental health and substance use health with primary health care in Canada and offers suggestions for future standards development.

This work is part of a series of resources developed by the Standards Council of Canada to promote better understanding, alignment, and integration among mental health and substance use health care providers throughout the country.