COVID-19: A message from our Executive Director

The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented situation causing major disruption to all aspects of our lives. I want to assure you that the Douglas Foundation is taking all the necessary precautions to protect the health and well being of its employees in order to address this new reality. We are working hard to make sure that our colleagues on the front lines have the resources they need to weather this storm, and to support the continued care of our patients during this difficult time.

Like all medical and research facilities around the globe, the Douglas Mental Health University Institute is significantly impacted by the current situation. All teaching activities as well as the majority of active research is on hold to enable the team to stay safe at home. At the same time, our medical team is working hard to adapt practices to meet current public health guidelines and limit the spread of COVID-19 in our facilities, including setting up a dedicated unit for patients who have tested positive.

The negative impact of the change in routine and physical isolation is already taking its toll on our patients. The majority of our out-patient clinics have been cancelled, and are replaced when possible by virtual consultation and treatment. Given that successful treatment for mental illness often relies on a team based approach, this is especially challenging. We are, however, grateful for the continued support of our generous donors to help us make sure that all of our stakeholders can count on us for support during this difficult time – whether it is by helping to secure technological tools to help limit isolation, delivering meals to front-line staff or providing reliable resources for the public to consult.

We are extremely grateful to men and women working on the front lines of this crisis. They are heroes, leaving a lasting impact on our community with their commitment and dedication to ensure patient care does not suffer. They deserve our praise, and our support – both today, and in dealing with the aftermath of this collective trauma.

Your donations to the Douglas Foundation help support these men and women as they fight through the current situation, and will continue to provide support for all of those suffering from the impact on mental health long after the pandemic has passed.

Together, we are ready to take up this challenge. Together, we are building hope.

Be generous,

Laura Fish

Executive Director

Douglas Foundation