Five Years, One Vision: Lakeridge Health and Durham Mental Health Services Mark Milestone in Transforming Mental Health and Addictions Care in Durham Region

(Durham Region) – October 3, 2025 – What began five years ago as a bold step toward integration is now a story of impact. Lakeridge Health and Durham Mental Health Services (DMHS) are proudly marking the five-year anniversary of their partnership, a milestone that has reshaped mental health and addictions care across Durham Region. Since joining forces in 2020, the two organizations have built a more connected, accessible, and client-centred system of care that’s making a real difference in the lives of thousands of people. 

“Five years ago, we committed to building a stronger, more connected mental health and addictions system,” said Kirsten Burgomaster, Health System Executive, Clinical, Lakeridge Health. “Today, we are proud to see how far we have come. By bringing together the strengths of both Lakeridge Health and DMHS, we have improved access and created new pathways of care that meet people where they are – in hospital, in the community, or at home.” 

On October 1, 2020, the integration brought together hospital and community-based services, creating a unified system of care that improves access, coordination, and outcomes for clients and their families. Since then, the Mental Health and Addictions (MHA) team has provided more seamless support to individuals on their recovery journeys. 

“For 45 years, I believed I had no choices,” explained Peter Mabey, a client in the Mental Health and Addictions Program. “Addiction and mental health challenges shaped every part of my life, and there were times I thought I was too far gone. But through the support of programs, peers, and dedicated people at DMHS and Lakeridge Health, I found recovery – and with it, hope, courage, and a future worth living. Thanks to these incredible teams, I stand here not just alive but living in recovery.”  

Over the last five years, the integration has enabled the introduction of innovative initiatives such as Central Connect – a single point of access to more than 55 programs and services – as well as new peer support programs at Pinewood Addictions Services and expanded complex care planning in the community. 

“This milestone is not only about the progress we’ve made, but also about the people behind it,” said Beth Brannon, Senior Director, Mental Health and Addictions Program. “Our staff, physicians, patient and family advisors, and community partners have worked tirelessly to ensure clients receive compassionate, comprehensive care. Their dedication has brought our integration vision to life and continues to make a difference in thousands of lives across our Durham Region communities.” 

The anniversary has been marked by a week-long series of activities, including the in-person Recovery Awareness Event on October 1 – the first since the COVID-19 pandemic. This special celebration honoured clients, families, and providers who champion recovery and resilience in mental health and substance use services. 

“As we reflect on the past five years, we also look forward to the future,” said Dr. Kevin Chopra, Medical Director, Mental Health and Addictions Program. “Through our multi-year strategy, Together, Best Mental Health, we remain committed to advancing innovation, strengthening partnerships, and building on the foundation of integration to provide the very best mental health and addictions care for the people of Durham.” 

For more information about Lakeridge Health’s Mental Health and Addictions program, visit www.lh.ca.