The province has announced the establishment of a new 60-bed inpatient addictions treatment facility near Lumsden. This initiative, a key pillar of the province’s Action Plan for Mental Health and Addictions, reflects the government’s commitment to adding 500 treatment spaces across Saskatchewan.
The facility, set to open its doors in Spring 2024, will be located at the former Living Skies Retreat & Conference Centre. This picturesque location, situated about 20 minutes northwest of Regina, will provide a serene backdrop for individuals seeking recovery from addiction.
Operated by EHN Canada, a leading addictions treatment provider with a proven track record of clinical excellence, the facility aims to offer holistic, wrap-around inpatient addictions treatment for adults aged 18 and older. The comprehensive 16-week program will address various types of addictions and related mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and PTSD.
The Government of Saskatchewan is doubling down on its commitment to expanding treatment options for those struggling with addiction. Mental Health and Addictions Minister Tim McLeod emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating in a media release: “The Government of Saskatchewan is focused on getting people the treatment that they need to overcome addictions and live healthy lives in recovery.”
EHN Canada’s National Operations Vice-President, Dr. Christina Basedow, highlighted the commitment to clinical excellence, ensuring that the facility in Lumsden will be staffed by a team of highly-skilled professionals dedicated to providing the latest evidence-based treatments. The goal is to offer Saskatchewan residents the highest quality care and support in their pursuit of addiction recovery and concurrent mental health treatment.
Minor renovations are planned for the former St. Michael’s Retreat site, previously established by the Franciscan Friars of Western Canada in 1963. The facility’s planned use received approval from the RM of Lumsden No. 189 council on January 3, 2024, with the support of the Town of Lumsden.
This initiative brings the total number of announced addictions treatment spaces under Saskatchewan’s Action Plan for Mental Health and Addictions to 168. The government has exceeded its original commitment of adding 150 spaces and is progressing toward the new target of 500.
Colleen Quinlan, SHA Mental Health and Addictions Executive Director, emphasized the importance of providing timely and specialized treatment, said the release, “This facility will provide the capacity to provide treatment in a timely and specialized manner in an inspiringly picturesque location.”
With this new facility, Saskatchewan aims to provide critical support for individuals struggling with addiction, addressing not only the immediate crisis but also contributing to long-term recovery and mental well-being.