The Dual Continua Model of Mental Health and Mental Health Emergency Department Visits for Adolescents and Emerging Adults

The dual continua model of mental health posits that mental illness and mental well-being exist on distinct but related dimensions, offering a holistic framework for understanding one’s mental health. This study examined the relationship between mental health status, defined by the dual continua model, and odds of mental health-related emergency department (ED) visits over three years among adolescents and emerging adults in Ontario and Alberta. Furthermore, the moderating role of unmet mental health care needs was explored. Linked survey and administrative data were used to implement a longitudinal cohort study design. Results suggest mental health status was associated with ED visits, but not once covariates were accounted for. There was no evidence for moderation by unmet mental health care needs. Prior mental health ED visits and residing in Ontario were significantly associated with ED visits. Further research is recommended to investigate the nature of this relationship.