Hi, my name is Antoine and this is my first year on CMH. I was raised in Montreal, where I completed high school and Cégep before beginning medical school at McGill.

 

Over the course of my studies, I have become deeply passionate about understanding the systemic factors that prevent vulnerable populations from accessing equitable mental and physical healthcare. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I believe it is essential to recognize and address these issues. My interest in this sphere of medicine pushed me to become involved with the McGill Medical Students’ Society’s Equity Committee and HealthQueer Professionals, both aimed at advocating for and educating medical students about provision of equitable healthcare. My involvement in these clubs helped to expand my understanding of barriers to mental and physical healthcare, and learn how to effectively advocate for my future patients. Furthermore, my clinical experiences in settings predominantly serving members of marginalized populations – including immigrants, refugees, queer folks and Indigenous peoples – have allowed me to appreciate the deep interconnections between mental and physical health that are essential to ensure one’s well-being and ability to grow into the person they aspire to be.

 

After graduation this spring, I hope to continue my medical training in family medicine, a discipline that will allow me to continue to develop my passion for both mental and physical health. Through my involvement with CMH, I hope to further develop my understanding of the various barriers to mental healthcare, to develop relationships with my future colleagues in different spheres of mental healthcare, and to learn how to better navigate the healthcare system to ensure that my future patients can receive all the help they need and deserve.