Lorne Fraser Fund: 2006 Applications Available - Due April 25 [back to top]
The Lorne Fraser Educational Fund, providing bursaries to people with mental illness who want to pursue post-secondary education, is now accepting applications for its 2006 program season. Since 1982, The Lorne Fraser fund has helped 72 British Columbians pursue their educational dreams. This year's deadline is April 25. Visit www.cmha.bc.ca for more information and applications. Paper versions of the application are available at CMHA branches, clubhouses, mental health centres, and campus disability offices.

Jean Moore Nominated For Volunteer Vancouver Award [back to top]
CMHA BC offers our sincerest congratulations to Jean Moore, Secretary of the CMHA BC Division Board of Directors (also past President and long-time volunteer), on her nomination for the Volunteer Vancouver's Community Service Individual Award for her outstanding continuous contributions to the community. Volunteer Vancouver's Volunteer Recognition Awards celebrate the spirit of volunteerism and showcase the voluntary efforts of countless individuals and groups. Award recipients will be announced during the gala dinner ceremony on April 24 at the Westin Bayshore Resort & Marina, Vancouver. For more details, visit www.volunteervancouver.ca. Learn more about Jean in our Outstanding CMHA Volunteer feature.

Mental Health Week 2006 – May 1 - 7 [back to top]
This year’s Mental Health Week is taking place the during the first week of May. Building on last year’s theme of Practicing Mind + Body Fitness, this year's theme for the country-wide awareness and education campaign is Taking Care of Your Mind. With Canadians becoming increasingly aware of the importance of good mental health, the CMHA’s goal this year is to motivate people all across the country to improve their mental fitness. Promotional posters, pamphlets, and Mental Health Meters are available to order free of charge at ShopCMHA.
Watch for a full listing of Mental Health Week events across BC in the May Issue of Mind Matters. Here's just a taste of some of the Mental Health Week activities by CMHA's across the province:

April 30	19th Annual Kite Festival - Free, family-oriented fun. There will be face painting, a coloring contest with prizes for children, as well as refreshments, kites and T-shirts for sale.12 noon to 3 pm at Clover Point in Victoria.
May 2	This Beggar's Description - Enjoy a free film screening of the story of devoted father and celebrated poet Philip Tetrault’s life of love, art and madness. Doors at 7:00pm with some light refreshments, film screening at 7:30pm - no late seating. At the Ralph Fisher Auditorium, Richmond Hospital, 7000 Westminster Hwy., Richmond.
May 3	The Importance of Slowing Down: Taking Time Out for Your Mental Health Free lecture with speakers Lisa Gibson on yoga/meditation, and Colleen Froese on sleep/sleep disorders. 5:30pm - 7:30pm at YWCA, 535 Hornby St., Vancouver
May 5	Spring Fling Dance - Come dance to the professional DJ music of Stan Bailly from 8pm to midnight. At the Kamloops United Church, 421 St. Paul Street, Kamloops. Tickets are $10.00, or $5.00 for those on fixed income (no proof required), and can be purchased at CMHA, 857 Seymour Street, or at the door.

Help Us Make a Difference! [back to top]
Mental illness means loss on so many levels, from a job or a relationship, to one's own dignity. It's hard to regain a sense of hope. Sometimes we need help. CMHA is there.
With your help, CMHA can help someone with mental illness find a place to call home, or to find and keep a job when illness strikes. We believe that a caring community heals, and restores hope. You can help light a person's sense of hope again with your donation. Give hope. We need your support! www.givehope.ca

Vancouver/Burnaby Branch Special Events [back to top]
CMHA Vancouver/Burnaby Branch's Recreation Services Program provides opportunities for adults who are living with mental illness to participate in recreation and experience the benefits of leisure. The following special events take place at or depart from the Vancouver Recreation Office at 175 West Broadway. Please call (604) 872-3148 to register for two of the following events. Please note that residents of Vancouver will be given priority for registration.
April 7 – Tea at the Clayburn General Store
April 10 – Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
April 21 – Japanese Cultural Centre Tour
April 24 – Lunch in Steveston
April 28 – Minnekhada Park Day Hike

North Shore Health Lecture Series [back to top]
The free weekly Health Lecture Series organized by CMHA North and West Vancouver meets on the 2nd floor of the John Braithwaite Community Centre at 145 West 1st Street in North Vancouver (between Chesterfield and Lonsdale Avenue). All lectures start at 7:00pm. For more information please phone (604) 987-6959 or visit www.cmhanwv.com.
April 5 – Comedy: Stand Up For Mental Health 2006 Class Showcase
April 12 – Change your Underlying Beliefs, Change Your Life Results
April 19 – Non-violent Communication
April 26 – North Shore Coast Garibaldi Peer Support Advisory Committee

Consumers In Action Program [back to top]
The Consumers in Action Program offers people with mental illness the opportunity to learn leadership and advocacy skills. CMHA White Rock/Surrey branch is currently offering the program on Mondays at 1:00pm - 3:00pm at the Surrey Community Services, 9815 140th Street, Surrey in Room 104 on the Main Floor. Call (604) 536-2486 to register for one or all of the modules. For more information about the Consumers in Action Program, visit www.nnmh.ca.
April 10 – Leadership Skills
April 24 + May 1 – Advocacy Skills
May 8 + 15 – Community Participation
May 29 + June 5 – Policy & Standards Development
June 12 + 19 – Self-Help Development

CMHA - MDA Mandarin Emotional Health Support Group - April 10 [back to top]
This free support group meets the second Monday of every month for a wide range of activities including but not limited to presentations on improving emotional health and group sharing. Those in the support group share experiences in living with depression or overcoming depression with each other, and provide mutual support.
April’s support group will address the “Holistic Approach to Body, Mind and Spirit” with Certified Canadian Counsellor, Andrew Lee. Open to those who suffer mood disorders or other emotion-related problems, those who have a general interest in emotional health, and mental health professionals. 7:00pm – 9:00pm at CMHA Vancouver/Burnaby Branch, 175 West Broadway (At Columbia), Vancouver. Please contact Stella at (604) 872-4902 or (604) 603-0332 or stella_lee@cmhavb.bc.ca.

Chinese Depression Screening and Information Night - April 24 [back to top]
CMHA Vancouver/Burnaby branch is hosting the first in a series of monthly Depression Screening and Information Nights on April 24, from 7:00pm - 9:00pm at CMHA Vancouver/Burnaby Branch, 175 West Broadway (At Columbia), Vancouver. Please register by contacting Stella at (604) 872-4902 or (604) 603-0332 or stella_lee@cmhavb.bc.ca.

Gail Simpson’s Retirement Celebration in Victoria – April 26 [back to top]
After a career spanning over 40 years in the mental health field, Gail Simpson, the Executive Director of CMHA Victoria Branch for the past 20 years is retiring at the end of April. Gail's compassion and understanding of the needs of people experiencing mental health concerns is widely known and respected. Her vast knowledge of mental health issues, programs and services together with her inimitable style will be sorely missed. CMHA Victoria Branch invites you to join them in celebration of Gail Simpson’s retirement from 3:00pm to 5:00pm at 125 Skinner Street. Call (250) 389-1211 to RSVP.

New Issue of Visions on Criminal Justice [back to top]
This edition of Visions: BC's Mental Health and Addictions Journal explores the intricate relationship between criminal justice and mental illness and addictions. Issues surrounding available treatment for disorders in prisons, stereotypes in the media, criminalization of individuals, surviving after prison release, mental health court, integration with the community, street crime, advocacy in the court systems, forensic psychiatric settings, and more. First-hand experiences and perspectives of the criminal justice system in BC are also shared.
Visions is published by BC Partners for Mental Health and Addictons Information, of which CMHA BC is member. Visions is written by and for people who have used mental health or addictions services, mental health service providers, family and friends, and mental health and addictions leaders and decision-makers, and provided free of charge to these same groups. To view this issue of Visions online, or to subscribe visit www.heretohelp.bc.ca.

Clinical Treatment Should Include Reduction of Mental Health Risk in the Workplace [back to top]
According to the authors of a review published in the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry that looked at studies of mental health and the workplace, the effect of depression and anxiety on work ability is significant, and clinical treatment should include the goal of maintaining productivity in the workplace. See “Common Mental Disorders in the Workforce: Recent Findings from Descriptive and Social Epidemiology,” available at www.cpa-apc.org.
>> learn more about supporting people with mental illness in the workplace with the Mental Health Works program and other resources available on the CMHA BC website.

Employers With Positive Views More Willing to Hire People with Mental Illness [back to top]
Small business employers who work in pubic or social services or who have had positive interactions and beliefs about people with mental illness or were more willing to hire them, according to a study published recently in the Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal. See “Small Business Employers’ Views on Hiring Individuals with Mental Illness.” The abstract with paid access to the full text is available at prj.metapress.com.

Immigrants at Higher Risk for Postpartum Depression [back to top]
Immigrant women are at far greater risk for depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period than women born in Canada. An alarming 42 per cent of 120 pregnant immigrant women scored above the cut-off point for depression in a screening test, according to a study by a Montreal team of researchers published recently in the journal Transcultural Psychiatry. By contrast, studies of depression during pregnancy have reported rates of about 12 per cent in the general population. See “Immigrants at higher risk for postpartum depression,” at www.canada.com.
>> if the topic of cross-cultural mental health interests you, check out the Visions Journal issue on Cross Cultural Mental Health in our Journal archives on the CMHA BC website.

Inequity in Canadian Universal Mental Health Care [back to top]
Residents of neighbourhoods with high socioeconomic status use more mental health services covered by Ontario’s provincial health plan than residents of less affluent neighbourhoods, according to a study published recently in Psychiatric Services. The authors say that patients from the neighbourhoods with the highest socioeconomic status were 1.6 times more likely to see a psychiatrist than those from the lowest-status neighbourhoods. See “Inequality in Mental Health Care under Canadian Universal Health Coverage.” Paid access to full text is available at psychservices.psychiatryonline.org.

Psychiatrists Recommend Wait Times Benchmarks [back to top]
The Canadian Psychiatric Association (CPA) has released recommendations on wait time benchmarks for patients with serious psychiatric illnesses. The CPA has identified sentinel illnesses - what they call “our canaries in the mineshaft” - for which services should be provided within a specific period of time. The CPA has based their approach on similar benchmarks established by other medical specialties. According to the CPA, their wait times are based on best evidence for clinical care, not on whether resources are available. See “Wait Time Benchmarks for Patients with Serious Psychiatric Illnesses: A Series of Recommendations Made by Canada's Psychiatrists (In Press),” available in PDF format at www.cpa-apc.org.

Moderate Drinking May Not Improve Heart Health [back to top]
There's some bad news for moderate drinkers: they may not be improving their health after all. Led by a University of Victoria research team, an international study analyzing other studies about the health impact of small amounts of alcohol, found that there were flaws in studies suggesting that moderate drinkers – defined as those having two drinks or less a day – have better cardiac health than non-drinkers because the alcohol increases plasma antioxidant activity. See “Moderate Drinking Brings Dubious Benefits,” at www.silink.ca.

Link Between Pathological Gambling and Suicidal Behaviour [back to top]
The latest edition of the SIEC Alert newsletter from the Centre for Suicide Prevention reviews research that shows that suicide attempts among pathological gamblers are more frequent than in the general population. According to the newsletter, as licensed gambling has increased in Canada and the United States, so has the issue of problem gambling. There is, however, still not much research on the link between problem gambling and suicide and suicidal behaviour. See “SIEC Alert #61: When Gambling Becomes a Problem,” at www.suicideinfo.ca.

Self-Harm: Pain From the Inside Out [back to top]
Self-harm is a broad term that refers to deliberate, self-damaging behaviour. It is sometimes called self-injury, self-mutilation, or self-abuse. It is deliberate, often repetitive actions to cause damage to skin, bones or other body parts. Self-harm is hard for others to understand, but fear of reactions of disgust, confusion and avoidance may cause those who self-harm to refrain from seeking medical attention for their injuries. See "Self-Harm: Pain From the Inside Out,” at www.canadian-health-network.ca. CMHA is the national mental health affiliate for the Canadian Health Network.

Eating Disorders Not Limited to Those Under Age of 30 [back to top]
Say the word anorexia and the image of a young woman, skin and bones, comes to mind. But anorexia nervosa is not limited to those under the age of 30, says an eating disorders expert. Dr. Kathryn Zerbe says that baby boomers, now approaching midlife, struggle with eating disorders as much as people half their age. Eating disorders later in life may develop as a reaction losses such as the death of a spouse or parent, divorce, job loss, and the empty nest syndrome. See “Thin Like Me,” at chealth.canoe.ca.

Healthy Lifestyle Lowers Risk of Dementia [back to top]
Just when you might have thought there couldn't possibly be another chronic disease to worry about, doctors are raising alarm bells about a common affliction of the brain that can severely impair cognitive abilities later in life. Unlike Alzheimer's, which progressively erodes memory, white matter disease gradually robs a person of the ability to make decisions, on everything from looking after finances and organizing one's day to choosing what to wear and what to eat for supper. But what's important, doctors say, is that lesions affecting the white matter of the brain appear to be preventable by taking simple steps - and the earlier in life one starts, the better. See “Healthy Lifestyle Lowers Risk of Dementia” at chealth.canoe.ca.

Drugs Cure Depression In Half of Patients [back to top]
Antidepressants fail to cure the symptoms of major depression in half of all patients with the disease even if they receive the best possible care, according to a large-scale study by the United States government. Significant numbers of patients continue to experience symptoms such as sadness, low energy and hopelessness after intensive treatment, even as about an equal number report an end to such problems - a result that quickly lent itself to interpretations that the glass was either half empty or half full. See “Drugs Cure Depression In Half of Patients,” at www.washington post.com.

Treating Moms Can Help Prevent Kids’ Depression [back to top]
Researchers say they've shown for the first time that treating a mother's depression can help prevent depression and anxiety disorders in her child, a provocative finding with potentially big public health implications. In the study, which was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, those children whose mothers' depression disappeared during three months of treatment were much less likely to be diagnosed with depression, anxiety or behaviour problems than those whose mothers did not improve. See “Treating moms can help prevent kids’ depression, study suggests,” at chealth.canoe.ca.

Kids’ Prescriptions For Anti-Psychotic Drugs Skyrockets [back to top]
Soaring numbers of American children are being prescribed anti-psychotic drugs - in many cases, for attention deficit disorder or other behavioural problems for which these medications have not been proven to work, a study found. The annual number of children prescribed anti-psychotic drugs jumped fivefold between 1995 and 2002, to an estimated 2.5 million, according to a study published in Ambulatory Pediatrics, but more than half of the prescriptions were for attention deficit and other non-psychotic conditions. See”Kids’ prescriptions for anti-psychotic drugs skyrockets,” at chealth.canoe.ca.

More Students Seeking Psychiatric or Psychological Help for Severe Problems [back to top]
According to the "2005 National Survey of Counseling Center Directors", more than 90 percent of the directors of college counseling centers in the United States and Canada report an increase in the number of students seeking psychiatric or psychological help for severe problems on campus. The 25th annual survey includes data from 366 campus counseling centers and can be accessed at www.iacsinc.org. See also, “Pitt-Sponsored National Survey on Mental Health Of American College Students Released This Week,” at www.umc.pitt.org.

Drug Helps Severe Dementia [back to top]
A drug used to treat mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease also seems to help patients with severe dementia, a new study suggests. Bengt Winblad of the Karolinska Institutet in Huddinge, Sweden, and colleagues found those on donepezil tended to fare better at daily activities and relied less on nursing staff compared to those in a placebo group. See “Drug helps severe dementia: study” at www.cbc.ca.

Drugs May be More Effective Than Psychotherapy for Preventing Return of Depression in Elderly [back to top]
For elderly people who suffer bouts of depression, drugs work surprisingly better than psychotherapy at keeping these black spells from returning, suggests the longest study ever in patients so old. The findings from the two-year study published in the New England Journal of Medicine may encourage some doctors to prescribe antidepressants for longer periods, perhaps even for life, in patients who have been depressed. Backed by the National Institutes of Health, the study responds to a rising trend to prescribe medicine not just to treat depression, but to keep it from coming back. See “Drugs trounce psychotherapy for blocking depression’s return in elderly,” at chealth.canoe.ca.

Smoking Interferes With Brain’s Recovery From Alcoholism [back to top]
Smoking appears to interfere with the brain's ability to recover from the effects of chronic alcohol abuse, according to a study conducted by researchers at the San Francisco VA Medical Center. After one month of sobriety, recovering alcoholics who smoked showed significantly less improvement than those who did not smoke in both brain function and neurochemical markers of brain cell health. The study appears in the March issue of Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research. See “Smoking interferes with brain's recovery from alcoholism,” at pub.ucsf.edu.

United States Gets a D Grade in Helping Adults With Serious Mental Illness [back to top]
National Alliance on Mental Illness has released a comprehensive, state-by-state analysis of mental health systems in the United States entitled "Grading the States: A Report on America's Mental Health Care System for Serious Mental Illness." It is the first report of its kind in more than 15 years. The authors say their findings confirm that the American mental health care system is in trouble, with over half the states receiving a grade of D or lower, and only five states receiving a B.The report is available online at www.nami.org.

Researching The Active Ingredients of Peer Support (USA)
Peer support among adults with serious mental illness is in an early stage of development as a form of mental health services, and further research is needed to identify and evaluate the unique contributions made by peer support workers, according to a review in Schizophrenia Bulletin.

Three Approaches to Reduce Stigma of Mental Illness (USA)
Preliminary research shows initial support for three ways of addressing mass audiences to reduce the stigma of mental illness, according to a paper published in Psychiatric Services.

Depression Symptoms and Vascular Disease Linked With Increased Risk of Dementia (USA)
A study published recently in the Archives of General Psychiatry found that depressive symptoms and vascular disease in older adults may be independent risk factors for developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI), which often occurs before dementia.

Two Integrated Treatments For Concurrent Disorders Show Good Outcomes (USA)
Assertive community treatment (ACT) and standard case management are equally effective in treating people with severe mental illness and addiction when delivered by staff who have training in integrated approaches for concurrent disorders, according to a recent article in Psychiatric Services.

Crisis Intervention Team Program Shows Positive Results (USA)
A crisis intervention team (CIT) program involving police, mental health workers, consumers, and their family members can help persons experiencing a mental health crisis to gain access to appropriate treatment, according to a study published in Psychiatric Services.

Consensus Statement on Recovery Released (USA)
A national consensus statement on mental health recovery was released by the United States Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration based on discussions at a national conference that involved seven other federal agencies and 110 expert panelists representing consumers, families, providers and other stakeholders.

National Harm Reduction Awards Program Launched [back to top]
The Kaiser Foundation is launching a national awards program to recognize the efforts of the thousands of nameless people and organizations who help people beat drug addiction. The National Harm Reduction Awards program aims to recognize the unsung heroes who help reduce the harms associated with drug abuse in Canada. Each winner receives a $10,000 prize that will be donated to a recognized charitable organization of their choosing. The first awards will be presented at a ceremony in Vancouver on May 1, 2006. For more information, visit the website at www.kaiserfoundation.ca.

Fraser Health Invests $1.96 million in Fighting Crystal Meth [back to top]
Fraser Health has announced a fleet of initiatives to combat crystal meth and significantly expand youth addictions programs - including six new Youth Outreach Workers and residential treatment, thanks to $1.96 million of provincial funding. The funding is dedicated to an array of treatment options and youth addictions services. The overall goal is to promote health, prevent harm, treat dependency, and support individuals and families. See “Fraser Health invests $1.96 million on youth addictions program and fighting crystal meth” at www.fraserhealth.ca.

BC Addictions Researchers Attract $2.5 M in CIHR Funding [back to top]
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) has posted the results of "Research in Addictions: Innovative Approaches in Health Research" and the outcome of this competition was outstanding for BC researchers! Congratulations to the applicants and their research teams, who together will bring $2.5 M in new federal funding to the province in support of addictions research. For more information about the approved CIHR grants in "Research in Addictions", including project titles, co-applicants, and amounts awarded, visit the CIHR website at www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca.

Health Canada to Boost Warnings on ADHD Drugs [back to top]
Health Canada will add tougher warnings to the labels of Ritalin, Adderall, Concerta and similar drugs that treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Health Canada plans to add tougher warnings to the stimulants in April that caution people with a family history of heart problems, patients taking another stimulant and those who engage in strenuous physical activity. Two million prescriptions for the stimulants, which increase blood pressure and speed up the pulse, were written in Canada in 2005 and use of the drugs is increasing. See “Health Canada to boost warnings on ADHD drugs,” at www.cbc.ca.

Anti-Stigma Campaign Designed By Youth [back to top]
From www.mindyourmind.ca, an award winning mental health site for youth and by youth, comes a print and online anti-stigma campaign by a group of youth participants. Check out the flash public service announcement, the poster and the postcard to see the results of youth contributions in fighting the shame behind mental health issues.

Child, Teen and Adult Psychosis Resources [back to top]
Although it affects around 40,000 people in British Columbia (about 1 in 100 Canadians), schizophrenia is one of the most widely misunderstood of all mental illnesses. Help educate yourself and others with a new series of child, teen and adult psychosis resources for consumers, friends and family, available on the BC Partners for Mental Health and Addictions Information (BC Partners) website. The collection of 14 fact sheets include general information for parents, siblings, family, friends and the general public, as well as resources for youth and adults who have or think they may have psychosis. Prepared by the British Columbia Schizophrenia Society (BCSS) on behalf of BC Partners. The fact sheets are available in PDF format at www.heretohelp.bc.ca.

Mental Health Toolkit for First Nations People [back to top]
“Pathways to Healing: A Mental Health Toolkit for First Nations People” has been released by the Canadian Collaborative Mental Health Initiative (CCMHI). The toolkit provides a basic overview of mental illness and mental health, focusing on the historical, social, economic and political conditions that have impacted the mental health of First Nations people. Specific sections include information on protecting one’s mental health, other pathways and holistic approaches to healing, and online resources and suggested readings.The toolkit is free to download in PDF format at www.ccmhi.ca.

Positive Body Image Resources for Teens [back to top]
Two new eating disorders prevention resources for teens are available on the BC Partners for Mental Health and Addictions Information (BC Partners) website. The one-page handouts, "Making Friends With Your Metabolism" and "Loving Yourself and Your Body in a Weight-Obsessed World" explain how metabolism affects body shape and size and provide tips on maintaining positive body image. The resources are part of a series of positive body image resources prepared by Association for Awareness and Networking Around Disordered Eating (ANAD) on behalf of BC Partners. Both handouts are available in HTML and PDF format at www.heretohelp.bc.ca.

Seniors Mental Health and Addictions Guide for Workers and Volunteers [back to top]
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) has published a guide to help workers and volunteers address the issues of substance use, mental health and gambling problems in older adults. “Responding to Older Adults with Substance Use, Mental Health and Gambling Challenges: A Guide for Workers and Volunteers” includes descriptions of common mental illnesses and how they affect older adults, facts about the aging process, and practical tips on communicating with seniors who may have mental health or addiction problems. See “Responding to Older Adults with Substance Use, Mental Health and Gambling Challenges: A Guide for Workers and Volunteers,” available at www.camh.net.

Collaboration Toolkits for Health Care Providers and Planners [back to top]
A new set of toolkits to help health care providers and planners create collaborative ventures between mental health and primary care services has been released by the Canadian Collaborative Mental Health Initiative (CCMHI). The general toolkit includes information on assessing needs, setting goals and objectives, funding, identifying barriers, developing and maintaining a well-functioning team, managing changes, and monitoring and evaluating initiatives. for health care providers and planners. Eight population-specific toolkits are available as companion documents to the general toolkit. The toolkits are free to download in PDF format at www.ccmhi.ca.

Presentations Highlight Importance for Public Engagement in Policy Debates [back to top]
Canadian Policy Research Networks has published two presentations that make the case for engaging the public in the development of public policy. The first presentation, “Getting the Public into Public Policy,” discusses why public participation, and not just consultation, is important in policy-making. The second presentation, “Engaging Citizens in Policy,” talks about the changing context of policy in Canada - declining trust in the government among the public, for example - and the importance of citizen engagement to the voluntary sector. Like the first presentation, this one notes some challenges to and requirements for citizen engagement. Both presentations are available in PowerPoint format at www.cprn.org.

Mental Health and Addictions Research Funding Opportunities [back to top]
BC Mental Health and Addictions Research Network provides funding for a range of proposal development supports, including access to expertise (e.g., proposal writer), collection and analysis of pilot data, travel monies for team meetings, etc. Priority is given to projects that demonstrate collaboration and networking across disciplines, across sites/organizations, and/or across regions of the province. The aim of these grants is to move researchers from an intermediate stage to a final stage of project and proposal formulation and to make researchers more competitive for securing national or international funding for their projects. For more information about the Network and funding opportunities available, visit www.mhanet.ca or contact the Network Coordinator, Dr. Jane Hood at jhood@phsa.ca or (604) 707-6393.

Youth Services Centre Seeking Housing Support Worker – Applications Due April 11 [back to top]
The Directions Youth Services Centre is seeking a full-time housing support worker to support and assist high-risk youth between the ages of 13 and 18, through their Housing Support and Assistance program. The program helps youth find secure, safe, affordable housing, and develop life skills. Qualified applicants will possess a 2-year diploma in youth care or 2 years post-secondary in a related field, 2 years of experience working with high-risk youth, knowledge of adolescent development and issues involved with homelessness, sexually exploited youth and drug and alcohol misuse, ability to maintain a schedule that allows for day and evening work, and a valid driver’s license and vehicle. View the full job posting at www.fsgv.ca. Submit resumes to Garth Astles, Program Coordinator via Fax at (604) 633-1472, or email at gastles@fgsv.ca by April 11.

Call For Volunteers for Mental Health Conference – April 29 [back to top]
Working Together: Family Involvement in the Mental Health System will be the the first conference dedicated to families at UBC. In order to make it a complete success, we looking for people that might be interested in volunteering for this full day event 8:30am to 5:00pm. We are currently looking for volunteers to help with registration, set-up and clean-up. We truly appreciate all the help we can get! If interested, please Carolina Romero, Vancouver/Richmond Regional Coordinator, BC Schizophrenia Society at (604) 247-1884.

Stories and Photographs Explore Significance of Social Support [back to top]
The Company of Others is a photo-essay-style book that shares the stories of five different “circles of friends” that support Canadians with physical or mental disabilities. Through poignant stories and photographs by the award-winning husband and wife team of Sandra Shields and David Campion, The Company of Others reveals the depth and significance of circles of support. 184 pages, 7” x 6” $24.95. All royalties from the sale of the book go to support activites of the PLAN institute for Caring Citizenship. For more information, visit www.planinstitute.ca.

BBC Radio Documentary on Caring for a Family Member With Mental Illness [back to top]
In the BBC Radio 4 documentary, Caring Beyond Reason, three families from Britain share their frank and vivid accounts of caring for a family member with mental illness. The half-hour long audio documentary is available to listen to online at news.bbc.co.uk.

Movie Mondays in Victoria [back to top]
Every Monday at 6:30 pm, Bruce Saunders' Movie Monday project presents free movies at the Eric Martin Pavilion at the 1900 block of Fort Street in Victoria. More details at www.islandnet.com
April 10 – The Girl In The Cafe
April 17 – Life & Death of Peter Sellers
May 1 - La Neuvaine

Caregiver Support Program [back to top]
This free education series takes place throughout the year and runs for 4 consecutive sessions. Participants can attend one session or all four sessions. 6:30pm – 8:30pm at Vancouver Community College, King Edward Campus, 1155 E. Broadway. Pre-registration is required. To register call (604) 877-4699.
May 25 - Caregiver Roles, Responsibilities & Experiences
June 1 – Stress Management & Relaxation Techniques
June 8 – Family Dnamics & Communication
June 15 – Community Health Services & Facility Placement

Public Lecture on Management of Chronic Pain and Depression – April 6 [back to top]
The Psychiatric Group Therapy Centre (PGTC) Alumni are hosting a free public lecture on chronic pain and depression management - how to take control, presented by Dr. Kenneth Craig, Registered Psychologist and UBC Professor. This is one in a series of lectures given by PGTC Alumni. 5:30pm to 7:30pm at Surrey Memorial Hospital Annex, Meeting Rooms 1 and 2. Register early as seating is limited: call the PGTC Alumni at (604) 585-5666, local 2517 or by e-mail at pgtcalumni@hotmail.com.

Stand Up For Mental Health 2006 Class Comedy Fundraiser - April 9 [back to top]
Most people think you have to be nuts to do stand up comedy, but Stand Up For Mental Health offers it as a form of therapy! Led by Vancouver counselor and stand up comic David Granirer, Stand Up For Mental Health teaches people with mental illness to take control by turning their problems into comedy. Featuring our all new 2006 class and headliner Mike MacDonald (Just For Laughs, Comedy Central, Showtime, and A&E's An Evening at the Improv) 7:00pm at the Arts Club Theatre, Vancouver. Tickets $39.50 at www.ticketmaster.ca or call 604-205-9242. More info at www.standupformentalhealth.com.

Frames of Mind Screening – The Devil and Daniel Johnston – April 17 [back to top]
Frames of Mind is a monthly film event utilizing film and video to promote professional and community education on issues pertaining to mental health and illness presented by Pacific Cinémathèque and the UBC Department of Psychiatry. Sundance award-winning The Devil and Daniel Johnston is a portrait of a brilliant indie-rock cult figure and cartoonist who has had a life marked by wild fluctuations, numerous downward spirals, and periodic respites from his severe mental illness (he's been diagnosed with manic depression). Includes a post-screening discussion with Dr. Harry Karlinsky, Director of Continuing Medical Education and Professional Development, Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia and Luke Meat, CiTR 101.9FM Music Director. 7:30pm at Pacific Cinémathèque, 1131 Howe Street, Vancouver. Tickets: $8.50 regular; $7 for students and seniors. Eligible for 1.0 hour Section 1 of Royal College's Maintenance of Certification Program. View the flyer or call (604) 822-7610 for more information.

MDA Education Evening – Men & Depression - April 20 [back to top]
Join the Mood Disorders Association of BC (MDA) for our free monthly Education Evening for the community. Our guest speaker, Mr. Glen Smith, an MDA member, will share his personal story of living with a mental illness and his addiction recovery, followed by a question and answer period. 7:00pm at Sunrise Hall, 1950 Windermere Street, East Vancouver. The hall is wheelchair accessible. Call (604) 873-0103 or email mdabc@telus.net for more information.

Free Performance of Victoria Maxwell’s “Crazy For Life” in Gibsons – May 2 [back to top]
Catch this free performance of the hit stage play that takes a ‘naked’ look at mental illness at Gibsons Heritage Playhouse on the Sunshine Coast. Imagine: you’ve landed in the psych ward and been told you have a mental illness. That’s the subject of ‘Crazy for Life’, Victoria Maxwell’s award winning solo show about bipolar disorder, anxiety and psychosis. With vivid detail and irreverent humour, this high-energy play takes you ‘round the bend, and back again: from meditation groups to hospital psych wards, from black depressions to manic highs and psychedelic psychoses. 7:30pm at Gibsons Heritage Playhouse, 662 North Rd.,Gibsons BC. Film cameras will be present and reservations are necessary. Seating is limited. Please email Diedra Goodwin at deegoodwin@dccnet.com to reserve your seats. For more info please visit www.victoriamaxwell.com and www.heritageplayhouse.com.

Symposium - Alcohol: Estimating Benefits and Harms – May 4 [back to top]
Centre for Addictions Research of BC and BC Mental Health and Addictions Research Network is brining together drug and alcohol researchers from around the world for a free, public research symposium on the harms and benefits of alcohol. Topics include an evaluation of studies of alcohol and cardiac health, a critique of measuring drinking behaviour in epidemiological studies, health costs and benefits of alcohol in Canada and Australia, and Australia’s National Indicators Project. 1:30pm – 4:30pm at the Pacific Ballrooom, Fairmont Hotel, Vancouver. For more information visit www.carbc.uvic.ca.

Helping the Helper Non-profit Management Workshops [back to top]
This series of workshops, sponsored by Coast Capital Savings and The Centre for Non Profit Management in partnership with the University of Victoria's Centre for Public Sector Studies, is designed to help non-profit organizations increase their resourcefulness and adapt to new demands and opportunities in the marketplace. The workshops are held 8:30am – 4:30pm in the Lower Mainland (Executive Hotel & Conference Centre, 4201 Lougheed Highway, Burnaby) and Vancouver Island (Dunsmuir Lodge, Room 150, 1515 McTavish Road, Sidney). Workshop fees: $60 each. Coast Capital Savings member and group rates available. Details and registration at www.coastcapitalsavings.com or 1-866-760-2005.
April 25 - Vancouver Island – Managing Talent with an Eye to The Future
April 27 - Lower Mainland – Managing Talent with an Eye to The Future
May 16 - Vancouver Island – Brandstorming: The Not-for-Profit Branding Studio
May 18 - Lower Mainland – Brandstorming: The Not-for-Profit Branding Studio

Mental Health and The Justice System Across the Lifespan – April 6 + 7 [back to top]
A unique conference addressing current topics in Youth and Adult Forensic Psychiatry, with plenary speakers Robert Har, PhD on "Mental Health and the Justice System Across the Lifespan," and Thomas Grisso, PhD on "Progress and Perils in the Juvenile Justice/Mental Health Movement," and panel presentation on "The Psychological Aspects of Murder," and "Recent Changes to the Canadian Criminal Code." At The Coast Plaza Hotel & Suites, Vancouver. Full conference fee: $375; 1 Day $275. Early bird and student rates available. View the PDF format brochure and registration form at www.bcmhas.ca.

Integrating Treatment for Substance Use, Mental Health Problems, and Trauma in Women – May 10 [back to top]
This Justice Institute of BC (JIBC) course provides an overview of current knowledge about the links between the experience of violence and trauma, mental health problems, and substance use problems in women. It offers principles and promising practices arising from programming designed for women facing these connected concerns. The course introduces a range of research and program evaluation findings and program resources that will (1) support further study and application of relevant strategies, and (2) link efforts to make services “trauma-informed” to key treatment approaches and concepts raised in other courses. At 715 McBride Boulevard, New Westminster. Course fee: $140; Group rate: $125. For more information visit www.jibc.bc.ca/clcl or call Caroline White at (604)528-5620. To register contact (604) 528-5590 or 1-877-528-5592.

Silent Men, Angry Women: Exploring How Therapists Can Address Common Gender Issues in Relationships – May 13 [back to top]
This six-hour workshop uses a combination of didactic methods, multimedia presentation, hands-on exercises and discussion to help participants understand how gender issues impact men and women in inimate relationships. Presented by Fredric Rabinowitz, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology and the Assistant Academic Dean at the University of Redlands. 8:30am – 4:30pm at St. Johns College, UBC, 2111 Lower Mall. Conference fee: $208.65. Early bird, British Columbia Psychological Association (BCPA) Member and Affiliate, and student rates available. Early bird registration deadline April 14. Qualifies for 6 hours of BCPA Continuing Education credits. For more information or to register visit www.psychologists.bc.ca or call (604) 730-0501.

Fostering Hope Self Abuse Workshop - May 31 [back to top]
This Self Abuse Finally Ends BC (S.A.F.E.) workshop is offered to those individuals and organizations who care about people who self-abuse and wish to learn how to help them change their behaviors. The purpose of this workshop is to create greater awareness and understanding of self-abusive behaviours, in order to help those who self-harm. 8:30 am – 3:00 pm at 1260 Howe St., Vancouver. Workshop fee: $100, Student rate $75, with workbook $175. For more information or to register contact Mary Graham at (604) 669-6552 or email safebc@yahoo.ca.

Working Together to Educate Families Conference – April 29 [back to top]
Speakers include Dr. Sean Flynn, staff psychiatrist, Riverview hospital, Dr. Debbie Thompson, FHA pharmacist, Kim Calasaterri, VCH manager rehabilitation and recovery. Breakout sessions on concurrent disorders, planning for the future, parental identity, confidentiality. 9:00am – 5:00pm at the Detwiller Pavilion, 2255 Wesbrook Mall, UBC. Admission by donation. Sponsored by families, Mood Disorders Association, British Columbia Schizophrenia Society (BCSS) Vancouver-Richmond branch, Vancouver Mental Health Services (VMHS), and BC Partners for Mental Health and Addictions Information. For more information contact Carolina Romero, BCSS Vancouver-Richmond Coordinator (604) 247-1884 or Otto Lim, Project Lead Family Support & Involvement VMHS (604) 708-5289.

Late Adolescents and Adults with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Conference - May 4 - 6 [back to top]
Navigating the Rapids: Doing What Works in Practice will focus on improving quality of life for adults affected by FASD by presenting innovative approaches used by practitioners in a variety of settings while working directly with affected individuals, their families and support systems. Navigating the Rapids will provide conference participants with the tools necessary to begin designing optimal environments for the social, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being of individuals with FASD. At The Coast Hotel and Conference Centre in Vancouver. Conference fees: Full program $485. Student, early bird and individual day rates available. For more information, view the PDF flyer at www.interprofessional.ubc.ca or contact Leanne Fuhr at ipinfo@interchange.ubc.ca or (604) 822-2801.

Caring for Complex Clients Conference – May 5 [back to top]
This Mental Health Conference is presented by Vancouver Acute and Community Mental Health Services, and is accredited group learning activity as defined by the Maintenance of Certification Program of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Learning objectives are to learn skills for assessing complex clients in the emergency psychiatric setting, to understand the interaction between mental illness and substance abuse, and to learn specific treatment and management strategies for clients with complex mental health addiction and medical problems. Target audience is multidisciplinary staff of Vancouver Acute, Community and Rehabilitation Mental Health Services, however health professionals from other regions, consumers and family caregivers are welcome. Registration fee is $45 and includes continental breakfast and lunch. 8:00am – 4:00pm at Plaza 500 Hotel, 500 West 12th Avenue Vancouver. For more information call (604) 875-4812.

Supporting Protecting, Intervening and Rehabilitating Young People - May 9 [back to top]
Hosted by the Justice Institute of BC (JIBC), this unique applied research symposium focused on new and emerging issues regarding young people from justice and public safety perspectives will feature five panel presentations featuring the work of JIBC faculty, external associates and leading researchers in the justice and public safety fields. Topics addressed will include links between child abuse and youth homelessness, supporting commercially sexually exploited youth, treating juvenile fire setters, graffiti as a predictor of juvenile offending, working with adolescent sex offenders, supporting mentally challenged youth in the court system. 9:00am – 4:00pm at 715 McBride Boulevard, New Westminster. Fee: $25. For more information visit www.jibc.bc.ca/clcl or call (604)528-5608. To register contact (604) 528-5590 or 1-877-528-5592.

7th Annual National Shared Mental Health Care Conference in Calgary - May 11 – 13 [back to top]
Calgary Health Region, Chinook Health Region and Canadian Collaborative Mental Health Initiative are proud to host the 7th Annual National Shared Mental Health Care Conference in beautiful Calgary, Alberta. The conference will bring together hundreds of primary care and mental health professionals including psychiatrists, family physicians, clinical leaders, program developers, policy makers, funders, clinicians (social workers, psychologists, nurses, pharmacists, dietitians, occupational therapists), consumers, families and caregivers from across Canada and abroad. See www.shared-care.ca for details.

Family and Friend Caregiver Forum 2006 – May 13 [back to top]
This free one-day forum for unpaid caregivers looking after a friend or family member who is elderly, chronically ill or living with a disability features inspirational keynote speaker Pat Stamples on “Comfort and Care for Caregivers.” Includes workshops on navigating the healthcare system, living daily in the company of a person with dementia, and advocacy. 9:00am – 5:00pm at the Plaza 500 Hotel, 500 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver. This free event is presented by Caregivers Association of British Columbia (CABC) in partnership with Vancouver Coastal Health Authority Caregiver Support Program and Alzheimer Society of British Columbia. For more information or to register contact (604) 877-4683 or email caregiversupport@vch.ca.

Western Regional Clubhouse Conference in Nanaimo – May 17 – 19 [back to top]
The 3rd Western Canadian Clubhouse Conference, "Connecting on the Coast," sponsored by the British Columbia Network of Clubhouses, will be held in Nanaimo, BC at the historical Best Western Dorchester, overlooking Nanaimo Harbour. All clubhouses, aspiring clubhouses, clubhouse-like programs, and other interested parties are encouraged to attend. For more information, please contact Heather Harris at (250) 716-8823 or phoenixcentre@shaw.ca.

Art & Science of Psychotherapy Conference – May 24 – 27 [back to top]
Jack Hirose & Associates Inc. presents a conference with the finest mentors and teachers offering state-of-the-art treatment techniques for depression, anxiety disorders, habits and addictions, eating disorders, marital/relationship problems, professional burnout and more. 8:30am – 5:00pm at the Best Western Richmond Inn Hotel a& Conference Centre, 7551 Westminster Hwy, Richmond, BC. Conference fees: 1 Day: $190; 2 Days: $310; 3 Days: $410. For more information, visit www.jackhirose.com.

What Determines the Public's Health - CPHA Annual Conference – May 28 - 31 [back to top]
The Canadian Population Health Association's (CPHA) 97th Annual Conference will explore the many factors – such as education, income, ethnicity and gender and their interaction over time – that influence the health of individuals, communities, populations and whole societies. This conference is geared towards public health practitioners, policy-makers, and researchers from a range of disciplines and sectors. At the Fairmont Hotel, Vancouver. Full 4-Day registration: $490. Daily, First-Time Attendee, Student and Early Bird Rates available. Early Bird registration deadline is April 10. Visit www.cpha.ca for more information.

David Berman Memorial Concurrent Disorders Conference – May 29 – 31 [back to top]
This conference is designed to provide clinicians and delegates with advanced training in concurrent disorders, including in-depth exploration of integrated treatment. The conference will take place at the Coast Plaza Hotel and Suites at Stanley Park, Vancouver. Full 3-Day Conference Fee: $450. Early Bird, Student, and Daily Rates available. Early Bird registration closes April 21. More information at www.interprofessional.ubc.ca.

DISCLAIMER
This newsletter contains information collected from a wide variety of sources, individuals and organizations which we consider reliable. However the content of the news delivered as well as referred to does not necessarily represent the official view of CMHA, BC Division. Under no circumstances shall CMHA, its employees, directors, volunteers, or the authors of information provided in this newsletter, be liable for damages, losses, demands, or claims.

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The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), BC Division is a provincial non-profit charitable organization which has, for the past 50 years in BC, been concerned with promoting the mental health of all British Columbians and changing the way we view and treat mental illness in BC. We are part of a national association with over 80 years of experience in Canada. CMHA staff and volunteers focus on four major responsibilities: policy, public education, community-based research, and mental health service and support resources. We are located at: 1200-1111 Melville St., Vancouver BC, V6E 3V6 Phone: 604-688-3234 or 1-800-555-8222 (free within BC); Fax: 604-688-3236; General email: info@cmha.bc.ca; MIND MATTERS email:mindmatters@cmha.bc.ca; Web: www.cmha.bc.ca