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Welcome to MIND MATTERS, an electronic newsletter produced by the Canadian Mental Health Association's BC Division office (CMHA) and delivered monthly to your mailbox. In MIND MATTERS, we provide new resources and programs offered by CMHA BC Division, 20 CMHA branches across BC and news from partner agencies and like-minded organizations committed to the mental health of British Columbians.

MIND MATTERS is completely free and your e-mail address is not shared with any third party nor is it used for other purposes other than delivering the e-newsletter. If you would like to know more about our efforts to ensure your privacy is maintained, please contact our office. Mind Matters wouldn't be possible without support from donors and the help of gaming revenue from the Province of British Columbia.

CMHA NEWS:

CMHA BC's Annual General Meeting and Awards Celebration - September 12
Book a Mental Health Workshop for Healthy Workplace Month - September 29 to October 26
Mental Health Works Offers Free Workshops for Small to Medium-sized Businesses
Beyond the Blues: Depression Anxiety Education and Screening Day - October 9
Thank You to Everyone Who Participated in the Mind Matters Survey
CMHA National Announces Award Winners at Annual Conference
CMHA Kelowna to Operate Supportive Housing
CMHA Vancouver/Burnaby Annual General Meeting - September 8
CMHA Delta Offers Support Group for People with OCD
CMHA - MDA Chinese Emotional Health Support Groups
Vancouver/Burnaby Branch Special Events

FEATURED ARTICLE:

Back to School: Tips for Parents of Young Kids

CANADIAN RESEARCH:

National Study Shows Deficits in BC's Mental Health System
Strong Stigma Still Surrounds Mental Illness
Suicide's Genetic Key is Examined
Antipsychotic Drugs May Cause Serious Adverse Reactions in Those with Dementia
Prenatal Stress Has Long-term Effects on Children
Awareness of Cultural Differences Key to the Diagnosis of Depression
Patient Emergency Status Subjective to Psychiatrist
Survey Shows Increased Employment Rates for People with Disabilities

RESEARCH FROM AROUND THE WORLD:

Barriers to Education for People with Mental Health Issues
Longer Maternity Leave Associated with Fewer Symptoms of Depression
Minority Women Prefer Faith and Counselling Over Medication
Psychotherapy on the Decline in US
Rate of Homicide by People With Mental Health Problems Falling in UK

NEW PROGRAMS AND RESOURCES:

Mental Health Commission of Canada Chair Speaks on Homelessness and Mental Illness in Vancouver
Kelty Resource Centre for Children and Youth
Children's Quarterly Focuses on Bipolar Disorder
EMOTIONS Book and CD Teach Emotional Intelligence to Children
YouthSpace - Chat Counselling and Web Forums for Youth
Network Magazine Explores Mental Health and the Built Environment
Free Webcast: Stigma Buster Training
Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) Webinar for Practitioners
Evidence-based Mental Health Practices
Guidelines for Recognizing Mental Health Needs in Primary Care
Homelessness Resource Centre for Service Providers

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Canadian Government Commits $130 Million to Mental Health Commission
Action-oriented Mental Health Research Given $4.4 Million Boost
The Spirit of Hope Award Calls for Nominations - Deadline September 12
Touched by Fire Gallery Show Calls for Entries - Deadline September 19
Reasons to Live Project Seeks Stories of Those Who Choose to Live
Schizophrenia Society of Canada Conducting Quality of Life Survey
Anti-Psychotic Drugs Study Looking for Participants
Genetic Counselling Study Looking for Participants
Mental health and Pregnancy Study Looking for Participants
Stigma Study Looking for Family Members
BC Psychological Association Awards Calls for Nominations - Deadline September 30
Translation of Knowledge Grants
Moving Mental Health into the Mainstream Conference Calls for Papers - Deadline September 30

PUBLIC EDUCATION EVENTS:

Mental Illness Awareness Week - October 5 - 11
Movie Mondays in Victoria
Comox Valley Mental Health and Wellness Education Series
World Suicide Prevention Day - September 10
Making Connections Social Group - Starts September 12
MDA of BC Education Evening - Bipolar Disorder Update - September 18
Reach Out Youth Concert Tour Comes to Northern BC - September 24 - October 4
Now Who's Crazy Now? - October 2 - 5
Beyond the Blues: Depression Anxiety Education and Screening Day - October 9
Margaret Trudeau Speaks about Her Journey through Mental Illness - October 9
Managing to Manage Workplace Stress: Make Your Workplace Great! - October 23
The Struggle to Juggle: Top Stress Management Strategies for Work and Home! - October 23

COURSES AND WORKSHOPS:

Mental Health Works Workshops for Workplaces
Online Workshops Help you Take Care of a Loved One with a Disability
Early Neglect and Trauma, New Westminster - September 12
Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) - September 13 to October 25
Family Matters: Transforming Families from Addiction to Healing, Abbotsford - September 18
My Tween and Me: a Training Program for Parents - September 17-19
Legal Issues in Mental Health - September 29

CONFERENCES:

CMHA NEWS

CMHA BC's Annual General Meeting and Awards Celebration - September 12 [back to top]
CMHA BC Division invites you to join us at our Annual General Meeting where you will hear from Dr. Patrick McGrath from Dalhousie University's Family Help program. We will also be revealing results of the CMHA BC Division Board election, as well as awarding the winners of the Lorne Fraser Educational Fund, presented by Lorne Fraser himself. The event will begin at 4pm at the Best Western Sands by the Sea, Vancouver. Please RSVP to Alex by Monday, Sept. 8 by phone at 604-688-3234 ext. 233 or 1-800-555-8222 or email at info@cmha.bc.ca. View the poster or visit www.cmha.bc.ca for more details.

Book a Mental Health Workshop for Healthy Workplace Month - September 29 to October 26 [back to top]
Healthy Workplace Month is coming up! This is a great time to bring in Mental Health Works speakers! Empower your staff by educating them on the complex issues surrounding mental health in the workplace and some tested and successful strategies for dealing with the challenging situations. Incorporate CMHA's Mental Health Works training as part of your Healthy Workplace Month's events. Visit www.healthyworkplacemonth.ca for more details. Learn more about Mental Health Works workshops at www.mentalhealthworks.ca or contact Margaret Tebbutt at 1-800-555-8222 or mentalhealthworks@cmha.bc.ca

Mental Health Works Offers Free Workshops for Small to Medium-sized Businesses [back to top]
CMHA is pleased to offer your local Chamber a unique opportunity to provide your members with an award-winning Mental Health Works presentation on Issues & Solutions: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace. The 1.5 hour presentation will provide your members with practical strategies on how to identify and address mental health issues, including emotional distress and burnout with employees through an engaging, multi-media presentation, as well as useful information and resources for effective performance management when mental health or addiction is a concern. There must be 50 participants or more at each session - you can partner with neighbouring Chambers or open it up to non-members. Sessions must be held prior to September 2009. This presentation is endorsed by the Mental Health Commission of Canada and is made possible through the support of The Great-West Life Assurance Company and the Great-West Life Centre for Mental Health in the Workplace. For more information or to book a workshop contact Margaret Tebbutt at 1-800-555-8222 or mentalhealthworks@cmha.bc.ca.

Beyond the Blues: Depression Anxiety Education and Screening Day - October 9 [back to top]
Beyond the Blues: Depression Anxiety Education and Screening Day is coordinated annually in October during the first Thursday of Mental Illness Awareness Week by CMHA BC Division on behalf of the BC Partners for Mental Health and Addictions Information. Beyond the Blues is an opportunity to learn more about these treatable conditions, complete a brief questionnaire, speak one-on-one with a clinician, and find out about the range of community resources available to help. Many sites also feature workshops, videos, multilingual information and screenings, and risky drinking checkups. Learn more at www.heretohelp.bc.ca/events.

Thank You to Everyone Who Participated in the Mind Matters Survey [back to top]
Congratulations to the winner of the draw for a $75 gift certificate and thank you to our subscribers for taking the time to fill out our Mind Matters survey. We look forward using your valuable feedback to improve Mind Matters. Watch for updates later in the fall! If you missed the survey, comments, suggestions, or e-news submissions are always welcome at mindmatters@cmha.bc.ca.

CMHA National Announces Award Winners at Annual Conference [back to top]
Commemorating 100 years of the mental health movement in Canada, this year's annual national conference Making Waves for Change was hosted by CMHA Nova Scotia in Halifax on August 22 and 23. This year's conference celebrated the past, present and future of mental health in Canada, and concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing the outstanding efforts of individuals and organizations who exemplify the vision and mission of CMHA. This year's Media Award went to BC's Shelagh Rogers and producer Phillip Ditchburn for A Cruel Confusion, a radio mental health series that aired on Sounds Like Canada on CBC Radio One in Vancouver. The Media Award, inaugurated in 1991, honours representatives in the media who have made outstanding contributions to the coverage of mental health issues in Canada. For a full list of winners, visit www.cmha.ca.

CMHA Kelowna to Operate Supportive Housing [back to top]
CMHA Kelowna Branch and the John Howard Society of the Central and South Okanagan (JHSCSO) have been selected to develop and operate two new supportive housing developments in Kelowna. Provincial funding of approximately $30 million will help create up to 140 supportive housing units on three city-owned properties. These new developments are designed to address core gaps in the range of existing housing and support services for those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in Kelowna. The Boyce Crescent housing development will be operated by CMHA, and will contain between 30 and 40 units of short-term, triage housing with support services to allow people to stabilize their lives before moving into more stable supportive housing. The Rutland Road North development will be operated by JHSCSO, and will have 49 units of longer-term, transitional housing. The Province's contribution to pay for predevelopment costs is part of the Provincial Homelessness Initiative. Read "Province Funds Development of Local Supportive Housing" at www.bchousing.org.

CMHA Vancouver/Burnaby Annual General Meeting - September 8 [back to top]
CMHA Vancouver/Burnaby Branch's AGM is taking place Monday, Sept. 8 at 5:30pm at the beautiful Van Dusen Gardens in Vancouver. CMHA will discuss what the agency has accomplished in the past year. There will be tasty food and beverages, entertainment as well as a presentation on their various programs. For more information, call 604-812-3418.

CMHA Delta Offers Support Group for People with OCD [back to top]
CMHA Delta offers a free, facilitated group for people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorders as well as friends and family. The group meets on the first Wednesday of each month, from 7-9 pm at North Delta Health Building, Unit 129, 6345 120th St. Call 604-943-1878 for more information.

CMHA - MDA Chinese Emotional Health Support Groups [back to top]
Hosted by CMHA and Mood Disorders Association (MDA), these support groups meet once a month for a wide range of activities such as presentations on improving emotional health and group sharing. Those in the support group share experiences of living with depression or overcoming depression, and provide mutual support. Cost: Free. See below for times and locations.
CMHA Vancouver-Burnaby - The group meets the second Monday of every month from 7-9 pm at 175 West Broadway, Vancouver. Contact Stella at 604-872-4902 or 604-603-0332 or stella.lee.vb@vb.cmha.bc.ca to register.
CMHA Richmond - The group meets the third Saturday of every month at Room 340, 7000 Granville Road, Richmond. Contact Hui Ling at 604-276-8834 or Email: hwakely@cmha-rmd.com to register.

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.
September 5 - Build Your Own Sundaes
September 8 - CMHA Vancouver/Burnaby Branch Annual General Meeting
September 15 - Harrison Sandcastle Competition
September 22 - Castle Fun Park
September 26 - Vancouver International Film Festival

BACK TO SCHOOL: TIPS FOR PARENTS OF YOUNG KIDS
Back to school can be tough. Here are some tips to help manage the stress.

Routines
Going to school means getting into new routines with no more late nights or late mornings.

• Find a set bed-time that lets your kids feel well-rested in the morning
• Practice the back to school routine a few times before the first day (e.g., go to bed, get up, dress, eat breakfast, brush teeth, and be out the door by 8am).
• Have your child help prepare what you can the night before (pick out clothes, pack healthy lunch your child likes, pack school bag, etc).
• Talk to your child's school and find out what the routines are. Help your child to understand what is expected – practice new or difficult skills at home before school starts.

Focus on the Positives
Going back to school is easier for everyone if a child has something to look forward to.

• Purchasing school supplies or clothes with your child is a good way to help your son or daughter become more enthusiastic about starting a new school year.
• Check with your school to find out what your child will need this year.
• Try to help your child get excited about school in other ways (e.g., see friends they haven't seen all summer, tell a favourite teacher about their summer vacation).
• Talk to your child about the fun activities he or she will get to do and the new friends they will make.

New People and Situations
The new school year brings a new classroom setting, with a different teacher and new classmates. When kids know what to expect things are less scary for them.

• Introducing your child to one or more of his or her classmates ahead of time will ensure making friends is a little easier and less scary (your school may help you connect to other classmates)
• Visit the school and the teacher with your child. Ask the teacher to explain the school day to your child, and if possible ask to be shown around the classroom.
• Give your child some ice-breakers that can be shared such as a healthy snack or activity (e.g., marbles or sidewalk chalk if your school allows them).
• Find out if your child's school has a buddy or mentor system.

Performance Anxiety and Other Worries
Kids can have real worries about starting school. Attending school may be the first time your child experiences clear pressure to do well.

• Respond to signs of anxiety by talking to your child about school concerns
• Make time to listen when kids want to talk - review your child's worries one at a time and help them problem solve so they don't become overwhelmed
• Try not to add to your child's pressures unnecessarily
• Help your child to understand that no one is good at everything – both parents and kids do better at some things than others.
• Be involved with school related activities or events - praise your child for positive efforts even if you don't see the results yet.

Gradual Entry
This is a method parents often use when getting children used to a new day care but it can also work with children who are extremely fearful of school. You will need to talk about this idea with your child's teacher to see if your school can accommodate this approach.

• Examples of gradual entry include staying with your child for part or all of the first day or first few days. Then you gradually stay at school with your child a shorter and shorter amount of time.
• For some kids gradual entry may only take one or two days. For others it may take a couple of weeks. Let your child be the guide, as every child is different.
• Some children are happiest if mom or dad always stays while they hang up their jacket and put their bag away before leaving for the day.
• Tell your child in advance how long you will stay and then stick to your plan.

Bullying
Bullying at school is a serious problem and can, in extreme cases, result in injury or even death. If you suspect that your child is being bullied...

• Reassure your child that you and the teacher will support him or her.
• Talk to the teacher or person in charge.
• Follow up on any action taken and remain involved in the decision making process. Check in often with your son or daughter about how things are going.
• Keep in mind children may be reluctant to talk due to fear of embarrassment or further harm.
• Sometimes problems with going back to school don't go away on their own and may reflect a health problem. Talk to your family physician or health professional about any problems – especially if they are severe or do not resolve on their own after the first few weeks back.

For a PDF version of this article, or for tips for parents of teens, visit www.heretohelp.bc.ca.

CANADIAN RESEARCH

National Study Shows Deficits in BC's Mental Health System [back to top]
When mental health patients are released from hospital in BC, they're more likely to be back in a hospital bed within 30 days than patients in all but one Canadian province. Only Prince Edward Island, with a 30-day readmission rate of 11.7%, is higher than BC's 10.20%. Both exceed the national rate of 9.23%, says a study by the Canadian Institute for Health Information. At the one-year mark, almost a third of BC mental health patients are back in hospital. The national one-year readmission rate is 22.9%. Experts see short hospital stays and fast discharges as the single biggest cause of readmissions. The average length of stay in a general hospital for a patient diagnosed with mental illness decreased by 55% over five years, from 36 days in 2000-2001 to 16 days in 2005-2006. They also attribute the problem to an overtaxed mental health system and a severe shortage of specialized treatment facilities and psychiatric beds. Read "National study has bad news for BC's mental health system" at www.canada.com.

Strong Stigma Still Surrounds Mental Illness [back to top]
Canadian attitudes toward mental illness are a cause for concern suggests the Canadian Medical Association's 8th annual Report Card on Health Care. Of the 1,002 Canadians surveyed to measure attitudes and experiences with the health-care system, almost half (46%) thought people use the term mental illness as an excuse for bad behaviour. One in four Canadians are fearful of being around those who suffer from serious mental illness and half of Canadians would tell friends or coworkers that they have a family member with a mental illness, compared to 72% for a diagnosis of cancer or 68% for diabetes. Most Canadians (60%) would be unlikely to go to a family doctor with a mental illness, and 58% would shy away from hiring a lawyer, child-care worker or financial adviser with the illness. Interestingly, about 60% of Canadians agree the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness is underfunded, and 72% agree it should be on a par with funding for diseases such as cancer and diabetes. Read "Stigma of mental illness pervasive: CMA head" at www.theglobeandmail.com.

Suicide's Genetic Key is Examined [back to top]
Canadian researchers may have discovered the underlying cause that leads some people to commit suicide or suffer major depression. After examining the brains of people who committed suicide, a team of scientists discovered an abundance of protein affecting a particular gene that controls anxiety and stress compared with the brains of people who had died of heart attacks or other natural causes. The researchers believe that the abundance of this protein causes the stress coping gene to shut down and malfunction, inhibiting the individual's ability to handle stress and cope with anxiety. The researchers aren't sure why some people have higher levels of the protein, but they believe it is somehow linked to stressful life events and how people may cope with them. The discovery may lead to major breakthroughs in treatment of such disorders. Read "Suicide's Genetic Key is Discovered" at www.shns.com.

Antipsychotic Drugs May Cause Serious Adverse Reactions in Those with Dementia [back to top]
Older adults with dementia who are prescribed antipsychotic drugs for short-term use have an increased risk of experiencing a hospitalization or dying, according to a study in the Archives of Internal Medicine. The researchers examined the medical records of older adults living in the community and nursing home residents during their first month drug therapy. The authors found that among the community-living older adults, those using atypical antipsychotics were 3.2 times more likely to die or be hospitalized during the 30-day follow-up period than those who received no antipsychotic therapy. Those who received conventional antipsychotic medications were 3.8 times more likely. A similar, though less-pronounced pattern was found in the group of nursing home residents. The authors stress that the results of their study suggest that such drugs should always be prescribed with caution, even in cases of short-term therapy. If you are concerned about your medication, please consult your physician. See "Antipsychotic Therapy and Short-Term Serious Events in Older Adults with Dementia," at archinte.ama-assn.org.

Prenatal Stress Has Long-term Effects on Children [back to top]
A new study shows exposure to prenatal maternal stress due to a natural disaster can have long-term negative impacts on the intelligence and language development of children. The study, to be published in the September issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, looked at 89 children whose mothers were pregnant during the January 1998 ice storm in Quebec. The research suggests that at five and a half years of age the children whose mothers experienced high levels of stress during the ice storm had significantly lower scores in IQ tests and language tests compared to children of mothers exposed to lower levels of stress. The researchers also note that the women's subjective reaction to the ice storm was not relevant to the outcome for their babies. Even when the mothers perceived the experience of the ice storm to have been positive (because they had many guests, for example, or were off work), the additional stresses on the women's physiologies seems to have been detrimental to the subsequent development of their fetuses. Read "Prenatal stress has long-term effects on children" at www.canada.com.

Awareness of Cultural Differences Key to the Diagnosis of Depression [back to top]
Being aware of cultural differences should help doctors better diagnose depression in Chinese and other East Asian patients who tend to emphasize physical complaints and minimize psychological symptoms, researchers suggest. In a study that compared two groups of patients assessed for depression in outpatient clinics - one in Changsha, China, and the other in Toronto - researchers found that the Chinese focused more on physical symptoms common to the condition, such as fatigue, low energy and headaches. The Canadian patients, in contrast, were more apt to complain of psychological aspects of depression, including feelings of sadness, guilt and worthlessness. The collaborative study by Canadian and Chinese scientists, recently published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology, involved more than 200 participants from the two countries, who were assessed for depression using similar diagnostic methods. The researchers attribute the emphasis put on physical symptoms by Chinese patients to the stigma associated with mental illness in Chinese culture. Read "Awareness of cultural issues key in diagnosing depression: study" at www.cbc.ca.

Patient Emergency Status Subjective to Psychiatrist [back to top]
Psychiatrists make subjective decisions when determining the urgency of care required for a person presenting to the emergency department with a mental health complaint, according to the findings of a recent Quebec study. Researchers analyzed eight years of psychiatrist records (22,000 emergency visits) at four psychiatric emergency services. 57% percent of visits were identified by psychiatrists as both urgent (requiring immediate attention) and pertinent (involving the presence of a psychiatric disorder). Another 30% of visits were considered to be pertinent, but not urgent, while only 13% were considered to be neither urgent nor pertinent. The study identified several factors that influence a psychiatrist's perceptions of immediacy and relevance. For instance, "non-urgent" labels were more commonly applied when alternative services were rapidly available. Similarly, visits by people experiencing psychosis were frequently considered to be pertinent and urgent, while visits diagnosed as related to anxiety or depression were more frequently labelled pertinent but not urgent. When mentions of suicide or behavioural disturbances were accompanied by substance use or severe personality factors, visits were often perceived to be neither urgent nor pertinent. See "A Qualitative Study of a Psychiatric Emergency," in the International Journal of Mental Health Systems at www.ijmhs.com.

Survey Shows Increased Employment Rates for People with Disabilities [back to top]
The 2006 Participation and Activity Limitation Survey (PALS) showed an increase in employment rates for people with disabilities in Canada. This national survey uses census data to track activity limitations in 10 different disability areas, including mental illness. The labour market data collected by the survey are used to plan services and programs required by adults 15 to 64 years old with disabilities to participate fully in society. Employment rates for people with disabilities rose between 2001 and 2006, narrowing the employment gap between persons with disabilities and those without. While more people with disabilities in every category were employed at a greater rate than was recorded in the 2001 survey, people with mental health issues show the second highest unemployment rate among all disability groups. Of those employed, the work accommodation that was most requested was a reduction in work hours.
See "Participation and Activity Limitation Survey of 2006: Labour Force Experience of People with Disabilities in Canada," at www.statcan.ca.

RESEARCH FROM AROUND THE WORLD

Barriers to Education for People with Mental Health Issues [back to top]
A survey of 120 people with mental health disabilities from a midwestern mental health centre in the United States found that the top three barriers to educational attainment are the same for them as for people without a mental illness, according to a study published in a recent issue of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal. The most common disorders among the participants were schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression. The results showed that only 12% had earned a post-secondary credential. Of those who had not completed high school, over half wanted to go back to school. The top three barriers to education that were documented were the same as those found among the general population and included inability to access financial aid, transportation issues, and lack of study skills. The next three barriers of significance were specific to their disability: ability to manage stress, the need for an educational coach, and help coordinating mental health and academic services. See "The Educational Goals of People with Psychiatric Disabilities," at prj.metapress.com.
>> Meet this year's winners of the Lorne Fraser Educational Bursaries at CMHA BC Division's Annual General Meeting and Awards Celebration on September 12 in Vancouver. Learn more at www.cmha.bc.ca.

Longer Maternity Leave Associated with Fewer Symptoms of Depression [back to top]
New mothers who take a longer maternity leave are less likely to experience depression, according to a study of 2,496 new mothers who were working prior to childbirth and who returned to work after a maternity leave. The study from the National Bureau of Economic Research also found the total number of weeks of paid leave also had a beneficial effect. The average length of maternity leave in the study sample was nine weeks. The authors argue that doubling that leave to 18 weeks, which is closer to the length of maternity leave in Europe, would reduce symptoms of depression in mothers by about 5%, and reduce severe depression by 1%. The authors also found that married mothers whose spouses did not take paternal leave experienced higher levels of depressive symptoms, although the actual length of the spouse's leave did not have an effect. See "Family Leave after Childbirth and the Health of New Mothers," at www.nber.org/papers/w14156.pdf.

Minority Women Prefer Faith and Counselling Over Medication [back to top]
Compared to their white counterparts, Black and Latina women in the United States are less likely to receive mental health services when needed, according to a recent study in Archives of Women's Mental Health. Researchers conducted one-on-one surveys to explore mental health treatment preferences among 1,893 low-income immigrant and American-born Black, white and Latina women. American-born whites were the most likely to be in mental health treatment. While 81% of the participants believed that individual counselling would assist them in working through emotional issues, ethnic minorities were more likely to endorse this form of treatment than their white counterparts. Similarly, 82% felt that their faith was the most helpful tool for them when confronting emotional crises. 57% of the white women involved in this study felt that medication would be helpful when experiencing emotional conflicts, but only 39% of immigrant-Latina women, 34% of US-born Black women and 19% of African women felt that medication would be useful for them during times of emotional crises. See "Mental Health Care Preferences among Low-Income and Minority Women," at www.springerlink.com.

Psychotherapy on the Decline in US [back to top]
A new study finds a significant decline in psychotherapy practised by US psychiatrists. The expanded use of pills and insurance policies that favour short office visits are among the reasons, said lead author Dr. Ramin Mojtabai of Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore. Today's psychiatrists are reimbursed by insurance companies at a lower rate for a 45-minute psychotherapy visit than for three 15-minute medication visits, he explained. His study found that the percentage of patients' visits to psychiatrists for psychotherapy, or talk therapy, fell from 44% in 1996-97 to 29% in 2004-05. The percentage of psychiatrists using psychotherapy with all their patients also dropped, from about 19% to 11%. Psychiatrists who provided talk therapy to everyone had more patients who paid out of pocket compared to those doctors who provided talk therapy less often. And they prescribed fewer pills. This is a shame since a combination of talk therapy and medications yields the best treatment outcomes. This is disconcerting to many service providers, particularly as other evidence suggests that a combination of medication and talk tharapies create the best outcomes for many patients. Read "Psychotherapy gives way to drugs: US study" at www.cbc.ca.
>> Read the issue of Visions journal on Medications and their role in recovery from mental or substance use disorders at heretohelp.bc.ca.

Rate of Homicide by People With Mental Health Problems Falling in UK [back to top]
The number of killings by people with mental health problems in England and Wales has fallen by two-thirds in the last 30 years, a study in the British Journal of Psychiatry has found. The researchers, from Australia and the UK, looked at official homicide statistics -which cover both murder and manslaughter - in England and Wales between 1946 and 2004. Analysis revealed that the rate of total homicide and the rate of homicide due to mental disorder rose steadily until the mid-1970s. The highest annual rate of murders by people with mental health problems peaked in the mid-1970s. In 1973, the rate stood at 0.235 per 100,000 population. However, by this decade, the rate had fallen significantly. The rate has been at an historic low of 0.07 per 100,000 population, or lower, since 2000. The research attribute the fall to the introduction and increasing use of antipsychotic medication, the greater awareness of the treatment of psychosis by primary care providers after deinstitutionalisation, and the creation of regional health authorities with responsibility for defined populations. The study shows that the risk of these types of killings is much lower than what is reflected by the media or perceived by the public. Read "Mental Health Killings 'Falling'" at news.bbc.co.uk.

NEW PROGRAMS AND RESOURCES

Mental Health Commission of Canada Chair Speaks on Homelessness and Mental Illness in Vancouver [back to top]
A free webcast of Michael Kirby's presentation at the Collaboration for Change forum on mental health, addiction and homelessness in Vancouver is available on the Mental Health Commission of Canada website at www.mentalhealthcommission.ca. In his speech he discusses the growing problem of mental illness and homelessness in Vancouver's Downtown East Side, and the need to collaboratively address mental illness, addiction and homelessness in order to create progress. To learn more about the Collaboration for Change initiative, visit city.vancouver.bc.ca.
>> Read the issue of Visions journal on Housing and Homelessness at heretohelp.bc.ca.

Kelty Resource Centre for Children and Youth [back to top]
BC Mental Health and Addictions Services has launched a provincial resource centre called the Kelty Resource Centre. The Kelty Resource Centre is a free, all-inclusive resource centre for BC children, youth and their families. They provide timely, relevant, evidence-based and client-friendly information on mental health and addictions topics and on programs and services in BC. They also provide resources for adults with eating disorders. Clients can access the centre during the drop-in hours, by appointment or by phone. The Centre is located on the BC Children's Hospital site, in Room P3-302 on the 3rd Level of the Mental Health Building. Visit www.bcmhas.ca for all the details.

Children's Quarterly Focuses on Bipolar Disorder [back to top]
The new issue of Children's Mental Health and Research Quarterly, published by SFU's Children's Health Policy Centre, tackles the issue of bipolar disorder in children and adolescents. Written in plain language, the various articles sketch a realistic picture of bipolar disorder in children and explore the diagnostic criteria of this illness. The issue also includes a carefully researched evaluation of various drugs used to treat bipolar disorder in children. The issue ends with an examination of the effectiveness of play therapy. Read the it at www.childhealthpolicy.sfu.ca.

EMOTIONS Book and CD Teach Emotional Intelligence to Children [back to top]
EMOTIONS is a 24-page, full colour, illustrated book which teaches children about the ten emotions. The EMOTIONS book and CD, with performances by Juno award winners, offer the child an opportunity to read along while listening to the CD, providing a multi-sensory learning tool. For parents, teachers and health care practitioners, the EMOTIONS book & CD is a mental health tool, enabling children to clarify how they feel. Author Marla Rosen, who is a performing arts educator and Montessori teacher, tours across Canada currently promoting awareness about emotional intelligence for children, literacy and violence prevention through EMOTIONS Puppet Show and Concert. Marla also gives Emotional Intelligence Workshops to educators. The EMOTIONS book & CD is available at Chapter's online and other local retailers. Cost: $20. For further info about the EMOTIONS project please visit www.emotionsbook.com.

YouthSpace - Chat Counselling and Web Forums for Youth [back to top]
Youthspace.ca is a free, anonymous and confidential web forum for youth. Youthspace.ca users can chat live with a volunteer, contribute to public forum discussions, or email a counsellor for advice. Youthspace is a division of NEED Crisis and Information Line. Just like NEED's telephone support line for youth (Youthline), chatters have the opportunity to chat with a caring and highly trained volunteer while keeping completely anonymous.

Network Magazine Explores Mental Health and the Built Environment [back to top]
Our mental health is significantly affected by the buildings, spaces and products that surround us. The summer 2008 edition of CMHA Ontario's Network magazine explores how the built environment impacts our mental health and influences people's recovery from mental illnesses, both positively and negatively. The physical realities of treatment facilities, mental health housing, workplaces, and neighborhoods and how they affect people's thoughts, feelings and behaviors are explored within this issue. See "Beyond Bricks and Mortar: Mental Health and the Built Environment," at www.ontario.cmha.ca.

Free Webcast: Stigma Buster Training [back to top]
The Campaign for Mental Health Recovery has posted a free webcast that features a two-part video presentation about using public service announcements (PSAs) to overcome stigma. It covers key media relations tools, including media lists, "pitching," and working with coalitions. The Webcast is a training tool for using the Campaign's "community site kits" to "What a Difference a Friend Makes" PSAs targeted to teens and young adults. Site kits are available for free from Elizabeth Edgar at CMHR-liaison@nami.org.

Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) Webinar for Practitioners [back to top]
The Achieving Recovery for Those You Serve Through the Effective Use of Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) webinar provides an overview about the different ways recovery is defined and how to use WRAP® to develop cooperative relationships and treatment plans with those you serve. Content presentation is followed by a demonstration of Essential Learning's new service, Build Your Own WRAP. Access the replay and download presentation slides at www.essentiallearning.com.

Evidence-based Mental Health Practices [back to top]
The US-based National Alliance on Mental Illness has published a short, easy-to-read resource for people with mental illness, their families and service-providers on evidence-based practices (EBPs), including the history of the movement, challenges with their application and what makes them effective or ineffective, particularly in diverse communities. According to the authors, "treatments are considered an evidence-based practice once they produce significantly positive outcomes in two or more controlled studies." Major barriers to the use of EBPs are inadequate funding, training and policies to support and sustain their implementation. There are also concerns that EPS do not include culturally specific practices and might not be suitable for minority communities. See "Evidence-Based Practices and Multicultural Mental Health," at www.nami.org.

Guidelines for Recognizing Mental Health Needs in Primary Care [back to top]
New Zealand has produced a broad mental health guideline for primary care practitioners -the first of its kind. The guideline addresses the recognition and assessment of suicidal intent, psychotic symptoms, severe self-neglect, depression and bipolar disorder in children, youth and adults, and anxiety and substance abuse in adults. It includes treatment guidelines for depression in these groups as well. The document also recommends targeted screening for mental disorders in people with a chronic illness, those who recently experienced a significant loss, older adults in residential care, women in pre- and post-natal periods, and people with a history of mental health problems. See "Identification of Common Mental Disorders and Management of Depression in Primary Care," at www.nzgg.org.nz.

Homelessness Resource Centre for Service Providers [back to top]
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a public health agency within the US Department of Health and Human Services, has launched an online resource centre to share state-of-the art knowledge and promising practices to prevent and end homelessness. The website is intended to be a social network where service providers, consumers, policymakers, researchers, and public agencies at federal, state, and local levels can share knowledge and experience. Site users can download reports, best practices, and fact sheets on a variety of topics, as well as find training resources and participate in online forums. Visit the Homelessness Resource Center at www.homeless.samhsa.gov.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Canadian Government Commits $130 Million to Mental Health Commission [back to top]
The Minister of Health has announced that the Government's funding commitment to the Canadian Mental Health Commission is now confirmed at $130 million over its 10-year mandate. The commission was officially launched by the Prime Minister on August 31, 2007. In Budget 2007, the Government committed $55 million over five years towards a mental health commission and today the Government confirms a total investment of $130 million over 10 years. Read the "Government of Canada Confirms Funding For Canadian Mental Health Commission" news release at www.hc-sc.gc.ca.

Action-oriented Mental Health Research Given $4.4 Million Boost [back to top]
Three new research projects aimed at transferring research findings into strategies and guidelines for mental health issues have received an investment of $4.4 million from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR). One of the projects also received $250,000 from the Mental Health Commission of Canada. The three funded projects include a University of Manitoba study of how to support young adults with anxiety and depression to obtain effective forms of help; the development and evaluation of a model to bring evidence-based practices into the children's mental health and education sectors, spearheaded by the Hospital for Sick Children; and a McMaster University study in collaboration with addiction centre staff to ensure services/treatments are provided for women with substance use issues and their children. The three projects will be funded for a five-year period. See "Solving Mental Health Problems by Turning Research into Action," at www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca.

The Spirit of Hope Award Calls for Nominations - Deadline September 12 [back to top]
The goal of the Spirit of Hope Award is to recognize an individual, program, not-for-profit agency or public institution within BC that has made a significant impact on improving the mental health conditions of immigrants and refugees. Along with the award is a donation of $1,000 to a Mental Health program of the award recipients' choice. For more information or to download an application form visit www.psychiatry.ubc.ca.

Touched by Fire Gallery Show Calls for Entries - Deadline September 19 [back to top]
Touched by Fire, a program that encourages and celebrates the work of artists with mood disorders, is now accepting submissions for its 2008 gallery show and sale. The second annual live exhibit and sale will be held at the Gladstone Hotel in Toronto on November 13-15, 2008. An invitation-only opening gala will be held on Thursday, November 13. Deadline for submission to the Touched by Fire gallery show and sale is September 19, 2008. Entries are restricted to two-dimensional artworks (paintings and drawings) and photography. The non-profit program, co-sponsored by the Mood Disorders Association of Ontario and investment firm Raymond James, also features an online virtual gallery to which artists are encouraged to submit their artwork on an ongoing basis. For more information about Touched by Fire and how to submit work for the gallery show, visit www.touchedbyfire.ca/artshow.html.

Reasons to Live Project Seeks Stories of Those Who Choose to Live [back to top]
Have you attempted suicide? Did you choose life? If you answered "yes" to both questions, you might want to participate in the Reasons to go on Living Project and help researchers in the medical profession understand the process of transition from wanting to die to wanting to live. They hope by studying people's stories, they will be able to develop better ways to help people who are suicidal. The project will help professionals who treat people making suicide attempts, and will also offer public education and support by sharing some of the stories they receive. If you have a story you would like to share, visit the www.thereasons.ca or contact Hema Zbogar, editor of CrossCurrents at hema_zbogar@camh.net. Your anonymity is guaranteed and your help will be invaluable.

Schizophrenia Society of Canada Conducting Quality of Life Survey [back to top]
The Schizophrenia Society of Canada is undertaking a research project to develop a tool for measuring Quality of Life from the perspective of people living with schizophrenia and their families. They define quality of life as more than symptom reduction and staying out of hospital. They want to learn what quality of life means to people with mental illness and their families and caregivers and use the findings from the survey to improve the educational, support and advocacy efforts of the Schizophrenia Societies. The lived experience survey is available at www.surveymonkey.com and the family/caregiver survey is available a www.surveymonkey.com.

Anti-Psychotic Drugs Study Looking for Participants [back to top]
Have you taken Seroquel, Risperidone or Olanzapine? Would like you to participate in an investigation of antipsychotics in schizophrenia and schizophrenia-like psychosis? The study involves meeting with the researchers to determine your eligibility, signing a consent form, providing a 20ml blood sample, and giving them permission to review your medical chart. Your participation would involve one or two sessions that are 45 to 60 minutes each. In appreciation for your time, you will receive $20 for participating. The Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic is located at 715 W 12th Ave, Vancouver. If you are interested, call Boris Feldman at 604-875-5823.

Genetic Counselling Study Looking for Participants [back to top]
Departments of Psychiatry and Medical Genetics researchers are investigating the potential benefits to someone with a mental illness of receiving more information about the causes of their illness through a process called genetic counselling. They are interested in hearing the thoughts and opinions of people with mental illness about the genetic counselling process, including input on how it could better meet their needs. Both men and women with a history of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or schizoaffective disorder are being recruited to participate in the study. The study involves one or two meetings with a researcher and completing questionnaires at home. The meetings with the researcher will take place at the Gordon and Leslie Diamond Health Care Centre (on the corner of Oak Street and12th Avenue). Reimbursement for travel expenses will be provided. If you are interested in participating, please contact Jennifer Sloan at 604 875 2000 ext.4733, or by email at mental.illness@ubc.ca.

Mental health and Pregnancy Study Looking for Participants [back to top]
Departments of Psychiatry and Medical Genetics researchers are conducting a research study that aims to understand why some women develop postpartum depression or psychosis and others do not. The research is designed to test the idea that a genetic variation together with folate levels in a woman's blood can influence her risk for postpartum depression. The aim of the research is to find ways to help to reduce the risk for postpartum depression by using nutritional supplements. Women who are pregnant (at any stage of pregnancy) and who have a history of mental health problems are being recruited to participate in the study. The study involves a participant meeting with a researcher 4 times: once during the pregnancy, and 3 times over the first 3 months of the postpartum period. The researchers can cover costs of travel for women to participate in the research at either St. Paul's or Children's and Women's Hospitals. Alternatively, some study visits can be conducted at participants' homes or by email/phone. If you are interested in participating, please contact Jennifer Sloan at 604 875 2000 ext.4733 or mental.illness@ubc.ca.

Stigma Study Looking for Family Members [back to top]
Stigma can have serious negative effects on people with mental illness and their family members. Departments of Psychiatry and Medical Genetics researchers are developing a questionnaire to assess internalized stigma in first-degree family members (parents, brothers, sisters, and children) of people with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or schizoaffective disorder. The questionnaire will gather information about stigma in family members of people with mental illness and aim to improve coping and the overall well being of the family network. If you have a first-degree family member with mental illness and would like more information about participating please contact Emily Morris at mental.illness@ubc.ca or by phone 604 875 2000 ext. 4733. Please note, you can participate if you have a mental illness yourself, as long as you also have an affected first degree family member too.

BC Psychological Association Awards Calls for Nominations - Deadline September 30 [back to top]
The BC Psychological association is presenting its 2008 Awards in professional contribution, humanitarian efforts, excellence in teaching and advancement of profession categories. You can nominate a distinguished psychologist by submitting a 100 word minimum write-up to bcpa@telus.net. For more information, send a fax to 604-730-0502.

Translation of Knowledge Grants [back to top]
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research is giving away grants to accelerate the translation of knowledge by linking researchers and knowledge users to move knowledge into action. Applicants can request funding to build on partnerships, knowledge and tools to support implementation projects of up to two years. The maximum amount awarded for a single grant is $100,000 per annum for up to two years. The applicants are not required to have created the knowledge or research to be moved into practice, but must demonstrate the strength of the evidence supporting it. This strategic initiative is designed to foster the continuing acceleration of knowledge translation to strengthen Canada's health care system and/or improve the health of Canadians. For eligibility criteria and application guidelines visit www.researchnet-recherchenet.ca.

Moving Mental Health into the Mainstream Conference Calls for Papers - Deadline September 30 [back to top]
The Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) is presenting a conference on moving mental health and wellness promotion into the mainstream. It is hoping to foster a discussion between governments, service users and providers, as well as the non-governmental, voluntary and private sectors. The conference is also meant to be a source of learning and inspiration for the MHCC in its efforts to integrate mental health and wellness promotion into all its activities. Potential contributors to the Conference are invited to submit abstracts of papers or poster for consideration by the Scientific Committee. Papers and posters must address the broad goals of the conference (moving mental health and wellness promotion into the mainstream) under one of the Conference themes: the concept of mental health and wellness promotion, building the case for mental health and wellness promotion, from thought to action, gathering strength, mental health and wellness promotion 2009 and beyond. See www.toronto.cliffordbeersfoundation.co.uk for details.

PUBLIC EDUCATION EVENTS

Mental Illness Awareness Week - October 5 - 11 [back to top]
Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW) is an annual national public education campaign designed to help open the eyes of Canadians to the reality of mental illness. The week was established in 1992 by the Canadian Psychiatric Association, and is now coordinated by the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH) in cooperation with all its member organizations and many other supporters across Canada. To order campaign materials or find out about events in your area, visit www.miaw.ca.

Movie Mondays in Victoria [back to top]
Every Monday at 6:30pm, 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/mm. Congratulations to Bruce on having his Movie Mondays program featured as a Success Story in education and strigma reduction on the Mental Illness Awareness Week website at www.miaw.ca.
September 8 - Colma the Musical
September 15 - Bee Moving
September 22 - Thank you for Smoking
September 29 - Sybil

Comox Valley Mental Health and Wellness Education Series [back to top]
This series is offered to people interested in learning about common mental health issues. The group classes are geared towards skill building with the intention that participants leave with tools that are useful in promoting their own mental and emotional well-being. Each class is a stand-alone, so you can begin attending at any session. As class size is limited to 15 participants, please call 250-338-9777 to register. Classes will be held Wednesdays from 6- 8 pm at the Comox Valley Mental Health & Addiction office located at 941 C England Avenue, Courtenay.
September 10 - How Thinking Styles affect Mental Health
September 17 - Stress Reduction & Relaxation: A Practical Session

World Suicide Prevention Day - September 10 [back to top]
World Suicide Prevention Day promotes worldwide commitment and action to prevent suicides. On average, almost 3000 people commit suicide daily. For every person who completes a suicide, 20 or more may attempt to end their lives.With the sponsoring International Association for Suicide Prevention, WHO and other partners advocate for the prevention of suicidal behaviour, provision of adequate treatment and follow-up care for people who attempted suicide, as well as responsible reporting of suicides in the media.The theme this year is "Think globally, plan nationally, act locally." To learn more or download handouts, examples of activites from around the world and other resources, visit iasp.info.

Making Connections Social Group - Starts September 12 [back to top]
Vancouver Coastal Health and THEO BC are pleased to present the Making Connections group for Adults (19+) with a mental illness living in Vancouver. The group helps adults expand their social network, mix and Mingle with others who are looking to meet new people, and find others who share similar interests and discover leisure resources/opportunities in the community. The group meets every Friday from 2-4pm for three months, starting September 12. The group will meet at THEO BC, located at 30 East 6th Ave, Vancouver. For more information call Mariana at 604-876-0773.

MDA of BC Education Evening - Bipolar Disorder Update - September 18 [back to top]
Join Mood Disorders Association of BC for their monthly Education Evening for the community. Dr. Ron Remick, a Psychiatrist at St. Paul's Hospital, will present an Update on Bipolar Disorder for 2008. The free event starts at 7pm at Sunrise Hall, 1950 Windermere St., Vancouver. Call 604-873-0103 or email info@mdabc.net for more information.

Reach Out Youth Concert Tour Comes to Northern BC - September 24 - October 4 [back to top]
The BC Schizophrenia Society and BC Partners for Mental Health and Addiction Information are harnessing the power of music to change attitudes about psychosis and promote early and more effective treatment for this devastating brain condition. The popular Reach Out high school awareness program, which has been bringing its free concert and spoken word tour to lower mainland high schools since 2005, is, for the first time, visiting high schools and correctional facilities in Northern BC and the Queen Charlotte Islands. The theme of Reach Out is: "Psychosis sucks if there is no one there to catch you!" and it will feature slam poet Barbara Adler and popular band Ten Ways From Sunday who will be helping to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and promoting early treatment for psychosis. More information on concert dates and locations, concert booking procedures, and performer and psychosis information is available at www.reachoutpsychosis.com or email reachout@bcss.org.

Now Who's Crazy Now? - October 2 - 5 [back to top]
This fall, local mental health coach, consultant and public speaker Elly Litvak is taking her one woman show, Now Who's Crazy Now?, to New York. In this fast paced, one-woman play Elly chronicles her experience living with and recovering from a serious mental illness. The play is highly entertaining and educational, with a message that there is hope for recovery for everyone. The play will be part of the year's Performing the World (PTW) '08, an international conference and festival in New York City, co-hosted by the East Side Institute for Group and Short Term Psychotherapy and the All Stars Project. PTW '08 is expected to attract over 400 grassroots practitioners, activists, scholars and researchers from around the world, coming together over their common involvement in performance art as a vehicle for growth and development. Visit www.whoscrazynow.com for details.

Beyond the Blues: Depression Anxiety Education and Screening Day - October 9 [back to top]
Beyond the Blues: Depression Anxiety Education and Screening Day is coordinated annually in October during the first Thursday of Mental Illness Awareness Week by CMHA BC Division on behalf of the BC Partners for Mental Health and Addictions Information. Beyond the Blues is an opportunity to learn more about these treatable conditions, complete a brief questionnaire, speak one-on-one with a clinician, and find out about the range of community resources available to help. Many sites also feature workshops, videos, multilingual information and screenings, and risky drinking checkups. Learn more at www.heretohelp.bc.ca/events.

Margaret Trudeau Speaks about Her Journey through Mental Illness - October 9 [back to top]
The Mood Disorders' Association of BC, in partnership with Fraser Health and other community, education and mental health organizations in the region, is pleased to welcome Margaret Trudeau, mental health advocate, presenting her story on the importance of finding balance of mind, body, and spirit. This presentation will be part of Mental Illness Awareness Week. At 7pm at SFU, Surrey Campus, 13450 - 102 Ave., Surrey, Westminster Savings Credit Union Lecture Theatre (near Surrey Central Skytrain Station). Tickets: $10. Visit www.mdabc.net or call 604-873-0103 for more information.

Managing to Manage Workplace Stress: Make Your Workplace Great! - October 23 [back to top]
Join Dr. Steven Stein, psychologist and CEO, as he discusses some of the findings from his new book, Make Your Workplace Great: The 7 Keys to an Emotionally Intelligent Organization. Based on surveys with thousands of people in a variety of organizations, seven areas are identified that you can focus on to improve your work environment, including Work/Life Stress Management. This talk will focus on concrete steps you can take to increase employee health and engagement, and the overall productivity of your organization. There will be an opportunity for questions and discussion afterwards. Everyone will receive booklets by The Psychology Foundation of Canada called, Managing to Manage Workplace Stress and The Struggle to Juggle: Top Stress Management Strategies for You and Your Family. Information from other partner organizations like CMHA BC will also be available. Brought to you by The Psychology Foundation of Canada (PFC) and Desjardins Financial Security. Cost: free (includes hot breakfast). The workshop will take place 7:30 to 9:30am at The Vancouver Club, 915 West Hastings Street, Vancouver. Email Krista Saleh at klsconsult@rogers.com to register.

The Struggle to Juggle: Top Stress Management Strategies for Work and Home! - October 23 [back to top]
Listen to leading expert psychologist Dr. Steven Stein discuss key work-life balance strategies to use at work and at home and learn how these strategies relate to emotional intelligence. Also hear how stress affects your children and pick up some great stress management strategies to use with your kids during this busy time of year. Each participant will have the opportunity to win a copy of one of Dr. Stein's books, and everyone will receive booklets by The Psychology Foundation of Canada called, Managing to Manage Workplace Stress and The Struggle to Juggle: Top Stress Management Strategies for You and Your Family (featuring information from PFC's Kids Have Stress Too!® Program). Information from other partner organizations like CMHA BC will also be available. Brought to you by The Psychology Foundation of Canada (PFC) and Desjardins Financial Security. Cost: free. This workshop will take place 12 to 1pm and 1:25 to 2:15pm at Guinness Tower Conference Room, Lower Main Floor, 1055 West Hastings St., Vancouver. Visit www.psychologyfoundation.org to register.

COURSES AND WORKSHOPS

Mental Health Works Workshops for Workplaces [back to top]
Approaching an employee who seems to be unwell, managing performance issues where mental health may be an issue and addressing the concerns of co-workers are all issues we can help with. Mental Health Works, a multiple award-winning initiative of CMHA, provides organizations with the tools and resources they need to effectively address issues involving mental illness in the workplace. Educational presentations and skills-building workshops are available for various audiences in the workplace - employees at all levels, union representatives, operational managers, and senior executives. Learn more at www.mentalhealthworks.ca or contact Margaret Tebbutt at 1-800-555-8222 or mentalhealthworks@cmha.bc.ca for more information.

Online Workshops Help you Take Care of a Loved One with a Disability [back to top]
Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network (PLAN) is offering two online workshops this fall that may interest families. Wills, Trusts & Estates is a great way to learn how to plan for the future of a loved one from the convenience of your own home, and Home Is Where the Heart Is helps you explore solutions to housing options and supports for people with disabilities. PLAN's online workshops take approximately 3 - 5 hours to complete. Participants work at their own pace, can access the workshop at any time during the period it is offered, and an online facilitator is available to answer questions and provide assistance throughout the course. Wills, Trusts & Estates is open from September 1st - 19th and from November 1st - 30th. Home Is Where the Heart Is runs from October 1st - 31st and again from November 15th - December 15th. Cost: $60/per workshop. For more information or to register go to www.plan.ca or call 604-439-9566.

Early Neglect and Trauma, New Westminster - September 12 [back to top]
In this workshop for practitioners, Dr. Sandra Wieland will discuss the effects that abuse, witnessing violence, severe abandonment and loss, or natural disasters can have on a child. In addition, Sandra will discuss the effects of maltreatment on the development of neuronal networks within the brain, memory systems (including muscle memory), and the autonomic nervous system. The role of attachment and dissociation will also be discussed. Sandra will help therapists develop specific ideas for working with the child and with the child and parent to shift these negative brain and body system effects. Ideas for understanding triggers and processing trauma will be presented. Cost: $100 early bird (before September 6), $125 regular. The workshop will take place at the Justice Institute, 715 McBride Blvd., New Westminster. For more information please contact Kula Zervos at 604-854-3309 or kulzer1@telus.net.

Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) - September 13 to October 25 [back to top]
WRAP is a wellness and recovery-oriented program designed for people who have a mental illness and are interested in learning more about how to recover and stay well. You will create your own recovery and crisis plan designed for you, by you. Recognizing that mental health recovery is possible and achievable, is the mission of the WRAP program. Funded by the Vancouver Branch of the BC Schizophrenia Society. Saturdays from 2 to 5pm, at Crossroads Community Home, 2046 Dunbar St., Vancouver. Register by calling 604-708-5274 and leaving your name and phone number.

Family Matters: Transforming Families from Addiction to Healing, Abbotsford - September 18 [back to top]
The Ministry of Child and Family Development (MCFD) presents Dr. Claudia Black, a renowned author and trainer internationally recognized for her pioneering and contemporary work with family systems and addictive disorders. In her presentation, Claudia will give a portrait of addiction in the family, offering an overlay of how chronic stress, abandonment and blatant violence are all aspects of familial trauma. Through the words and pictures of children, Claudia will discuss goals in working with children impacted by familial addiction. The presentation will take place from 9:30-4:00 at Cascade Community Chur 35190 Delair Road, Abbotsford. Cost: $65.00; MCFD staff from out of area and Aboriginal teams: $50.00; Free for MCFD staff and Foster Parents from Mission and Abbotsford (coffee and tea included). Call 604-854-3309 or email Kulzer1@telus.net to register.

My Tween and Me: a Training Program for Parents - September 17-19 [back to top]
My Tween and Me is a new program from the BC Council for Families for BC parents of children aged 7 to 12 years. Addressing the key areas of every school-age child's life - home and family, school and friends, and community life - My Tween and Me explores the factors that can protect children as they move through the tween years and into the teen years. Recent research shows that the tween years are crucial to kids' healthy growth - particularly in helping kids develop skills and relationships that will allow them to resist joining in high-risk activities, like drinking and drug use, during their teen years. My Tween and Me supports parents becoming and remaining key sources of information and influence in the lives of their tween children. Cost: $400 for three sessions (light breakfast, lunch and refreshments included) The workshops will be held at Vancouver Public Library at 350 West Georgia St., Vancouver. See for www.bccf.bc.ca details.

Legal Issues in Mental Health - September 29 [back to top]
Clinical situations where mental health law must be applied often cause confusion for the practitioner. Three areas that often cause the greatest risk are in; the clinical assessment of malingering and deception, suicide risk assessment and the determination of mental competence. Discussion will be aimed at improving understanding of legal issues critical to performing at the standard of practice. An update in the most current research, literature and approaches to child murder will also be discussed. Dr. Phillip J. Resnick is a leading international authority on Forensic Psychiatry, specializing in the clinical prediction of the risk of violence and the assessment of malingering and deception. 8:30am - 4:14pm at the Executive Hotel, 4201 Lougheed Hwy., Burnaby. Cost: $208. For more information on this one-day workshop, please call 1-866-738-4823 or visit www.execulinks.net or www.nursinglinks.ca.

CONFERENCES

Canadian Psychiatric Association's Annual Conference - September 4-7 [back to top]
The Canadian Psychiatric Association's annual conference is the largest psychiatric continuing professional development program in Canada. Each year, more than 1,200 psychiatrists and other mental health care professionals attend the conference to keep up-to-date on the latest research, exchange ideas, and network with colleagues from across the country. Cost: $200 member, $250 nurse/psychologist/social worker, $350 non-member and industry. See www.cpa-apc.org for details.

New Perspectives: Conference on Addiction, Nanaimo - September 11-13 [back to top]
Edgewood Treatment Centre is hosting an upcoming conference on addiction, to take place at the brand new Vancouver Island Conference Centre in Nanaimo. "New Perspectives" features preeminent researcher/educator, Dr. Carlton Erickson, from the University of Texas, a leading expert in addiction neurobiology. It will also include Intervention Training Seminars by two leading intervention specialists: Heather Hayes and Bill Maher. Cost: $380 regular, $210 Student. For more information, see www.edgewood.ca.

Breaking Through the Barriers to Recovery, Winnipeg - September 17 - 19 [back to top]
This conference brings together practitioners, consumers and other experts to talk about barriers to recovering from mental illness and how they can be overcome. The conference offers a variety of sessions to choose from on topics such as homelessness, models of care, deinstitutionalization and employability skills. The keynote speaker is Bill McPhee, founder, publisher, and CEO of Schizophrenia Digest. Cost: $275 member, $350 non-member, $100 consumer/family/student. Download a full program at www.psrrpsontario.ca.

Health and Wellbeing in Persons with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities - September 25 - 26 [back to top]
Health and Wellbeing in Persons with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities Children, Youth and Adults will provide education and informative updates on psychiatric, behavioural and complex health components specific to individuals with developmental disabilities, and showcase best practices in the field. Includes sessions on psychopharmacology and planning guidelines for mental health and addiction services for children, youth and adults with developmental disabilities and also addresses topics such as epilepsy, aging in down syndrome, autism spectrum disorders, sexual health, self-injurious behaviour and other challenging behaviours. Cost: $495 full conference, $295 Individual Days, $250 Student. Bursaries for families and service provides are available. Visit www.interprofessional.ubc.ca for a full program and registration details.

A Consensus Development Conference on Depression in Adults, Calgary - October 15-17 [back to top]
The Consensus Development Conference on Depression in Adults invites participants to bring their perspectives and gain insight on depressive disorders in adults. The sharing of knowledge and expertise will support the creation of a consensus statement on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of depression. The distribution of the consensus statement to a wide audience has the power to immediately influence current perceptions and practice, and is essential in shaping future policy development. Conference panel members include CMHA BC Division Public Policy and Community-based Research Consultant, Nancy Hall. Cost: $315 early bird, $393 regular. See www.buksa.com for details.

"Non"-Conference on Engaging with Families for Child and Youth Mental Health - October 17 [back to top]
Presented by the FORCE Society for Kids' Mental Health, this "non"-conference includes speakers on the history of family engagement in the USA and the National Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health in Maryland, USA, the findings and recommentations for child and youth mental health from the Reaching for the Top report, a documentary featuring families and professionals, and an applied theatre presentation. 10am to 4pm at the Chan Auditorium, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver. Cost: $100/Professionals; $20/Families. For more information visit www.bckidsmentalhealth.org.

Discrimination Prevention Forum, Ottawa - October 27-29 [back to top]
The Canadian Human Rights Commission’s 2008 Discrimination Prevention Forum "Making an Impact," will take place from October 27-29, 2008. It is a gathering of decision makers from government, private sector and non profit organizations, learning together to identify emerging issues, share knowledge and develop tools to prevent discrimination and promote human rights. During the 2 1/2 day program in Ottawa we will delve into subjects such as reasonable accommodation, our future workforce and mental health as well as offer a variety of exciting workshops.Cost: $425. For more information visit www.chrc-ccdp.ca.

Taking Action Together: Chronic Disease Prevention, Ottawa - November 24-26 [back to top]
This conference focuses on how individuals, organizations, strategies and sectors can collaboratively act on the root causes of chronic disease in Canada. Producing the greatest gains in the health status of Canadians will require urgent action that reduces the inequities giving rise to chronic diseases such as mental illness, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, kidney disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Cost: $475 participant/presenter, $250 student. See www.cdpac.ca/conference for details

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.

If you have any ideas or content for MIND MATTERS, please send them to mindmatters@cmha.bc.ca.

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.

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