VOLUME 49 : January 2007 | online at www.cmha.bc.ca/enews/enewsjan07.htm

CMHA News
Homelessness Outreach Helps 600 People - and Counting
Start the Year on the Right Foot - Share the Gift of Hope
Suzan Milburn Presentations on the Gift of Depression
Strengthening Family and Youth Voices Forum
Bottom Line Conference on Mental Illness in the Workplace
More Demands, Higher Bills - CMHA Study Reveals Causes of Holiday Stress
CMHA Twice Awards Senate Committee for Mental Health Study
New Endowment Fund Honours Former General Director of CMHA
Brief Counselling Service for North Shore Residents
Vancouver/Burnaby Branch Special Events
North Shore Health Lecture Series
Mandarin Emotional Health Support Group – Puti Meditation and Mental Health

Featured CMHA Program:
Strengthening Family and Youth Voice Forum - February 9

Canadian Research
First Canada-Wide Study of Teen Depression & Suicidality
Over 60% Frontline Hospital Workers Report Burnout, Depression
Nurses Report High Levels of Abuse, Stress
Hysteria Not a Figment of a Patient's Imagination
Tanning Salons Not Answer for SAD, Warns Doctor
Teen Smokers More Likely to Abuse Alcohol, Other Drugs
Public Smoking Bans Help Smokers Quit
Disability Gap: No Support for Those with Moderate Ailments

CMHA Mailbox:
Putting Lives Back Together

Research From Around the World
Canadians as Stressed as Americans
Look at Alcohol Use for Depressed Female Patients
FDA Calls for Antidepressant Warning Labels for Young Adults
New Moms At Risk For Variety of Mental Problems, Dads Less Vulnerable
Scan Reveals early Signs of Alzheimer's
Brain Training Can Have Long-Lasting Benefits for Seniors
Preparation Helps Kids Avoid Homesickness
Diet Articles Trigger Unhealthy Behaviours in Girls
Quitting Smoking? Cutting Back Over Time May Be Better Than Going ‘Cold Turkey'
Brain May Repair Some Alcohol Damage
Psychological Treatments Reduce Back Pain

New Programs and Resources
New Organization Focuses on Mental Health and Deafness
FRIENDS Program Offers Relief for Students Suffering Anxiety
Depression Fuels Artist's Colourful Visions of Vancouver's Downtown Eastside
Skills Training Centre in New Westminster
US Anti-Stigma Website - What A Difference A Friend Makes
Mental Health Promotion Materials Designed by Youth
Drinkingfacts.ca Website for Youth
Online Alcohol Reality Check for Young Adults
New Newsletter on Seniors Mental Health and Addictions
Alcohol Dependence and Misuse Among Older Gay and Lesbian People
Access to Mental Health Services: The Role of the Doctor
How Overspending Can Cost Your Health – And How to Avoid it
How to Cut Down on Stress When the Power Goes Out
Free To Fly: A Story of Manic Depression
This Crisis, These Blessings: Essays on Womens' Experiences of Crisis

Announcements
Federal Government Commits $526M to Homelessness
Newfoundland to Update Mental Health Legislation
10 by 10 Challenge to Increase Employment for Persons with Disabilities in BC
Courage To Come Back Awards Seeking Nominations
Health Promotion and Education World Conference – Call for Abstracts Extended
Workplace Mental Health & Addiction: Research, Knowledge & Action
Psychosis Treatment Adherence Study Seeking Participants
Newborn Behaviour Study Seeking Expectant Mothers
Manager, Concurrent Disorders Transitional Housing Program Position in Vancouver
Manager, Regional Clinic Positions in Kamloops, Prince George, Victoria, Nanaimo, Surrey, Vancouver
Clinical Services Manager Position in Coquitlam

Public Education Events
Movie Mondays in Victoria
Seminars on Anxiety Disoders in Children and Youth
Frames of Mind Mental Health Film Series
Hope and Healing After a Suicide Loss - A Public Forum
MDA Education Evening – Suicide is Everyone's Business
Promoting Healthy Living: Multicultural Health Fair
Strengthening Family and Youth Voices Forum

Courses and Workshops
Mental Health Works Workshops
Helping the Helper Non-Profit Management Workshops
ApCampus Addictions Professional Online Learning Program
Free Strengthening Families Together Program
Advocating for Change
Setting the Stage: Addressing Tobacco Use – Free Workshops for Health Professionals
Tax Tips For Families of a Relative With a Disability

Conferences
Free Symposium on Human Rights for People with Mental Illness
Roundtable on the Future of Homecare in Gatineau, Quebec
BC Psychopharmacology Conference
Participation in the Workplace
2007 Bottom Line Conference – Mental Illness in the Workplace: The Elephant in the Room
Changing Behaviour, Changing Lives: Alcohol and Co-occuring Conditions
Canadian Conference on Men's Health in Victoria
Mental Health and the Justice System Across the Lifespan

CMHA News

Homelessness Outreach Helps 600 People - and Counting [back to top]
From August to the end of November, CMHA BC Division's Income Assistance/Homeless Outreach Project has provided service to over 600 homeless individuals throughout the province. Outreach workers at CMHA branches in Kamloops, Kelowna, Port Alberni, New Westminster & Maple Ridge (Simon Fraser Branch), North Vancouver, and Williams Lake are working with homeless individuals to connect them to income assistance, secure suitable housing, and connect them to addiction, primary care, and mental health services. First announced in May, the outreach project, a partnership between CMHA BC and the Ministry of Employment and Income Assistance (MEIA), supports homeless individuals to access income supports by removing many of the requirements normally required to access income assistance. See our September and December press releases to find out more.

Start the Year on the Right Foot - Share the Gift of Hope [back to top]
Recovering from the added pressures of the holiday season can be a difficult time - even more so for people coping with mental illness without the proper services and supports. Your gift to CMHA can help ensure that for those in need of hope, help is here. Through the support of our communities, CMHA is able provide year-round services and supports - from community clubhouses and supported housing projects to support groups and public education campaigns. Share your hopes for the new year with those who need it most. Find out how at www.givehope.ca.
    >> share your gift with others - for each $15 you donate, you will receive a two beautiful "Gift of Hope" greeting cards to give as a gift to someone you care about.

Suzan Milburn Presentations on the Gift of Depression - January 26 and Febuary 24 [back to top]
CMHA Prince George and Cowichan Valley Branch will each be hosting a free, hour-long presentation on a BC woman’s journey through depression told uniquely through dramatic reading, humour, music and artwork. The presentations—co-led by Suzan Milburn and friend Karen Six—accompany the reprint of Milburn’s popular book by CMHA BC Division this fall after the first printing flew off the shelves when it was first launched in 2005. The full-colour art book, Responding to the Call, features drawings by Suzan Milburn, a Vernon artist who prior to her depression had never drawn anything in her life, weaved together with a narrative by the author about what the gift of depression feels like from the perspective of those living with it.
   The presentations follow the success of the first presentation hosted in December by CMHA Delta Branch. "There was such an honest discussion afterwards - particulary about how much stigma there is around mental wellness - but also many people shared their own personal stories," says Milburn. "Everyone went away with a book and I received so many wonderful comments about the effect it has on others." Contact your local CMHA branch for your FREE copy of Responding to the Call. Multiple copies are available at $4 apiece plus shipping from CMHA BC Division office at 604-688-3234 or 1-800-555-8222.
January 26 - Prince George - 7pm at Art Space, 1685 Third Ave.
February 24 - Duncan - 1:30pm at Duncan Garage, 330 Duncan Street
    >> stay tuned for details on upcoming presentations in Kelowna and Burnaby this spring at www.cmha.bc.ca.

Strengthening Family and Youth Voices Forum – February 9 [back to top]
CMHA BC Division invites you to learn about Strengthening Family and Youth Voices, a province-wide project exploring the emerging role of peer support and mutual aid in child and youth mental health. Meet families and youth from Cranbrook, Duncan, Kitimat, Maple Ridge, and North and West Vancouver who have been involved in projects involving family and youth-driven support groups, opportunities for participants to gain experience in organizing groups, and planning activities and addressing issues on child and youth mental health. Additional guests and presentations from the FORCE Society for Kids' Mental Health, Kinex, Moving Beyond, and Fraser Health's Early Psychosis Intervention program. Registration fee: $75; Early registration: $50 (until January 15). For details and registration, visit www.voicesbc.org.

    >> learn more about the project and forum - in this month's featured CMHA program.

Bottom Line Conference on Mental Illness in the Workplace - March 7 [back to top]
There is a mounting body of research revealing the tremendous personal and economic costs of mental illness in the workplace. Yet, mental illness is a subject many workplaces still don't know how to talk about. CMHA BC Division invites business leaders, frontline and senior managers, human resource specialists, union representatives, benefit providers and mental health service providers to join us at the 2007 Bottom Line Conference, Mental Illness in the Workplace: The Elephant in the Room. Gain insight, be inspired and learn how attention to mental health and mental illness in the workplace will help retain valuable employees, increase employee health, well-being and productivity, as well as decrease absenteeism and disability claims. This year's speakers include Margaret Trudeau, Linda Duxbury, Bill Wilkerson, and Alan Young. Conference fee: $395; Early bird special: $325 (until January 31); see the prices & registration page for group special offers. 7am - 5pm at the Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Centre, 999 Canada Place, Vancouver. Learn more and register at www.bottomlineconference.ca.

    >> don't miss our pre-conference Mental Health Works workshops - March 6, 2007. Learn hands-on skills for addressing mental illness in the workplace. Visit www.bottomlineconference.ca for details and registration.

More Demands, Higher Bills - CMHA Study Reveals Causes of Holiday Stress [back to top] A significant new study released by CMHA National indicates that financial pressures coupled with the strain of "doing more" during the holiday season are placing already stressed Canadians under considerable more strain. The comprehensive two-part study, which focused on understanding winter holiday-triggered stress, anxiety and depression symptoms, polled mental health consumers and family members as well as doctors from across the country. The study showed that added social pressure, financial stress, raised holiday expectations, an increased feeling of loneliness, increased family interaction and the "commercialization of the winter holiday season" topped the list as catalysts for holiday-related stress and anxiety, potentially leading to a diagnosis of anxiety or depression. The study also indicated that a staggering 76.6 percent of people who have been diagnosed with anxiety or depression experience a return or exacerbation of their symptoms during the winter holiday season. Learn more about the study and tips on maintaining good mental health throughout the holiday season at www.cmha.ca.

CMHA Twice Awards Senate Committee for Mental Health Study [back to top]
The Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology recently received three awards from associations in the mental health community. CMHA National awarded the Committee the 2006 C.M. Hincks award, "its highest award, presented annually to the outstanding individual(s) or organization that has advanced mental health in Canada." The committee also received an award from Toronto Branch of CMHA "in recognition of outstanding public service in the interest of mental health." The Canadian Psychiatric Association also honoured the Committee with its Special Recognition Award, "for its leadership and for giving voice to the mental health needs of Canadians through the three years of consultations, and through its final report Out of the Shadows at Last." Read the press release, "The Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology Receives Three Awards for Mental Health Study" at www.parl.gc.ca.

New Endowment Fund Honours Former General Director of CMHA [back to top]
On November 14, 2006, an event was held at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health to celebrate the remarkable career of Dr. John D.M. Griffin, OC, MD, MA, DPM(E), FRCP(C). At the event, the Jack Griffin Education & Research Endowment Fund was created. The late Dr. Jack Griffin is best remembered in Canada and abroad as the General Director of the Canadian Mental Health Association, from 1951 to 1971. The purpose of the Jack Griffin Education and Research Endowment Fund is to provide bursaries for students and others who wish to undertake archival research on any aspect of the history of Canadian psychiatry, mental health and addictions. For more information, read Jack Griffin – Remembering & Celebrating a Good Life at www.cmha.ca.

Brief Counselling Service for North Shore Residents [back to top]
CMHA North & West Vancouver Branch with the support of the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors is offering short-term, low-cost, confidential, one-to-one support to adults living on the North Shore. In general, this short-term service will provide participants with individual counselling for one session per week for a 6 - 8 week period. This short-term counselling service is provided for low income individuals living on the North Shore who are not current recipients of Mental Health Services or in counselling; who are ineligible for third party coverage such as ICBC, WCB or extended health insurance; and who have a realistic potential to benefit from short-term counselling. Cost: $15 per session. Contact Martha at 604-987-6959 for more details.

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.
January 8 – Brackendale Eagle Viewing
January 15 – Snowshoe Tour at Seymour
January 19 – Beats on Broadway
January 26 – Breakfast Club
January 31 – Vancouver Giants vs. Portland Winterhawks

North Shore Health Lecture Series [back to top]
The free weekly Health Lecture Series organized by CMHA North & 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 7pm. For more information please phone 604-987-6959 or visit www.cmhanwv.com.
January 10 – Now Who’s Crazy Now? A One-Woman Play
January 17 – Hand Reflexology
January 24 – Hungry Ghosts: How to Recognize Your Addiction Process and How to Face It
January 31 – Stress – Its Effect on Your Body and Brain

Mandarin Emotional Health Support Group – Puti Meditation and Mental Health – January 8 [back to top]
CMHA Vancouver/Burnaby Branch and Mood Disorders Association of BC presents a monthly support group 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. For January’s session, an instructor of Puti Meditation College will share how Puti Meditation can help people manage emotional problems and promote body and mind wellness. FREE to attend. From 7 – 9pm at 175 West Broadway, Vancouver. For more information or registration, call Stella at 605-872-4902.

Canadian Research

First Canada-Wide Study of Teen Depression & Suicidality [back to top]
For the first time, researchers have examined depression and suicide-related events in teens aged 15 to 18 nation-wide, in an effort to help policy makers identify and address the mental health needs of Canadian adolescents. While young Canadian women tend to experience depression and thoughts of suicide more than men, the men are more likely to act on their suicidal thoughts, say researchers. Compiled by psychiatrists at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto, the study reveals links between "suicidality" and age, income levels and where a teen lives in Canada . See "Canadian teen suicide rates similar to U.S.," at www.canada.com and "First Canada-wide study of teen depression & suicidality," at www.sunnybrook.ca.

Over 60% Frontline Hospital Workers Report Burnout, Depression [back to top]
The Healthy Workplace Initiative is conducting a five-year initiative to evaluate interventions
that improve the mental health of healthcare workers. During the first phase, January-June 2006, focus groups were conducted with frontline workers and interviews with manager, executives and union representatives regarding the full spectrum of work of frontline workers. Over 60 percent of frontline workers reported that they experience burnout, depression, anxiety and irritability in response to work stressors. The outcome most frequently mentioned by managers was increased sick time, short term disability and long term disability for frontline workers. Read the project's findings from the first phase in "Changing the Workplace: Improving Mental Health Among Hospital Workers" in PDF format at www.ohsah.bc.ca.

Nurses Report High Levels of Abuse, Stress [back to top]
Almost a third of nurses are physically assaulted by patients over the course of a year, according to a Statistics Canada survey that found nurses face high levels of abuse, overwork and stress. Over one-third (31%) of female nurses were classified as having high job strain compared to 26% of all employed women. The first-ever National Survey of the Work and Health of Nurses, which questioned nearly 19,000 Canadian nurses from October 2005 to January 2006, found the working conditions take a toll on nurses' physical and mental health. See "Nurses report high levels of abuse, stress," at www.cbc.ca. The survey results are available at at www.statscan.ca.

Hysteria Not a Figment of a Patient's Imagination [back to top]
People who suffer from hysteria, a condition commonly dismissed as a figment of the imagination, may not be imagining their symptoms after all. Researchers at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto say they can see evidence of the condition, also called sensory conversion disorder, on an MRI when certain stimuli are applied to the body. Those who suffer from the disorder typically experience numbness in their extremities along one side of their body. The study, which appears in the December issue of the medical journal Neurology, found that a part of the brain which normally responds to touch was inactive when the numb body part was stimulated - proof that the symptoms really exist. See "Hysteria not a figment of a patient's imagination: study," at chealth.canoe.ca.

Tanning Salons Not Answer for SAD, Warns Doctor [back to top]
Tanning salons are not the remedy for the winter depression known as SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder, says a Vancouver skin cancer specialist. Some tanning businesses claim they can lift people out of the winter blues brought on by a lack of sunlight. But Dr. Jason Rivers of Vancouver's Skin Care Centre and the BC Cancer Agency said tanning beds put out the wrong length of light to do anything to boost mood. See "Tanning salons no answer for SAD, warns doctor," at www.cbc.ca.

Teen Smokers More Likely to Abuse Alcohol, Other Drugs [back to top]
Teens who smoke cigarettes are more likely to drink and abuse alcohol compared to their non-smoking peers, according to a report from the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse. Using data from a 2004 addition survey to look at alcohol and drug abuse among 15- to 19-year-olds, researchers found nearly 27 per cent of teens reported smoking cigarettes at least occasionally in the year before the survey. Among this group, almost 98 per cent also reported drinking alcohol in the past year, compared with 75 per cent of non-smoking youth. Of the youth who smoked, 91 per cent reported using cannabis in the past year, compared with 29 per cent among non-smokers in the same age group. See "Teen smokers more likely to abuse alcohol, other drugs," at www.cbc.ca.

Public Smoking Bans Help Smokers Quit [back to top]
As the start of another new year rang in resolutions to quit smoking, health officials and other experts said public bans and restrictions are helping Canadians kick their addiction to nicotine. John Malcom, head of the Cape Breton District Health Authority in Nova Scotia , said the number of smokers in the region has dropped from 30 per cent to 24 per cent since it became the first area in the Maritimes to ban smoking in public five years ago. A provincewide ban went into effect in Nova Scotia on December 1. See "Bans help smokers quit: health experts," at www.cbc.ca. For current smoking ban bylaws in BC, see the website of the Non-Smokers Rights Association of Canada at www.nsra-adnf.ca.

Disability Gap: No Support for Those with Moderate Ailments [back to top]
The federal government is examining ways of addressing a gap that leaves millions of Canadians affected by moderate disabilities and illnesses without income support. A report for Human Resources and Social Development Canada says workers and their families are vulnerable. The gap exists because employment insurance provides 15 weeks of benefits to people who are seriously ill but are otherwise able to do their jobs. The disability benefit offered through the Canada Pension Plan, on the other hand, is intended for people who are so incapacitated by illness or disability that they will not be able to return to work for at least a year. But for those who suffer from illnesses that create episodes of incapacitation followed by periods of good health - including mental illness, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, AIDS, chronic fatigue syndrome, and lupus - sufferers don't qualify for CPP when their EI runs out because they don't fit the government's definition of disabled. See "Ottawa eyes expanded benefits," at www.theglobeandmail.com. Read the report, Advancing the Inclusion of People with Disabilities 2006 at www.hrsdc.gc.ca.
    >> if the topic of workplace disability insurance interests you, you might be interested in CMHA BC's landmark report and documentary on navigating the workplace disability insurance system available at www.cmha.bc.ca.

Research from around the World

Canadians as Stressed as Americans [back to top]
Despite Canada's laid-back international reputation, a new poll finds we're a pretty stressed out bunch. Three of four Canadians surveyed in an AP-Ipsos survey reported they sometimes or frequently experience stress. The figures show that Canadians report about the same level of stress as their American neighbours. In both countries, six in 10 reported jobs and finances as the most stressful aspects of their lives. See "Canadians more stressed out than most," at www.cbc.ca, and "Canadians, Americans have something in common – stress," at www.globeandmail.com. For the results of the poll, visit www.ipsos-na.com.

Look at Alcohol Use for Depressed Female Patients [back to top]
Clinical depression is more strongly linked to binge drinking in women than in men, a Canadian study suggests. Published in the January issue of Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research, the study reports that, for those with clinical depression, the link to binge drinking appears stronger for women than for men. No difference between men and women was found under the second measurement, when depression was measured based on recent feelings of unhappiness. See "Look at alcohol use for depressed female patients," at www.cbc.ca. An abstract with paid access to the article is available at www.blackwell-synergy.com.
  >> if the topic of alcohol use interests you, check out the Visions Journal issue on Alcohol on the HeretoHelp.bc.ca website.

FDA Calls for Antidepressant Warning Labels for Young Adults [back to top]
Antidepressant drugs should be labelled to warn that their use may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviour in people up to age 24, says a US government advisory panel. The information should be added to current "black box" warnings that say taking the drugs may increase risks in children and teens, said the panel of outside experts, which the US Food and Drug Administration called on for advice on the issue. However, mental health experts worry that additional warnings could curtail use of the drugs and ultimately do more harm than good. Psychiatrists warned that people with untreated depression — about half of those who suffer from the disease — face an estimated 15 per cent greater likelihood of death by suicide. See "Add antidepressant warning labels for young adults: U.S. Panel," at www.cbc.ca.

New Moms At Risk For Variety of Mental Problems, Dads Less Vulnerable [back to top]
New moms face increased risks for a variety of mental problems, not just postpartum depression, according to one of the largest studies of psychiatric illness after childbirth. New dads aren't as vulnerable, probably because they don't experience the same physical and social changes associated with having a baby, the researchers and other experts said. The study, based on medical records of 2.3 million people over a 30-year period in Denmark, found that the first three months after women have their first baby is riskiest, especially the first few weeks. That's when the tremendous responsibility of caring for a newborn hits home. See "New moms at risk for variety of mental problems, large study find; dads not as vulnerable," at www.canada.com.
  >> if the topic of women's mental health interests you, check out the Visions Journal issue on Alcohol on the HeretoHelp.bc.ca website.

Scan Reveals early Signs of Alzheimer's [back to top]
A new imaging molecule may help to identify Alzheimer's disease, researchers say. Currently, the only way to tell whether someone has the brain disorder is to remove some brain tissue or perform an autopsy. Doctors at the University of California, Los Angeles, say they have found a better way using chemical tracers that can be detected with a PET scan. Distinct differences were found in the PET images between people with normal brain aging, Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment. The scans were 98 per cent accurate at distinguishing between Alzheimer's and mild cognitive impairment, the researchers said. See "Scan reveals early signs of Alzheimer's," at www.cbc.ca.

Brain Training Can Have Long-Lasting Benefits for Seniors [back to top]
Brief sessions of brain exercise can have long-lasting benefits for elderly people, helping them stay mentally fit for at least five years, one of the most rigorous tests of the "use-it-or-lose-it" theory suggests. For people age 73 on average, just 10 sessions - less time than it takes to stay physically fit - helped keep their brains sharp. The brain training involved hour-long classes and included exercises done on a computer. While it is uncertain if similar results would occur with mental exercise done at home, other research has shown that intellectual tasks such as crossword puzzles and reading can help keep the brain sharp as people grow old. See "Brain training can have long-lasting benefits for seniors: study," at chealth.canoe.ca.

Preparation Helps Kids Avoid Homesickness [back to top]
A few simple steps can help prevent an intense form of homesickness, pediatricians say. Up to 90 per cent of children attending camp feel some level of homesickness when they are away for the first time, research suggests. About one in 14 suffer an intense form that prevents them from eating or sleeping properly and keeps them preoccupied with thoughts of home. In the January issue of the journal Pediatrics, Thurber and his co-author, Dr. Edward Walton, a professor of emergency medicine and pediatrics at the University of Michigan, offer tips for parents to help prepare children for their stay away from home. See "Preparation helps kids avoid homesickness," at www.cbc.ca. An abstract with paid access to the article is available at pediatrics.aapublications.org.
    >> if the topic of child and youth mental health interests you, read the two most recent issues of Visions: BC's Mental Health and Addictions Journal on treatments and first responders for children and youth, available at www.heretohelp.bc.ca.

Diet Articles Trigger Unhealthy Behaviours in Girls [back to top]
A new study suggests reading articles about diet and weight loss could have unhealthy consequences within fve years. According to a study published in January's issue of the journal Pediatrics, teenage girls who frequently read magazine articles about dieting were more likely five years later to practice extreme weight-loss measures such as vomiting than girls who never read such articles. Girls in middle school who read dieting articles were twice as likely five years later to try to lose weight by fasting or smoking cigarettes, compared to girls who never read such articles. They were three times more likely to use such measures as vomiting or taking laxatives, the study found. See "Diet articles trigger unhealthy behaviours in girls," at www.cbc.ca.

Quitting Smoking? Cutting Back Over Time May Be Better Than Going ‘Cold Turkey' [back to top]
For people who resolve to quit smoking this New Year's, the only "cold turkey" they might have to deal with is the stuff in the refrigerator. A scientific review from the University of Vermont this month suggests many smokers trying to quit might be better off doing it gradually. Cutting back over time allows smokers to build on the psychological success of achieving cessation benchmarks; it also means they won't be as addicted when they do stop completely. There is, however, little way of knowing which tactic - abrupt or gradual - works best for each smoker. See "Cold turkey resolution unlikely to work," at www.canada.com.
    >> watch for the Spring issue of Visions on the topic of Tobacco, at www.heretohelp.bc.ca. If you are interested in sharing your personal story on the relationship between smoking and other addictions and/or mental health/illness, email bcpartners@heretohelp.bc.ca.

Brain May Repair Some Alcohol Damage [back to top]
Recovering alcoholics might be able to repair some of the damage drinking has done to their brains if they quit soon enough, European researchers say. In the January issue of the journal Brain, Bartsch and his colleagues report the results of their study, which used MRIs to measure the brain volume of 10 alcoholic men and five alcoholic women. Brains of alcoholics were scanned before and after they stopped drinking without medication. After 38 days off the bottle, brain volume increased by an average of nearly two per cent, the team found. Study subjects also performed better on the tests of their concentration. See "Brain repairs alcohol damage, scans suggest," at www.cbc.ca.

Psychological Treatments Reduce Back Pain [back to top]
Psychological treatments may help lower the intensity of chronic low back pain, a review suggests. Researchers evaluated 22 randomized trials published between 1982 and 2003 to evaluate the effects of psychological interventions on pain. The approaches improve outcomes such as depression and health-related quality of life as well as patients' experience of pain, the team concluded in the January issue of the journal Health Psychology. See "Psychological treatments reduce back pain: review," at www.cbc.ca.


New Programs and Resources

New Organization Focuses on Mental Health and Deafness [back to top]
The Canadian Society for Mental Health and Deafness was recently created to further develop awareness of the mental health needs of individuals who are deaf, deafened, hard of hearing and deaf-blind. The society's goals include research, advocacy, fundraising for service delivery, professional and public education and promotion of training for mental health workers on the specific needs of clients who are Deaf and hard of hearing. For further information contact Rene Rivard at eocmhd.rene@sympatico.ca or call 613-748-3057 (voice and TTY).

FRIENDS Program Offers Relief for Students Suffering Anxiety [back to top]
FRIENDS is school-based program designed to provide elementary school students with the tools to effectively deal with their emotions. The Ministry of Child and Economic Development and the Ministry of Education have co-funded the program that most schools will kick off in the new year and the school district has paid for teacher training. Learn more about the project at www.mcf.gov.bc.ca.

Depression Fuels Artist's Colourful Visions of Vancouver's Downtown Eastside [back to top]
Laurie Marshall says he spends his days in hell, by which he means he lives and works in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. Marshall, who has struggled for much of his adult life with crippling bouts of depression, draws and paints the world he sees around him, some aspects of which you might recognize from your forays into the Lower Mainland's most troubled neighborhood. One of the country's pre-eminent dealers in Inuit art, Marion Scott Gallery owner Judy Kardosh sees something unique in Marshall's work, and offered him his first gallery exhibition, which is on until January 14. See "Depression fuels artist's colourful visions from hell," at www.canada.com. For more information on the exhibition, visit www.marionscottgallery.com.

Skills Training Centre in New Westminster [back to top]
The Built Network, a pilot project of the National Network for Mental Health, opened its latest location in New Westminster. The program seeks to provide customer service skills and computer skills to enable people in the community to get employment in the customer service, retail, administrative, order desk or call centre environments. Its mandate is to empower people through skills enhancements and employment. The Built Network, which opened on Carnarvon Street in May, offers a seven-week program that includes customer service, personal development, professional development and sales components. The Built Network - Building Up Individuals Through Learning and Teaching - is a registered non-profit society that has six offices across Canada . For more information or to help the Built Network, call 604-517-5526.

US Anti-Stigma Website - What A Difference A Friend Makes [back to top]
The US government has launched a national campaign aimed at 18- to 25-year-olds to reduce stigma related to mental illness. According to the initiative's website, serious mental health problems are almost twice as prevalent in this age group as among the general population, but young people have much lower rates of help-seeking. Using the slogan "What a Difference a Friend Makes," the campaign aims to show how young people can support friends with mental health problems and that friendship is important to recovery. The initiative's website, which includes streaming videos of the public service announcements, is at www.whatadifference.org.

Mental Health Promotion Materials Designed by Youth [back to top]
Free postcards and posters promoting mental health, designed by youths for youths, are available on the Mind Your Mind website. The campaign was created by the program’s Anti-Stigma Fall Team 2006, an eight-member group ranging in age from 15 to 25. In a press release, team members say their campaign pursues the website’s mission of promoting mental health and reducing barriers to help-seeking among young people. For more information and to download the materials, see www.mindyourmind.ca.

Drinkingfacts.ca Website for Youth [back to top]
Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA) with funding from Canada 's Drug Strategy, Health Canada, has launched www.drinkingfacts.ca, a new youth website to raise awareness about the harms associated with high-risk drinking. Drinkingfacts.ca is targeted to youth 14 to 18 years of age, and based on extensive research and conversations with young Canadians. Information is presented in a variety of formats, including quizzes, Q & A, Did you know? and an ‘Alcopedia,' as well as the personal stories of youth told in candid videos and written format.

Online Alcohol Reality Check for Young Adults [back to top]
Substance Information LINK's online self-diagnosis test for young adults at www.alcoholreality.ca provides a quick check-in on the risks their drinking habits pose for affecting long-term health, causing immediate harm, and for developing dependence. The site also provides links to low-risk drinking guidelines, tips for quitting or cutting back, as well as other research-based information on alcohol use.

New Newsletter on Seniors Mental Health and Addictions [back to top]
The Older Persons Mental Health and Addictions Network (OPMHAN) has launched its new newsletter. Each issue of OPMHAN News will focus on a specific topic concerning older persons' mental health and addictions. The newsletters will also spotlight an organization, community service or group that is involved with the improvement of the lives of older people. Read the latest newsletter at www.opmhan.ca.

Alcohol Dependence and Misuse Among Older Gay and Lesbian People [back to top]
It is generally stated that the prevalence of substance abuse and dependence among people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transsexual is substantially higher than in the general population. As well, older gay and lesbian people may face particular issues around treatment because they feel vulnerable and fear discrimination, abuse, or social condemnation. "Alcohol dependence and misuse among older gay and lesbian people," available at www.agingincanada.ca provides an overview of the research and issues surrounding alcohol dependence and aging in gay and lesbian people. Includes a list of resources.

Access to Mental Health Services: The Role of the Doctor [back to top]
Family doctors are often a good place to start when a psychiatric condition is suspected. Ideally, a family doctor has a history with the individual and can assist in accessing the appropriate specialist services if they are needed. However, the reality is that not everyone has access to a family doctor. In the article, "Access to Mental Health Services: The role of the doctor," psychiatrist Paul Latimer offers his suggestions on gaining access to mental health services through means other than a family doctor, and becoming your own health advocate. Read the article at www.okanaganclinicaltrials.com.

How Overspending Can Cost Your Health – And How to Avoid it [back to top]
Long after the festivities are over, the credit card statements arrive and many Canadians find themselves dealing with holiday debt. That debt — and the anxiety that comes with it — can be bad for your health. Learn to recognize some of the signs of dangerous debt and how to avoid it in the article, "The High Health Cost of Debt," at www.canadian-health-network.ca.

How to Cut Down on Stress When the Power Goes Out [back to top]
Total disruption of everyday life can be an additional stress, agree Victoria psychologists. But, the key is to try and make the best of it, they say. Sitting by the fire talking, playing board games or reading by candlelight can be fun, said psychologist Stephen Lustig. One key to surviving a blackout is to get outside and not feel trapped in the house. See "How to cut down on stress when the power goes out," at www.canada.com.

Free To Fly: A Story of Manic Depression [back to top]
In the recent book, Free to Fly: A Story of Manic Depression, Toronto author Caroline Fei-Kwok shares her journey through mental illness, hospitalizations, and recovery. Along the way, readers will encounter topics such as clinical depression, ECT, social stigma, immigrant mental health, schizophrenia, a two-week coma as a result of a wrong combination of mendications prescribed by a psychiatrist, trips to Hong Kong, New Haven, and China. THe author is a past recipient of the Courage to Come Back Award and has published articles in the Toronto Star, Vancouver Sun, Psychiatric Services, Cross Currents, and Visions Journal. The book is available to purchase for $25 (or $15 for online e-book) at www.inclusion.com/bkfreetofly.html.

This Crisis, These Blessings: Essays on Womens' Experiences of Crisis [back to top]
Burnaby author, Deirdre Maultsaid, has published a book of lyrical essays descibed by the author as beautiful taboo-breaking, worth reading and valuable in counselling and medicine. This Crisis, These Blessings is a series of twelve beautiful experimental essays on womens' experiences of crisis, illness, rape, housework and family travel. These sensory, lyrical narratives of decision-making show women turning suffering into understanding, grief into poetry, and tragedy into renewal. The book is available to purchase for $19.95 on www.trafford.com.

Announcements

Federal Government Commits $526M to Homelessness [back to top]
The federal government will spend the same amount annually to combat homelessness in the next two years as the previous Liberal government did. Over two years, the new Homelessness Partnering Strategy will provide $270 million ($135 million a year) to help people who are already homeless, and $256 million to aid those at risk of being on the streets, said Diane Finley, minister of human resources and social development. But a spokeswoman for agencies that run such programs says that while Tuesday's announcement is a good start, the funding may not save all current programs. See "Federal government commits $526M to homelessness," at www.cbc.ca.

Newfoundland to Update Mental Health Legislation [back to top]
Newfoundland is updating its 35-year-old mental health legislation to ensure people will not be admitted into treatment indefinitely without a review. The province's Mental Health Act is the oldest in the country and does not require reviews of involuntary hospital and treatment facility admissions. Health Minister Tom Osborne says current mental health laws are not reflective of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and need updating. See "N.L. to update mental health legislation," at chealth.canoe.ca and "New mental health act overdue, N.L. minister," at www.cbc.ca.

10 by 10 Challenge to Increase Employment for Persons with Disabilities in BC [back to top]
There are currently 300,000 working-age people with disabilities in British Columbia – many of whom want to work. They have the motivation, education and abilities to be valuable members of our workforce and communities. Yet, they face an employment rate of 44%. The Minister's Council on Employment for Persons with Disabilities is inviting communities and industry sectors to join the 10 by 10 Challenge to increase employment for persons with disabilities in British Columbia by 10% by the year 2010. Download the 10 by 10 toolkit, read success stories and register your community and company at the 10 by 10 Challenge website at www.mhr.gov.bc.ca.

Courage To Come Back Awards Seeking Nominations – Due February 12 [back to top]
The Courage to Come Back awards, celebrating people who have demonstrated extraordinary courage in their recovery from adversity, are presented by Coast Mental Health each year. The awards recognize individuals in the categories of Medical, Physical Rehabilitation, Mental Health, social Adversity, Addiction and Youth. On Thursday April 19, 2007, Coast Mental Health will be hosting the 9th Annual Courage To Come Back Dinner at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver. Nominations are open to any resident of BC. The deadline for nominations is February 12, 2007. For more information, visit www.coastfoundation.com or email courage@coastmentalhealth.com.

Health Promotion and Education World Conference – Call for Abstracts Extended – Due January 12 [back to top]
International Union for Health Promotion and Education (IUHPE) World Conference has extended the deadline for abstracts of papers, workshops and symposia to be presented at the conference to January 12, at noon. The theme of the June 2007 conference is "Health promotion comes of age: research, policy and practice for the 21st century." The four sub-themes are reducing health inequalities, assets for health and development, effectiveness of health promotion, and transformations. For further details and access to the online abstract submission form, visit iuhpeconference.org.

Workplace Mental Health & Addiction: Research, Knowledge & Action – Call for Abstracts – Due January 15 [back to top]
BC Mental Health & Addiction Services and the Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction (CARMHA), Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, in collaboration with the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), are presenting a conference on mental health and addiction in the workplace to bring together researchers and stakeholders. The conference will build on five key areas: Workplace Prevention & Promotion; Disability Management and Return-to-Work; Diagnosis and Treatment; Stigma/Discrimination; Workplace Mental Health & Addiction Policies. Researchers, service providers, employers, unions and business representatives are invited to submit abstracts for oral presentations or poster sessions. Deadline for submission is January 15, 2007. Visit www.carmha.ca for guidelines and submission form.

Psychosis Treatment Adherence Study Seeking Participants [back to top]
A research team lead by Tania Lacomte, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, UBC is seeking people aged between 13 and 35 who have a primary diagnosis in the psychosis spectrum, had their first consultation with a physician/clinician about the psychotic symptoms within the last 2 years, and are receiving case management services or having regular contact with a primary clinician/health care worker. Participants will be asked to meet with a research assistance for an average of 90 minutes, complete some questionnaires, and will receive $20 for participating. Clinicians/health care workers will be asked for a brief description of the client's treatment adherence. For more information contact project coordinator, Caroline Greaves at 778-908-5194, 604-875-4111 Ext. 61728, or cgreave@interchange.ubc.ca.

Newborn Behaviour Study Seeking Expectant Mothers [back to top]
A research team lead by Dr. Fay Warnock, Assistant Professor, School of Nursing , UBC / Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research Career Scholar is seeking pregnant women - both those who are and those who are not experiencing depression – to participate in a newborn behaviour study. The study will investigate how babies are affected by their environment (caregiving, light, sound, etc.), as well as how they respond to everyday events, including stressful ones. For more information, contact Sylvia at 604-875-2000, local 6992 or sowens@cw.bc.ca, or visit research web page at www.bcchildrens.ca.

Manager, Concurrent Disorders Transitional Housing Program Position in Vancouver - Applications due January 15, 2007 [back to top]
Opening April 1, 2007, Triage Emergency Services & Care Society's Concurrent Disorders Transitional Housing Program supports 30 adults with a serious mental illness who are in recovery from a substance addiction in maintaining a substance-free lifestyle with maximum independence and integration into the community. Candidates for the Manager position will possess a MSW, MA or MSc in a relevant health discipline, 4 years recent related experience with individuals living with mental illness and in recovery from a substance use addiction, training in supervisory/managerial functions, first aid and CPR certification, and a driver's license. You're your resume and cover letter to jobs@triage.bc.ca or fax 604-254-3703, Visit www.triage.bc.ca for full job and program descriptions. Applications are due January 15, 2007.

Manager, Regional Clinic Positions in Kamloops, Prince George, Victoria, Nanaimo, Surrey, Vancouver [back to top]
Provincial Health Services Authority is seeking applicants for 6 full-time Manager, Regional Clinic positions. Reporting to the Senior Manager, Regional Clinics, you will supervise and coordinate the services of the regional clinic and catchment area. If you have a baccalaureate degree in Nursing along with current practicing registration as a Registered Nurse with the CRNBC or the CRPNBC, and a minimum of seven years' recent related clinical experience and two years working in a managerial/leadership position, you are invited to apply. Please forward your CV, quoting Competition #MHS-2006-1011, to: PHSA Specialty Nurse Recruitment, Suite 800- 1441 Creekside Drive, Vancouver, BC, V6J 4S7, Tel: 604-875-7216 Fax: 604-875-7253 or Email: nurses@phsa.ca. For more information, visit careers.phsa.ca.

Clinical Services Manager Position in Coquitlam [back to top]
Provincial Health Services Authority is seeking applicants for 6 full-time Manager, Regional Clinic positions. Reporting to the Director of Patient and Client Services, you are a self-directed and highly motivated leader looking to become an integral member of our management team. Responsible for ensuring the quality management of care delivery to patients and families, including managing and directing staff, you will oversee the service delivery budget and implementation of operational plans. In addition to a relevant degree in a health profession and current practicing registration with the associated professional association, you have a minimum of five years of recent clinical experience, including two years working in a managerial/leadership capacity. Experience working with psychiatric patients in a forensic or mental health setting and current CPR certification would be considered great assets. To apply, please forward your CV, quoting Competition #MHS-2006-1010 to: PHSA Specialty Nurse Recruitment, Suite 800 - 1441 Creekside Drive , Vancouver , BC V6J 4S7 E-mail: nurses@phsa.ca Fax: 604-875-7253, or Phone: 604-875-7216 / Toll Free: 1-866-744-7363. For more information, visit careers.phsa.ca.

Public Education Events

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
January 15 – Little Miss Sunshine
January 22 – Something New
January 29 – Fetching Cody

Seminars on Anxiety Disoders in Children and Youth [back to top]
The Anxiety Disorders Association of BC and the FORCE Society for Kids' Mental Health are proud to present a family skill-building seminar on anxiety disorders in children and youth. All seminars begin at 7pm. No registration is required for this FREE event. For more information contact info@anxietybc.com or 604-525-7597.
January 15 - Port Moody - Inlet Theatre, Port Moody City Hall, 100 New Port Drive
January 22 - Abbotsford - Garden Park Tower, 101 - 2825 Clearbrook Road
January 23 - Vancouver - HR MacMillan Centre, 1100 Chestnut Street
January 31 - Richmond - Richmond Cultural Centre, 7700 Minoru Gate
February 1 - Victoria - Victoria Public Library, Nellie McClung Br., 3950 Cedar Hill Road

Frames of Mind Mental Health Film Series [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. Screenings, accompanied by presentations and panel discussion, are held on the third Wednesday of each month. 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. Visit www.psychiatry.ubc.ca or www.cinematheque.bc.ca for more information.
January 17 – Shameless: The Art of Disability
with guest Bonnie Sherr Klein, director of Shameless
February 21 – The Sea Inside
with guest Dr. Romayne Gallagher, Physician Program Director, Providence Health Care Palliative Care Program, and Clinical Professor, UBC Division of Palliative Care.

Hope and Healing After a Suicide Loss - A Public Forum - January 11 [back to top]
Learn what might help you with your grief, how you can help others impacted by a suicide death, and hear stories of hope and healing from individuals bereaved by suicide. With keynote speakers Michael Myers, Psychiatrist and Clinical Professor, and Carla Fine, author and lecture - co-authors of recently published book Touched by Suicide: Hope & Healing after Loss. 7pm at St. Paul 's Hospital Conference Centre. By donation with proceeds to World Suicide Prevention Day, Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention. For more information contact vssc20@yahoo.ca or 604-872-1811.

MDA Education Evening – Suicide is Everyone's Business – January 18 [back to top]
Mood Disorders Association (MDA) presents a free education event with Dr. Erika Horwitz, Psychiatrist and Clinical Coordinator, SFU Health Counselling and Career Centre, on a very important topic - Suicide Is Everyone's Business: Ask a Question. Save A Life. Audience questions will be accepted following the presentation. 7pm at Sunrise Hall, 1950 Windermere St. (at East 4th Ave.), Vancouver. For more information, contact call 604-873-0103, email info@mdabc.net, or visit www.mdabc.net.

Promoting Healthy Living: Multicultural Health Fair – March 3 [back to top]
A combination of fun and educational activities, the Multicultural Health Fair is a free community event that takes place each February/March. The first Multicultural Health Fair took place in 2005 and last year it became the largest multicultural health fair in Canada . This year's theme is "Promoting Multicultural Health." Free admission. 10am-4pm at the Croatian Cultural Centre, 3250 Commercial Drive. For more information, visit www.amssa.org.

Strengthening Family and Youth Voices Forum – February 9 [back to top]
CMHA BC is hosting a public forum on our Strengthening Family and Youth Voices project, as an opportunity to learn about this province-wide project and meet youth and families from the six project sites across BC. The project explores the emerging role of peer support and mutual aid in child and youth mental health, with the specific goals of developing supports that are grounded in lived experiences. Funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada. At SFU Downtown, Harbour Centre, 515 West Hastings St., Vancouver. Lunch included with registration. Early registration: $50; after January 15, 2007: $75. For event details, visit www.voicesbc.org. To learn more about the project, visit www.cmha.bc.ca or email Jennifer Sweeney, Provincial Coordinator at jsweeney@cmha.bc.ca.

Courses and Workshops

Mental Health Works Workshops [back to top]
Mental Health Works provides organizations with the tools and resources they need to effectively address issues involving mental illness in the workplace. Informational presentations and skills building workshops are available for various audiences in the workplace - from employees at all levels, to union representatives to senior management. Cost: "Complex Issues. Clear Solutions" full-day workshop $210 per participant, plus expenses (12-16 participants); "Complex Issues. Clear Solutions." series of three 3-hour workshops $350 per participant, plus expenses (12-16 participants); 3-hour workshops $1500; "Issues and Solutions" workshop $1500; other 2-hour workshops $800 - $1000. Learn more at www.mentalhealthworks.ca or contact Margaret Tebbutt at 1-800-555-8222 or mentalhealthworks@cmha.bc.ca for more information.
    >> don't miss our pre-conference Mental Health Works workshops - March 6, 2007. Visit www.bottomlineconference.ca for details and registration.
"Complex Issues. Clear Solutions" Management Workshop (full-day 7-hour workshop, or three 3-hour workshops) - Learn to effectively address the complex issues around mental health problems in the workplace. This award-winning workshop is a practical and interactive multimedia learning experience. Includes materials and resources.
Awareness of Workplace Mental Health (1 hour) - An engaging look at what it is like to experience conditions such as depression or anxiety at work
Workplace Influence (2 hours) - Employees consider ways to positively influence both their own mental health and that of their co-workers.
Issues and Solutions (2 hours) - Provides a quick overview of the Mental Health Works approach to building awareness, recognition and strategies around mental health issues in the workplace.
Assisting Workers with Mental Health Issues (3 hours) - For union representatives and stewards. A unique look at the role of the union in helping members through workplace conflict, accommodation and disability.
Affecting Workplace Mental Health (3 hours) - Looks at the systemic and organizational factors that affect the mental health or workers and asks participants to create action plans for those factors that affect their own workplace situation.
Human Resources: Return-to-Work Strategies ( 3 to 4 hours) - For human resource personnel involved in the return-to-work or performance management of people with mental health issues. Case studies engage partici[ants in considering approaches to the more difficult sitations.
Occupational Health Strategies: Return-to-work after Mental Illness (3 to 4 hours) - Addresses challenges such as working with physicians, uncooperative supervisors or management, and employees who do not seem able to access effective treatment.
Managing the Return-to-Work (3 hours) - For managers and supervisors who have a good working knowledge of mental health and communication skills, including those who have attended previous Mental Health Workshops and want to get more ‘hands on’ in how they juggle the competing interests of the returning employee, co-workers, organizational demands and their own time management

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, is designed to provide leaders in the non-profit sector with the skill and knowledge they need to be successful. From 9am - 4pm, registration at 8:30am. Workshop fee: $65 per session. Includes refreshments, materials and lunch. Coast Capital Savings member and group rates available. For information on bursaries, email info@cnpm.ca. For the full workshop schedule or to register www.cnpm.ca.
Lower Mainland - The Diamond Alumni Centre, SFU Burnaby Campus, 8888 University Drive
February 15 - Making Change Work
March 13 - Breathing Life into Your Strategic Plan
Fraser Valley - Ramada Plaza and Conference Centre, 26035 N. Parallel Road, Abbotsford
March 14 - Breathing Life into Your Strategic Plan
Victoria - Room 150, 1515 McTavish Road, Sidney
February 13 - Making the Change Work
March 13 - Breathing Life into Your Strategic Plan
Nanaimo - 11 Bastion Street, Nanaimo
March 7 - Tips and Tools for Developing Effective Work Teams

ApCampus Addictions Professional Online Learning Program – Begins Mid-January [back to top]
apCampus offers online learning for addiction professionals and other health care providers seeking professional knowledge and/or educational credits toward professional licensing, certification, and/or maintenance of certification. Winter 2007 courses begin mid-January and include Fundamentals of Addictions, Methadone Maintenance, Pharmacology of Addiction, and Treatment for Older Adults with Addictions. apCampus also offers a Tobacco Addictions Specialist Certification Program. Cost: $250 to $350 per course (10 to 12 weeks). For more information visit www.apcampus.com.

Free Strengthening Families Together Program – Begins Mid-January [back to top]
BC Schizophrenia Society is offering a free 10-session course to provide information, skill-building and support to families and friends of someone living with a mental illness. Topics will include information about mental illness, medication and treatments for mental illness, as well as how to cope with and support your loved one living with a mental illness. This group will begin the third week in January in the evening in both Richmond and Vancouver. Register by contacting Jessica Smits at 604-247-1884 or jessicasmits@bcss.org.

Advocating for Change – February 1 [back to top]
Advocacy is one of the critical tools for advancing the well being of people with disabilities. Whether advocating on behalf of yourself or a family member or lobbying for policy reform we are called to understand the ‘art' of influencing. However, navigating the rapids of policy, politics and power is not easy. In this workshop, Al Etmanski will peel away the mystique of advocacy and lobbying and provide a framework for understanding systems; analyzing the political terrain; strategizing and implementing practical plans. The focus will be on a relationship-based approach to lobbying, advocacy and influencing. Presented by Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network (PLAN). Cost: $60.00. From 6 - 9pm at #260-3665 Kingsway, Vancouver. Snacks will be provided. To register, please contact inquiries@plan.ca

Setting the Stage: Addressing Tobacco Use – Free Workshops for Health Professionals – February 12 – 16 [back to top]
Do you wish you had a better way to help your clients/patients quit their tobacco use? Setting the Stage is designed to provide all healthcare professionals serving the residents of Fraser Health with the skills necessary to integrate addressing tobacco use into daily practice, provide free, evidence-based cessation materials to clients/patients, utilize appropriate guidelines and protocols, and provide appropriate referrals to a Fraser Health central intake system for all tobacco users. The workshops are FREE and open to any healthcare professionals serving the Fraser Health region. Space is limited. Registration closes February 5. For registration or information call 604-582-7900, fax 604-582-4811 or email quitnow@fraserhealth.ca.
February 12 – Mental Health & Addictions
February 13 – Primary Care/ Hospitalized Tobacco Users
February 14 – Aboriginal
February 15 – Perinatal – Combines Tobacco / FASD Training
February 16 – Youth

Tax Tips For Families of a Relative With a Disability – February 22 [back to top]
For families of a relative with a disability, working out the various expenses and deductions permitted can be a confusing process. PLAN is offering a 2-hour tax seminar that will assist families to claim the deductions they are entitled to. Accountants from CGW Chartered Accountants will review the Disability Tax Credit, claimable medical expenses, the refundable medical expense supplement and the caregiver amount. Discussion will focus on disability supports deduction and what to claim even if your relative is not living at home. There will be plenty of time for questions and answers. Presented by Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network (PLAN). Cost: $40.00. From 6 – 8pm at #260-3665 Kingsway, Vancouver. Snacks will be provided. To register contact inquiries@plan.ca.

Conferences

Free Symposium on Human Rights for People with Mental Illness - January 29 [back to top]
Presented by Coast Mental Health, this public symposium will cover such topics as human rights for people with mental illness, 'psychosiphobia' - stigma towards people with mental illness, housing as a human right, and living with schizophrenia. Speakers include Stephen Lewis, the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy fir HIV/AIDS in Africa. FREE to attend. Pre-registration is required. Career fair: 5 - 6:30pm. Symposium: 7pm the Bell Performing Arts Centre, 6250 - 144 Street, Surrey. For details and registration visit www.realizingourpotential.com.

Roundtable on the Future of Homecare in Gatineau, Quebec - February 5 [back to top]
Homecare represents one of the fastest growing sectors of health spending in Canada, and demand for homecare services is only expected to rise. This roundtable will include a broad range of perspectives, from policymakers to practitioners, and will raise a wide array of issues in an effort to both shape a vision for the future of home and community-based health care in Canada , and to identify practical recommendations on how best to move toward that vision.
The Public Policy Forum is an independent, non-partisan research organization dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in government. Conference fee: $175. At the Hilton Lac-Leamy, located at 3, boulevard du Casino, in Gatineau. For more information contact dianne.gravel@ppforum.ca or visit www.ppforum.ca.
      >> if the topic of home care interests you, check out the CMHA National report, "Home Care and Mental Health: From Policy to Action," available at www.cmha.ca.

BC Psychopharmacology Conference – February 23 + 24 [back to top]
BC Mental Health and Addiction Services invites you to attend a conference on the pharmacotherapy of psychiatric illnesses. Conference topics are not only relevant to pharmacists practicing, or interested in the field of psychiatry, but also to psychiatrists, general practitioners and nurses involved in the care of the mentally ill. Conference fee: $250; Early bird, student, and single-day rates available. Registration includes course materials, health breaks, lunch and dinner. At the River Rock Casino Resort, 8811 River Road, Richmond. For more information call 604-524-7518 or 604-524-7695, or visit www.bcmhas.ca.

Participation in the Workplace – March 2 [back to top]
The Disabilities Health Research Network (DHRN) is pleased to present its 2nd annual conference on participation in the workplace. This is a unique opportunity for DHRN members and individuals with an interest in disability health research to meet and exchange ideas. Keynote speaker presentation and facilitated discussions will range from in home work by mothers with disabilities to the exclusion of people with disabilities from paid employment. In Vancouver. Registration is FREE but space is limited. To register or for more details email dhrn@ubc.ca or call Sylvie Zebroff, DHRN Coordinator at (250) 807-8793.

2007 Bottom Line Conference – Mental Illness in the Workplace: The Elephant in the Room - March 7 [back to top]
CMHA BC Division invites you to participate in our annual conference on reducing the monumental personal and economic costs of mental illness in the workplace. Gain insight, be inspired and learn how attention to mental health and mental illness in the workplace will help retain valuable employees, increase employee health, well-being and productivity, as well as decrease absenteeism and disability claims. This year's speakers include Margaret Trudeau, Linda Duxbury, Bill Wilkerson, and Alan Young. Conference fee: $395; Early bird special: $325; see the registration page for special offers. 7am - 5pm at the Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Centre, 999 Canada Place, Vancouver. Learn more and register at www.bottomlineconference.ca. Early bird registration ends January 31.
    >> don't miss our pre-conference Mental Health Works workshops - March 6, 2007. Learn hands-on skills for addressing mental illness in the workplace. Visit www.bottomlineconference.ca for details and registration.

Changing Behaviour, Changing Lives: Alcohol and Co-occuring Conditions – March 8 [back to top]
Many individuals simultaneously suffer from mental illness, problem alcohol and drug use, and other medical or physical disorders, resulting in enormous individual suffering and societal costs. The BC Mental Health and Addictions Research Network invites you to take part in our 2007 Research Colloquium which will feature leading experts in the field of alcohol and co-occurring conditions. Registration is FREE but online registration is required. 9am – 4pm at Fletcher Challenge Theatre, SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver. For more information or to register visit www.cpdkt.ubc.ca.

Canadian Conference on Men's Health in Victoria – March 21 - 24 [back to top]
The Well Foundation Society and the Prostate Centre will be hosting the first-ever Canadian Conference on Men's Health, where leading experts in medicine, bio-psycho-social sciences and the public policy arena will address various issues affecting the health and wellness of men. Among the topics being covered are the lifecycle of the male, healthy living and prevention, men's sexuality and reproductive health, healthy environments and working conditions, and mental health, problematic substance use and addictions. At the Victoria Conference Centre, Victoria. For more information, see www.menshealthcanada.ca for contact Marischal at (250) 472-7644.

Mental Health and the Justice System Across the Lifespan – March 28 – 30 [back to top]
The BC Forensic Psychiatric Services Commission, BC Youth Forensic Psychiatric Services, the Alberta Mental Health Board and the UBC Department of Psychiatry is hosting the 4 th Annual Forensic Psychiatry Conference. CMHA BC's Camia Weaver will be presenting, "Before We Get to Court...Police Response to Persons with Mental Illness," at 3-3:45pm on March 28. At Victoria Conference Centre, Victoria . For additional information or conference registration contact Barbara Bell or Edna Turnbull at 604-524-7518 or 604-524-7173 or email bbell@bcmhs.bc.ca or eturnbull@bcmhs.bc.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