VOLUME 54: July 2007 | online at www.cmha.bc.ca/enews/enewsjuly07.htm

CMHA News
New Peer Support Resources for Families and Youth
Mark the Date for CMHA BC's Annual General Meeting
CMHA National Announces Dr. Taylor Alexander as New CEO
Mental Health Works Program Wins Another National Award
CMHA National Develops Curriculum Resource for Secondary Schools
CMHA's National Consumer Advisory Council Recommends Examining Power Relationships
CMHA South Okanagan Similkameen Branch Seeking Executive Director
CMHA White Rock/South Surrey Branch Annual General Meeting
CMHA Alberta Launches Online Newsletter
Children's Mental Health Series in Chinese
Vancouver/Burnaby Branch Special Events
North Shore Health Lecture Series

Featured Program:
Duncan Kids Help CMHA Feed the Homeless

Canadian Research
Telepsychiatry Can Be As Effective as Face-to-Face Consultation
As Many Residential Care Facilities for Persons with Mental Illness as for Elderly
Mental Health Issues Linked to Many Deaths in Prison
Mental Health Needs of Rural and Remote Women Require Attention

CMHA Mailbox:
Affordable Housing

Research From Around the World
Spirituality Aids in Mental Health Recovery
Ethnic Minorities in US May Prefer Counselling to Medication for Depression
10-Year Study Shows Improvement in American Attitudes on Mental Illness
Worriers at Higher Risk for Age-Related Memory Loss
More Than 30% of American Adults Have Abused Alcohol

New Programs and Resources
New Clinics to Help Veterans with Service-Related Psychological Injuries
Research Update on Children and Disruptive Behaviour
Stories of Strength and Courage Video on Supported Housing
Multi-Lingual Photonovellas in Educate About Mental Illness and Addiction
Highlights From Parental Mental Illness Forum Held in Chilliwack
Mental Health and Addiction in the Workplace Presentations Online
Fact Sheet on Ethnoracial Issues and Home and Community Care
Developing Better Non-English Health Materials

Announcements
Mental Health Commission of Canada Seeks Board Members
Mental Health Commission Seeks Input for Anti-Stigma Campaign
Awards Honour BC's Psychologically Healthy Workplaces
Vancouver Chief Constable Wins Schizophrenia Society Award
Victoria Police Unveils Gentler Handcuffs for People With Mental Ilness
Alberta Government Expands Mental Health Research Funding
Journalist, Scientists and Advocacy Group Honoured at Bipolar Disorder Conference
FDA Asks For Changes to Suicide Warning on Antidepressant Labels
International Art Exhibition on Mental Health Seeking Submissions
Nominations Open for Spirit of Hope Awards in Immigrant Mental Health
Seeking Participants for Study on Risk Factors for Postpartum Depression and Psychosis

Public Education Events
Movie Mondays in Victoria
Chinese Teen Support Group
Bipolar Education Night
Medication and Spirituality in Recovery from Concurrent Disoders
Frames of Mind Mental Health Film Series – Crimes and Misdemeanors & Zelig
MDA of BC Education Evening – Coping with Depression in the Workplace
CBC Documentary on Using Comedy to Fight Mental Illness and Stigma
How Families Cope: Stories from People Who’ve Managed Well
Sharing Our Success Stories - Recovery

Courses and Workshops
Mental Health Works Workshops
Headlines' Theatre for Living Training Workshop

Conferences
Voices From the Present: Women’s Addiction and Trauma Issues in Hamilton, ON
Showcasing New Initiatives in Psychosocial Rehabilitation in BC

CMHA News

New Peer Support Resources for Families and Youth [back to top]
CMHA BC Division is excited to offer new resources to help BC communities improve mental health outcomes for youth and their families through peer support and collaborative planning. The resources were developed as part of Strengthening Family and Youth Voices, a 2-year project demonstrating how strengthening family and youth involvement, and networks of peer support and collaboration with service providers improves outcomes for children and youth who use the mental health system - and their families. The key resources developed as part of the project include 'how-to' guides on building peer support groups for youth with mental health problems and their families, an environmental scan of the role of peer support in child and youth mental health in BC, and the project final evaluation report. Check them out at www.cmha.bc.ca.

Mark the Date for CMHA BC's Annual General Meeting – September 15 [back to top]
CMHA BC Division invites you to join us at our Annual General Meeting where we will reveal results of the CMHA BC Division Board election, present the winners of the Lorne Fraser Educational Fund, as well as hear from an exciting speaker. Stay tuned to www.cmha.bc.ca for more details to come!

CMHA National Announces Dr. Taylor Alexander as New CEO [back to top]
CMHA's national office is proud to announce Dr. Taylor Alexander as Chief Executive Officer, effective mid-August 2007. Dr. Alexander brings a very distinguished career to this position, with both professional and volunteer experience in health care, as well as extensive experience in academia and research. He has been deeply involved in mental health-related activities, spanning roles as a psychotherapist, manager, university teacher, researcher, board member and policy advocate. He is also recognized for his national leadership and advocacy on a wide range of policy issues related to health and social services and the determinants of health. Dr. Alexander will be based in Ottawa. See "Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), National proudly announces Taylor Alexander as new Chief Executive Officer," at www.newswire.ca.

Mental Health Works Program Wins Another National Award [back to top]
Congratulations to the Canadian Mental Health Association's Mental Health Works program, which has just been honoured by the Canadian Council on Learning as an innovative and effective education program at the council's inaugural "Sharing the Flame: Recognizing Excellence in Learning" conference. Initiated by Ontario Division and now offered across BC by BC Division and many CMHA branches, Mental Health Works training workshops provide organizations with the tools and resources they need to effectively address issues involving mental illness and mental health in the workplace. There are tailored workshops of varying lengths for senior managers, frontline managers and union representatives. Other honourees include the National Network for Mental Health's BUILT Network workplace skills development program for persons with mental illness. Visit www.ccl-cca.ca or details.
  >> interested in improving mental health in your workplace? Learn about Mental Health Works workplace training workshops at www.cmha.bc.ca.

CMHA National Develops Curriculum Resource for Secondary Schools [back to top]
CMHA National has developed a new mental health and high school curriculum supplement to help increase student's understanding of both mental health and mental illness, and improve attitudes about mental illness. The resource combines collaborative learning strategies and interactive, multimedia tools to engage students in active learning, and contaings easy-to-use lesson plans and activites to help teachers deliver a range of secondary school courses. The free resource is available at www.cmha.ca/highschoolcurriculum.

CMHA's National Consumer Advisory Council Recommends Examining Power Relationships [back to top]
The Canadian Mental Health Association should examine power relationships among consumers and staff, says its National Consumer Advisory Council. The council's discussion paper, Power, Paternalism and Partnerships, is based on a document from the United Kingdom called Power in Strange Places. The new document asks more than a dozen questions of CMHA related to three areas: power imbalance and the need to recognize when control is being exercised over consumers, paternalism and the need to avoid tokenism in consumer participation, and partnerships between consumers, staff and volunteers in the recovery process. The authors say that answering the questions posed in the paper will help CMHA better understand its role in serving mental health consumers. See "Power, Paternalism and Partnerships," at www.cmha.ca.

CMHA South Okanagan Similkameen Branch Seeking Executive Director [back to top]
The CMHA South Okanagan Similkameen Branch is looking for a leader with vision, passion, and a keen desire to promote mental health and increase support for the recovery of people experiencing mental illness. Are you the one? Are you organized, excited by your accomplishments and love taking on new challenges? The Executive Director position for a nation-wide voluntary organization is responsible for operational and financial management and reporting, implementing directives of the Board, provision of leadership to the staff and program teams, fundraising, and liaison with other organizations, agencies and government bodies. Use your communication and interpersonal skills to run a client-centered service program and build awareness of and sensitivity to issues facing the mental health community today. Must have a Bachlelor's degree in business, social service or related field or equivalent in experience and education, as well three years of managerial experience in social service or related field.This rewarding position is currently part-time (.69 FTE) with potential for full-time status. Salary will be in accordance with HEABC guidelines. For more information, contact (250) 493-8999.

CMHA White Rock/South Surrey Branch Annual General Meeting – July 9 [back to top]
CMHA White Rock/South Surrey Branch invites everyone to join them for some laughs with branwen at their Annual General Meeting. branwen has been doing comedy around Vancouver and the Lower Mainland for a number of years. Come prepared to hear some mental health-related comedy. Enjoy h ealthy refreshments and a chance to become a member of the White Rock/South Surrey Canadian Mental Health Association. 7pm at Java Express, 15090 North Bluff Road, White Rock (Corner of North Bluff and Foster). For more information, please call 604-536-2486.

CMHA Alberta Launches Online Newsletter [back to top]
CMHA Alberta Division has launched CMHA.AB Online, a new electronic newsletter designed to increase awareness of mental health developments and issues within Alberta. Their first issue includes articles on a new mental health campaign, the recent Housing First conference, and a review of Mental Health Week. Read CMHA.AB Online, or sign up for your free subscription on their website at www.cmha.ab.ca.

Children's Mental Health Series in Chinese [back to top]
CMHA Vancouver/Burnaby Branch and the Cap-C Project of the Strathcona Community Centre are presenting an educational series on children's mental health in Chinese. Facilitated by Dr. Sze Oi Lau, Art Psychotherapist, Dr. Art Training Centre. Cost: $20 for the whole series (subsidies are available). 10am to 12noon at Strathcona Community centre Centre, 601 Keefer Street, Vancouver . For more information or registration contact Stella at stella.lee.vb@cmha.bc.ca or 604-872-4902 / 604-603-0332 or Lily at 604-251-4945. July 7 – What Will Affect Children's Development
July 16 – Children's Mental Heatlh Crisis I: depression, anxiety, ODC and eating disorders
July 23 – Children's Mental Health Crisis II: ADHD, autism, psychosis
July 30 – Children's Emotional and Behavioural Problems

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.
July 11 – Farmer's Market at Riley Park
July 13 – Vancouver Folk Music Festival
July 16 –Yoga Session
July 20 – Richmond Night Market
July 23 – Victoria Day Trip
July 27 – Strathcona Architectural Tour

North Shore Health Lecture Series [back to top]
The free weekly Health Lecture Series organized by CMHA North and West Vancouver Branch 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.
July 11 – Gentle Laughter Yoga
July 18 – Ayurvedic Lifestyle and You
July 25 – Feng Shui/Chinese Astrology and Your Mental Health
August 1 – Spirituality: Opening to Meaning and Hope
August 8 – Finding Your Passion

Featured CMHA Program: Duncan Kids Help CMHA Feed the Homeless   Local kids are helping feed street people while Duncan's planned shelter complex is designed. Bench elementary school students donated $2,000 last week to Cowichan's Canadian Mental Health Association branch after staging a benefit bowl-a-thon. CMHA's Christina Martens says Bench's booty will feed a weekly volunteer meal program distributing food to homeless folks Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Duncan's Mound. She realizes needs vagrants may never end, but it will be reduced after the city's shelter opens sometime late next year. Construction starts in January on the long-awaited $3-million facility spearheaded by BC Housing on a Beverly Street lot across from school district headquarters. CMHA, Housing and community groups are mulling budgets and three design plans drafted by Jensen Group architects of Victoria . Renderings for the complex offering 15 overnight beds, 22 transitional apartments and offices for various social workers should be ready this week, Martens says. Green aspects are also being considered with input from Cowichan Green Communities. The public will be asked to name the shelter to be accessed via Lewis Street. "We'll have some kind of community contest to get people to submit what they think is a good name," she said. Once the shelter opens, Martens hopes planning will begin on affordable housing on the same site bought by Housing for about $600,000. "Affordable housing is our dream, but we have to work on the resource centre first." Meanwhile, CMHA and its volunteers are preparing to accept Valley street people overnight starting in October at the three churches that helped them last winter. "It's not optimum, but at least it's something," she says of cold-weather beds and meals at Seventh-Day Adventist, Duncan United, Bethel Baptist churches. Donations to the shelter and homelessness programs can be made at CMHA Cowichan Valley Branch, 371 Festubert, Duncan, or call (250) 746-5521 Reprinted from the Duncan News Leader and Pictorial. (2007, June 23) Kids chip in as homeless house moves forward, p.9. To learn more about services provided by CMHA branches in BC, visit the CMHA BC website at www.cmha.bc.ca.

Canadian Research

Telepsychiatry Can Be As Effective as Face-to-Face Consultation [back to top]
Psychiatric consultations and follow-ups can be performed as effectively by phone as face-to-face, according to new Ontario-based research published in the June issue of Psychiatric Services. 495 participants were randomly divided them into groups receiving consultation either face-to-face or by telepsychiatry. Based on several measures, including hospitalization and improved scores on mental health scales, the researchers found that the outcomes were equivalent. The authors caution that their study examined only consultation and brief follow-up, so telepsychiatry may or may not be as effective at delivering other services, such as psychotherapy.Telepsychiatry was also 10% cheaper than face-to-face contact which, in this study, involved four psychiatrists travelling from London to Thunder Bay. Another study in Psychiatric Services also suggests that the costs of conducting structured clinical interviews by telepsychiatry are less than face-to-face interviews. See "Is Telepsychiatry Equivalent to Face-to-Face Psychiatry? Results from a Randomized Controlled Equivalence Trial." An abstract with paid access to the full text is available at ps.psychiatryonline.org. The American study, "An Economic Evaluation of Telehealth Data Collection with Rural Populations," is available in abstract, with paid access to the full text, at ps.psychiatryonline.org.

As Many Residential Care Facilities for Persons with Mental Illness as for Elderly [back to top]
Residential care facilities for persons with mental disorders are as numerous as facilities for the elderly, according to a report published by Statistics Canada on residential care facilities in Canada for the 2004/2005 reporting period. The report defines residential care facilities as homes "with four beds or more that are funded, licensed or approved by provincial/territorial departments of health and/or social services." According to the report, there were 4,199 residential care facilities, serving 230,550 residents in Canada in 2004/2005. Facilities for the elderly numbered 1,952 and served 189,325 residents (82%). Homes for persons with mental disorders were the second largest group with 1,951 facilities serving 33,234 residents (14.4%), an increase from 32,116 residents last year. See "Residential Care Facilities 2004/2005," at www.statcan.ca.

Mental Health Issues Linked to Many Deaths in Prison [back to top]
Gaps in suicide prevention and a shortage of mental health services in prison have been identified as issues of concern in over 40% of unnatural deaths in Canadian prisons, according to a report by the federal correctional investigator. Of the 82 deaths in custody from 2001-2005 examined by boards of investigation and coroners, 36 involved mental health issues, programming, and suicide prevention. The investigator’s report, Deaths in Custody, also notes that in more than half of the cases, investigators noted that institutional staff failed to record relevant medical or mental health information in inmate files or to share the relevant information with others who worked with the inmates in question. In some cases, previous suicide attempts were not noted in inmates’ files. See "Deaths in Custody," at www.oci-bec.gc.ca.
   >> if the topic of mental illness and criminal justice interests you, check out the issue of Visions Journal issue on Criminal Justice on the HeretoHelp.bc.ca website.

Mental Health Needs of Rural and Remote Women Require Attention [back to top]
The Prairie Women’s Health Centre of Excellence has published an analysis of the Kirby-Keon report in the context of the mental health needs of women living in rural and remote areas in Saskatchewan. The Kirby-Keon report, formally titled Out of the Shadows at Last: Transforming Mental Health, Mental Illness and Addiction Services in Canada, was published by the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology. The authors note a lack of a gender-specific analysis in the report, and argue that "such an analysis would have led to the stronger identification of family violence, sexual abuse and other abuse as a critical factor in addressing and preventing mental health problems for girls and women." The authors discuss several priorities for women living in rural and remote areas in Saskatchewan and provide suggestions to help guide the process of improving health services for women living with a mental illness in rural and remotes areas of Canada. See “Rural and Remote Women and the Kirby-Keon Report on Mental Health. A Preliminary Gender-Place Analysis,” at www.uwinnipeg.ca.
   >> if the topic of women's mental health interests you, check out the issue of Visions Journal issue on Women on the HeretoHelp.bc.ca website.

Research from around the World

Spirituality Aids in Mental Health Recovery [back to top]
Spirituality aids in the recovery process for persons with mental illness, according to a study published in the spring issue of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal. A study of 1,835 participants at consumer-run drop-in centres and clubhouses in Michigan found that, for two-thirds of the participants, spirituality was important in their lives. The study also found that having more depressive and psychotic symptoms was linked to having spiritual beliefs, a finding that contradicts some previous studies. The authors suggest that spiritual activities may help one see struggles as temporary, an attitude consistent with the recovery process. The authors suggest addressing spirituality in consumer programs by adding a spirituality domain to assessments, talking to members about their spirituality, and training members and staff to lead discussions on spirituality. See "Relevance of Spirituality for People with Mental Illness Attending Consumer-Centered Services." An abstract with paid access to the full text is available at prj.metapress.com.
   >> if the topic of mental health and spirituality interests you, check out the issue of Visions Journal issue on Spirituality and Recovery on the www.cmha.bc.ca website.

Ethnic Minorities in US May Prefer Counselling to Medication for Depression [back to top]
A study in the May/June 2007 issue of General Hospital Psychiatry found that members of some ethnic minority groups may prefer counselling over medication as a treatment for depression. The results are based on an Internet survey with 78,753 participants from all 50 states, including Asians/Pacific Islanders, African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, and caucasians. While the rate of depression was similar amongst all ethnic groups in the study, treatment preferences and attitudes toward depression differed. The authors found that members of ethnic minority groups were less likely than caucasians to believe that depression was caused by biological changes. They were also less likely to agree that medication is an effective treatment option for depression. The authors also found that African Americans were the only group more likely than whites to prefer a health care provider of the same ethnicity. Asians/Pacific Islanders reported the highest sense of stigma from employers, families and friends. See "Ethnicity and Preferences for Depression Treatment." An abstract with paid access to the full text is available at www.sciencedirect.com.
   >> if the topic of cross-cultural mental health interests you, check out the issue of Visions Journal issue on Cross Cultrual Mental Health on the www.cmha.bc.ca website.

10-Year Study Shows Improvement in American Attitudes on Mental Illness [back to top]
Mental Health America, a non-profit dedicated to helping all people live mentally healthier lives, released a 10-year retrospective study showing significant progress in Americans' attitudes about mental health problems, but also continued shame and discomfort around these health problems. The study found that nearly three quarters of Amaricans view depression as a health problem rather than a personal weakness, compared with only 38% ten years ago. While the survey data shows that Americans are much more knowledgeable about the seriousness of mental illnesses, public acceptance of depression and - even more so for other mental health problems still lags behind that of other health issues, such as diabetes and cancer. See "10-year Retrospective Study Shows Progress in American Attitudes About Depression and Other Mental Health Issues," at www.nmha.org.
   >> if the topic of stigma interests you, check out the issue of Visions Journal issue on Stigma and Discrimination on the HeretoHelp.bc.ca website.

Worriers at Higher Risk for Age-Related Memory Loss [back to top]
People who easily get stressed out may be more likely to develop memory problems than those who are more laid back, say researchers who tracked early changes linked to Alzheimer's disease. The team analyzed the results of two studies on more than 1,200 people with no memory problems who were followed for up to 12 years. The researchers found that participants who often experienced negative emotions like depression and anxiety were 40% more likely to develop memory loss that may occur before dementia. See "Worriers show higher risk for age-related memory loss: study," at www.cbc.ca.

More Than 30% of American Adults Have Abused Alcohol [back to top]
More than 30% of American adults have abused alcohol or suffered from alcoholism at some point in their lives, and few have received treatment, according to a new government study. Alcoholics who got treatment first received it, on average, at about age 30 — eight years after they developed dependence on drinking, and only 24% of alcoholics reported receiving any treatment at all, researchers reported. About 42% of men and about 19% of women reported a history of either alcohol abuse or alcoholism during their lives. The study, appearing in the July issue of Archives of General Psychiatry, was based on a new analysis of the 2001-2002 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions. The survey involved more than 43,000 face-to-face interviews with a representative sample of Americans, ages 18 and older. See "Alcoholism Study Shows High Stats," at www.time.com. See also "Prevalence, Correlates, Disability, and Comorbidity of DSM-IV Alcohol Abuse and Dependence in the United States." An abstract with paid access to the full text is available at archpsyc.ama-assn.org.
   >> if the topic of alcohol interests you, check out the issue of Visions Journal issue on Alcohol on the HeretoHelp.bc.ca website.

New Programs and Resources

New Clinics to Help Veterans with Service-Related Psychological Injuries [back to top]
Veterans Affairs Canada will be opening five new Operational Stress Injury Clinics for Veterans and members of the Canadian Forces who are living with a mental health conditions as a result of their service to Canada. Services will include standardized assessment, treatment, prevention and family support. Educational programs as well as individual, group, and family counselling will also be available at some locations. See www.vac-acc.gc.ca for more information.
   >> if the topic of trauma and mental illness interests you, check out the issue of Visions Journal issue on Trauma and Victimization on the HeretoHelp.bc.ca website.

Research Update on Children and Disruptive Behaviour [back to top]
The Spring issue of Children’s Mental Health Research Quarterly, produced by the Children’s Health Policy Centre at Simon Fraser University, provides a snapshot of the best currently available research on children’s behavioural well-being. The online journal includes information on the prevalence, causes and costs of not intervening disruptive behaviours, as well as research reviews on effectively preventing and treating disruptive behaviours. Read the the Spring issue at www.childhealthpolicy.sfu.ca/quarterly.
   >> if the topic of children's mental health interests you, check out the issues of Visions Journal issue on First Responders and Treatments for Young People on the HeretoHelp.bc.ca website.

Stories of Strength and Courage Video on Supported Housing [back to top]
Vancouver Coastal Health’s Mental Health and Addiction Supported Housing Framework has produced an short video on supportive housing, approximately 12 minutes long, telling the personal stories of 3 individuals who faced the challenge of mental illness and addiction and how supported housing, treatment, and family support helped them in their recovery. It brings a human face to mental illness and addiction and to remind us that by focusing on strengths and abilities, people can live full and happy lives in a place that is understanding and welcoming. “Stories of Strength” is available on the City of Vancouver’s Supportive Housing Strategy webpage at www.vancouver.ca and on the Vancouver Coastal Health website at www.vch.ca/mental.

Multi-Lingual Photonovellas in Educate About Mental Illness and Addiction [back to top]
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) and COSTI Immigrant Services have translated and culturally interpreted five CAMH photonovellas to help Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking people better understand and accept people with mental illness and addictions concerns, to offer prevention information, and to inform people about where to find help. The photonovellas address depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, drugs, alcohol and gambling. A photonovella is a story that combines photographs with dialogue boxes like those in comic books. The photonovellas are also available in English. Three have been translated into French and two into Tamil. The photonovellas are available at www.camh.net.

Highlights From Parental Mental Illness Forum Held in Chilliwack [back to top]
Parental mental illness was the subject of a forum held in Chilliwack last May, attended by about 110 people from various parts of the community. The audience heard several presentations, including greetings from Mayor Clint Hames, an opening drum song by Keith Point welcoming the group to traditional Stolo Territory, professionals speaking on mental illness and parenting, and the personal stories of people parenting with mental illness and growing up with a parent with mental illness. Visit www.parentalmentalillness.org for highlights and pictures from the forum.

Mental Health and Addiction in the Workplace Presentations Online [back to top]
Presentations and posters from the 2nd Canadian Congress on Research on Mental Health & Addiction in the Workplace, held in Vancouver on May 17 & 18, 2007 are now available on the conference website at www.carmha.ca. topics include building a psychologically healthy workplace, supported employment, high-risk occupations, stigma and addiction. The conference was presented by BC Mental Health & Addiction Services (BCMHAS) 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).
  >> interested in improving mental health in your workplace? Learn about Mental Health Works workplace training workshops at www.cmha.bc.ca.

Fact Sheet on Ethnoracial Issues and Home and Community Care [back to top]
The Canadian Research Network for Care in the Community (CRNCC) has released a four-page fact sheet describing how to provide ethnoracial care in the community. Using culturally competent communication and effective outreach to address barriers, leveraging ethnoracial community resources, using care managers and ensuring multiple points of access are the keys to appropriate care, according to the authors. The fact sheet provides practical tips for front-line staff on culturally competent communication. For managers, the document discusses how to identify and address barriers to access through effective outreach. Available in in PDF format at www.crncc.ca.

Developing Better Non-English Health Materials [back to top]
The report Developing Better Non-English Materials: Understanding the Limits of Translation, shares lessons learned regarding barriers faced by health care organizations in producing useful translated text and in evaluating those products for quality. The report was produced by Hablamos Juntos (Spanish for We Speak Together), an American project administered by UCSF Fresno, Center for Medical Education & Research, to develop affordable models for language access. The report is available in PDF format at www.hablamosjuntos.org.

Announcements

Mental Health Commission of Canada Seeks Board Members – July 15 Deadline [back to top]
The Mental Health Commission of Canada is accepting applications for places on its Board of Directors. Eleven positions are open to Canadian citizens who are not part of the federal government. On its new website, the commission notes that it seeks people who will represent the mental health community at large and who are involved in mental health issues. These directorships are part-time and will be held for three years. The Mental Health Commission of Canada is a non-profit organization created to focus national attention on mental health issues and to work to improve the health and social outcomes of people living with mental illness. The creation of the Commission was one of the key recommendations in the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology’s final report on mental health, mental illness and addictions, Out of the Shadows at Last. For more information on the commission and how to apply for a position on its board, see www.mentalhealthcommission.ca.

Mental Health Commission Seeks Input for Anti-Stigma Campaign [back to top]
The Mental Health Commission of Canada has launched an online survey asking the public to tell the commission about anti-stigma and discrimination reduction activities that are "leading the way" in Canada. The commission is also asking respondents to identify the key elements of a strategy to reduce stigma and eliminate discrimination. A summary of the surveys will inform the thinking of the commission as it begins to implement a 10-year national anti-stigma campaign aimed at promoting a better understanding of mental illness among the general public. The survey may be completed online at www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=o7fGQu_2f0RMruAhVeDdtgZg_3d_3d. For more information about the Mental Health Commission of Canada, visit www.mentalhealthcommission.ca

Awards Honour BC's Psychologically Healthy Workplaces [back to top]
The Psychologically Healthy Workplace Collaborative have honoured seven organizations from across the province for policies, programs and practices that contribute to psychological health in their workplaces. The award is open to all BC companies that address one of five criteria for a psychologically healthy workplace: Employee Involvement, Work-Family-Life Balance, Employee Recognition, Employee Growth & Development, and Health & Safety. The 2007 winners are British Columbia Automobile Association, Vancouver International Airport Authority (YVR), WorkSafeBC, Vancouver Community College, Westminster Savings Credit Union, Executive Strategies, Cariboo Chilcotin Child Development Centre Association. See "2007 Psychologically Health Workplace Award Winners Named," at www.phwc.ca and “Honour recognizes happy workplaces,” at www.canada.com.

Vancouver Chief Constable Wins Schizophrenia Society Award [back to top]
Chief Constable Jamie Graham has received an Award for Excellence in Police Service from the BC Schizophrenia Society (BCSS). Throughout his career in the police force, Jamie Graham has been a strong advocate on behalf of people with mental illness and their families. Jamie Graham founded the original mental health committee of the BC Association of Chiefs of Police. Over his career he has also spoken out for people with schizophrenia and other brain disorders. The BCSS Award for Excellence in Police Service was named for Richard Dolman, who worked closely with Chief Graham for many years, and whose son Barnaby lost a battle with schizophrenia when he committed suicide ten years ago. For more information on the BCSS, visit www.bcss.org.

Victoria Police Unveils Gentler Handcuffs for People With Mental Ilness [back to top]
The Victoria Police Department has developed a prototype handcuff for the elderly, designed to protect their fragile skin in cases where they have to be restrained, which will also be used on people suffering from mental illness. The padded nylon restraints, part of a Bodycuff system that restricts a person's arms to his or her sides. "The whole idea is that people with mental illness or the elderly might [present] more of a medical concern than a criminal activity," said Const. Mike Massine, the department's use of force expert. See "Victoria police unveil handcuffs for the elderly," at www.canada.com.

Alberta Government Expands Mental Health Research Funding [back to top]
The Alberta government is providing $6.65 million to fund a new mental health research program focused on improving mental health services. The Mental Health Research Chairs Program will focus on four areas: child and adolescent mental health, mental health in the workplace, mental illness and addictions, and the effectiveness of mental health services and the health system. The chair of the Alberta Mental Health Board, which will lead the project, said that the research program will help fill the gaps that exist between research and practice. See "Province Expands Support for Mental Health Research," at www.gov.ab.ca.

Journalist, Scientists and Advocacy Group Honoured at International Bipolar Disorder Conference [back to top]
At the Seventh International Conference on Bipolar Disorder held last month in Pittsburgh, three distinguished individuals and one advocacy group were honored for their contributions to bipolar disorder research, education and service. John McManamy, LLB, writer and publisher of the email newsletter, McMan’s Depression and Bipolar Report, recieved the award for Public Service, The Brazilian Association for Affective Disorders (ABRATA) received the award for Education and Advocacy, and Francesc Colom, PsyD, MSc, PhD, and Eduard Vieta, MD, PhD, received the award for Research.The Mogens Schou Awards were named in recognition and appreciation of the late Danish psychiatrist, Mogens Schou MD, Dr Med Sci, whose groundbreaking research 50 years ago proved lithium's significant mood stabilizing effects for the treatment of bipolar disorders. See "Journalist, Distinguished Scientists and Advocacy Group Receive Top Honors at International Conference on Bipolar Disorder," at www.upmc.com.

FDA Asks For Changes to Suicide Warning on Antidepressant Labels [back to top]
The Food and Drug Administration has asked antidepressant makers to update so-called "black box" labelling to state that "depression and certain other psychiatric disorders are themselves associated with increases in the risk of suicide," a change that some experts say is unprecedented.The FDA also asked drug makers to extend warnings about increased risk of suicidality related to antidepressants to include patients up to age 24, and to adjust wording around how often people taking antidepressants should be monitored. See "Suicidality Warning to be Extended to Young Adults," at pn.psychiatryonline.org. The FDA’s proposed revisions are available in PDF format at www.fda.gov.

International Art Exhibition on Mental Health Seeking Submissions – Due August 10 [back to top]
To coincide with mental health awareness week in October 2007, Project Ability in Glasgow, Scotland will host an open exhibition titled "Mental Image," on the theme of mental health. Artists worldwide are invited to submit work that reflects their ideas and feelings on mental health from a perspective of wellbeing or of illness. Works will be selected and exhibited in Project Ability’s two gallery spaces, located in the centre of Glasgow, throughout October and November 2007. For more information and submission guidelines, visit www.project-ability.co.uk.

Nominations Open for Spirit of Hope Awards in Immigrant Mental Health – Due September 4 [back to top]
The Cross-Cultural Mental Health Conference is seeking nominees for the 3rd Annual Spirit of Hope Awards. The awards recognize individuals, programs, non-profit agencies or public institutions in BC that have made a significant impact on improving the mental health conditions of immigrants and refugees. The winner will have $1,000 donated to a mental health program of their choice. The deadline for nominations is September 4. For more information, please contact Janey Chang at symposium@shaw.ca.

Seeking Participants for Study on Risk Factors for Postpartum Depression and Psychosis [back to top]
A group of researchers at UBC are seeking women who have a history of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, depressive or postpartum psychosis and who are pregnant (or who are planning to become pregnant in the near future) to participate in a study of risk factors for postpartum episodes of psychiatric illness. Women who have previously experienced some kinds of psychiatric illness have higher chances to develop a postpartum episode of depression or psychosis than women who have never experienced mental health problems. By conducting this research, the group hopes to develop interventions to reduce the risk of postpartum episodes of psychiatric illness in this group of women.
  The CIHR-funded study involves several visits with the researchers over the course of the pregnancy, and during the postpartum period. During these visits, participants will complete questionnaires, have a short interview and a blood draw. At each visit, participants will be reimbursed for any travel-related expenses incurred. Women who have experienced psychosis and who are currently pregnant (or who are considering pregnancy in the near future) and would like to find out more about the study are warmly encouraged to call the lead investigator, Dr. Jehannine Austin at 604-541 7144 for further information.

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.moviemonday.ca.
July 16 - The Matador
July 23 - The Weather Underground
July 30 - Bridge to Terabithia
Aug 6 - Forgotton Silver

Chinese Teen Support Group – Begins July 10 [back to top]
Are you a Chinese teenager concerned about the mental health of a family member? So you want to learn more about the mental wellness of your relatives? Check out this Chinese teen support group, which will cover such topics as menta illness terms and concepts, health attitudes towards mental illness, early detection of mental illness, coping strategies and resources. Tuesdays a 5pm, beginning July 10 at the Chinese Mental Wellness Association of Canada (CMWAC), #250-5726 Minoru Blvd., Richmond. For more information contact teensupport@gmail.com or 604-822-7342.

Bipolar Education Night – July 10 [back to top]
The UBC Mood disorders Centre is presenting Bipolar Disorder: A review of medication and self-management strategies, an education night for people with mental health and their families. Dr. Michalak will present a talk on psychosocial self-management strategies and Dr. Allan Young will give a presentation on current medication treatments for bipolar disorder. The final component of the evening will be a question and answer panel featuring several other members of the CREST.BD, an international team of researchers and clinicians who focus on the study of psychosocial issues in bipolar disorder. 7-9pm at UBC Robson Square, 800 Robson St., Vancouver. Please pre-register for this event as seats are limited. Send your name and $5 registration fee (cheque or money order to UBC Mood Disorders Centre – waived in cases of financial hardship) to UBC Mood Disorders Centre, Attn: Heather Armstrong, Room 207 – 2255 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 2A1. For more information, please contact Heather Armstrong at 604-822-8045 or hla@interchange.ubc.ca.

Medication and Spirituality in Recovery from Concurrent Disoders – July 13 [back to top]
To celebrate their 5th anniversary in the Lower Mainland, Dual Diagnosis Anonymous (DDA) will be hosting two panel discussions on psychiatric medications for those in addiction recovery and the role of faith and spirituality in addiction recovery. DDA is an independent 12 step peer-support group for people with concurrent disorders. 2 – 4:30pm at Coast Clubhouse, 295 E. 11th Ave. (at Kingsway), Vancouver. Regular DDA Dinner Meeting from 5 – 6pm. Anyone with a mental illness and addiction is welcome to attend whether they are new to recovery or not. Visit www.ddaworldwide.org for a schedule of meetings and visit the DDA Canada page or call 604-642-0085 for more information.

Frames of Mind Mental Health Film Series – Crimes and Misdemeanors & Zelig – July 18 [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. This month’s features, two of Woody Allen's must-see films from the 1980s: Crimes and Misdemeanors, a philosophical query on the nature of morality in the absence of God; and Zelig, an hilarious mockumentary about a human chameleon and the seductive dangers of conformity. An avid fan of psychoanalysis (he was in therapy himself for 30 years), Allen married his philosophy and his psychological tendencies in his films, and in doing so, has become a symbol for all those with aspirations towards self-understanding. Includes post-screening discussion with Dr. Anton Scamvougeras, a neuropsychiatrist at the University of British Columbia. At Pacific Cinémathèque, 1131 Howe Street, Vancouver. Tickets: $9.50 regular / $8 for students and seniors. Eligible for 1.0 hour Section 1 of Royal College's Maintenance of Certification Program. For more information visit www.psychiatry.ubc.ca or www.cinematheque.bc.ca.

MDA of BC Education Evening – Coping with Depression in the Workplace - July 19 [back to top]
The Mood Disorders Association of BC monthly Education Evening series is presenting Coping With Depression In the Workplace as the topic for July. Dr. Joti Samra, RPsych and Dr. Merv Gilbert, PhD, RPsych, of the Centre For Applied Research In Mental Health & Addiction, Simon Fraser University, will be speaking on the topic and presenting their newly developed self-care guide Antidepressant Skills At Work: Dealing with Mood Problems in the Workplace. There is no charge to attend. The event begins at 7pm and takes place at the Sunrise Hall (1950 Windermere St, East Vancouver) Please contact MDA for more information: 604-873-0103 or info@mdabc.net.

CBC Documentary on Using Comedy to Fight Mental Illness and Stigma – Airs August 30 [back to top]
Cracking Up is a life-affirming documentary about people with mental illness who embark on a quirky quest to become stand up comics. The film follows 11 courageous people who suffer from mental illness as they pursue a year of stand up comedy. Part fun and part therapy, the course, entitled Stand Up For Mental Health is the brainchild of Vancouver counselor, stand-up comic, and author of The Happy Neurotic: How Fear and Angst Can Lead To Happiness and Success, David Granirer. "It’s like ‘The Full Monty’ except people want us to keep our clothes on," he says. "Doing stand-up comedy has had an amazing effect on the people in the course. For the first time in their lives, they have embraced the word crazy, and learned to laugh at their mental illness – and their audiences are laughing right along with them. They have discovered a talent they never dreamt they had." Airs nationally on August 30 at 9pm On CBC’s Doc Zone. For more information visit www.standupformentalhealth.com.

How Families Cope: Stories from People Who've Managed Well – September 11 [back to top]
When a family member develops a serious mental illness, the rest of the family is suddenly confronted by numerous serious and complicated issues. Research shows that when families receive high quality education and support, they are able to much better manage these new, extraordinary challenges. Come meet other families and hear from a panel of people who've learned how to accept and adapt to these changes and how to offer their ill family member the best possible support. Presented by the BC Scizophrenia Society (BCSS) Vancouver/Richmond Branch. 7 – 9pm at Coast Mental Health, 250 Kingsway/296 E. 11 Ave., Vancouver. Parking and entrance are at the rear of the building. To learn more about BCSS services available for families, contact Jessica Smits at jessicasmits@bcss.org or 604-247-1884.

Sharing Our Success Stories - Recovery – July 31 [back to top]
Sharing Our Success Stories is a joint Vancouver Coastal Health/Coast Foundation program to inform and inspire mental health consumers, their families, friends, partners and health care professionals. Hear the experiences of people with mental illness who have experienced both successes and challenges during various stages of recovery in mental health. Participants will be invited to ask questions at the end of the presentation. 2 – 3:30pm at the Coast Clubhouse Boardroom, 295 e. 11 Ave. (at Kingsway), Vancouver. For more information, contact Tom Heah at 604-253-5355, Ann Webborn at 604-709-6758, or Colleen McCain at 604-253-5353.

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. Learn more at www.mentalhealthworks.ca or contact Margaret Tebbutt at 1-800-555-8222 or mentalhealthworks@cmha.bc.ca for more information.

• "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. Full-day workshop $210 per participant, plus expenses for 12 - 16 participants; or series of three 3-hour workshops $350 per participant, plus expenses for a minimum of 12 participants.
• 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. Cost: $800, plus expenses.
• Workplace Influence (3 hours) - Employees consider ways to positively influence both their own mental health and that of their co-workers. Cost: $1500, plus expenses.
• 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. Cost: $1500, plus expenses.
• 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. 3-hour workshop $1500, plus expenses.
• 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. Cost: $1500, plus expenses.
• 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 participants in considering approaches to the more difficult situations. Cost: $1500, plus expenses.
• 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. Cost: $1500, plus expenses.
• Managing the Return-to-Work (3 hours; minimum of 12 participants) - 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. Cost: $200 per participant.

Headlines' Theatre for Living Training Workshop – August 8 - 13 [back to top]
Theatre for Living, also known as forum theatre, uses theatrical techniques as a way of investigating alternative approaches to controversial issues. Unlike regular theatre, Theatre for Living stimulates audience participation and discussion and 'rewriting' of the scenario to create solutions for social problems. In this 6-day workshop, trainees will learn how to educate and engage audiences through the Theatre for Living technique. Workshop fee: $400. 9am – 5:30pm daily, from August 8 to 13 at the Hastings Dance Centre, 828 E. Hastings St., Vancouver. For more information or registration, visit www.headlinestheatre.com or contact 604-871-0508 or info@headlinestheatre.com.

Conferences

Voices From the Present: Women’s Addiction and Trauma Issues Panel Discussion in Hamilton, ON – July 13
Evolving from the popular CAST Canada Addiction panel event, this unique panel includes women who identify with addiction, trauma, and combined addiction and trauma. Intended to help concerned helping professionals whose clients often have experienced trauma and/or addictions learn the roles of other women and the helping professional, participants will learn how the listener is an active part of the process, an essential part of the process. Conference fee: $135.50. 9am – 3:30 at Mohawk college, Rm#I-131, Fennel Road Campus, Hamilton, ON. For details visit www.cast-canada.ca or contact Tom Regehr at mail@cast-canada.ca or (905) 877-6547.

Showcasing New Initiatives in Psychosocial Rehabilitation in BC – September 21 [back to top]
Psychosocial Rehabilitation of BC (PSRBC) is offering a conference showcasing psychosocial initiatives. Featured speakers include Elly Litvak with her fast-paced, one-woman play, Now Who’s Crazy Now? and Regina Casey, on her Masters’ thesis on promoting recovery within Vancouver Community Mental Health Services (VCMHS). Breakout topics include wellness recovery action plans (WRAP), collaborative supported education programs for students with a mental illness, and Hospital Bridges, a peer-led psychosocial education program in the psych ward. 8am – 4pm at the HEY Building, Riverview hospital, Coquitlam. Conference fee: $50; Students-$25; People with mental illness and family members-$10; Free for PSR members. Please contact Gill.Walker@vch.ca 604-983-6020 for more info. Register by emailing sstenning@bchousing.org.

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