VOLUME 51 : March 2007 | online at www.cmha.bc.ca/enews/enewsmar07.htm

CMHA News
Lorne Fraser Educational Fund Applications Now Available
BC Partners' Campus Project Coordinator Position
CMHA BC Helps Assess the Needs of the Homeless
Bottom Line Conference 2007 on Workplace Mental Illness a Huge Success!
New Issue of Visions on Trauma and Victimization
CMHA Vernon Branch Receives $1.6 Million for Housing
Housing Wins for CMHA Simon Fraser Branch
CMHA Simon Fraser Branch to Help More People Breathe Easy
Kamloops 'Boogies' to Raise Funds for CMHA Kamloops Branch's Youth Clubhouse
CMHA White Rock/South Surrey Branch President Talks About Psychotic Depression
Vancouver/Burnaby Branch Special Events
North Shore Health Lecture Series

Featured Program:
BC Alliance: Rallying a Call to Action on Mental Health

Canadian Research
One in Six Report Depression Diagnosis; Career Fears Keep It Under Wraps
Mental Health is Generally More Positive Among Older Adults
Antipsychotic Drug Linked to Higher Risk of Death Among Seniors
Antidepressants Help Men Decrease Alcohol Consumption, But Not Women
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Likely to Save Costs in Canadian Public Health Funding
Calgary Hospitals Ask Patients to Imagine Healing - With Positive Results
Report Demonstrates Success of National Anti-Poverty Strategies
Smokers Take Notice of Graphic Cigarette Warnings

CMHA Mailbox:
Independant Living

Research From Around the World
Diabetes, Depression Combo Boosts Heart Risk
Depression Linked to Lower Birth Weight in Girls
Anxiety Disorders Often Not Diagnosed or Treated by Family Physicians in USA
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Lessens Side Effects of Anxiety Medication
First-Time Mothers at Higher Risk of Postpartum Depression
Survey Puts New Focus on Binge Eating as a Diagnosis
Symptoms of Mental Illness Worsen for Some During Substance Abuse Treatment
Study Reveals Consistency in Mental Health Reform Needs in Seven Countries
Nurses' Attitudes Towards Patients Who Self-Harm Improves With Education

New Programs and Resources
Network Magazine Focuses on Mental Health Across the Lifespan
New Fact Sheets on Child and Youth Mental Health Services
Comic Book Sends Serious Message About Dangers of the Sex Trade
BC Information Line on Equipment and Assistive Devices
GPS Bracelets for Tracking Lost Alzheimer's Patients Soon Available in Canada
Hallmark Releases Line of Greeting Cards for Friends With Depression, Eating Disorders
Braindamadj'd Documentary Premieres on Knowledge Network
Presentations on Alcohol and Co-Occuring Conditions Available
With Child: Substance Use During Pregnancy, a Woman-Centered Approach
Silent Screams - A Young Woman's Struggle With Bulimia Told Through Poetry
Getting Started in Counselling
Overcoming Cultural Stigma of Depression a Tough Task
An Enormous Gift: Lessons from Depression
More Soldiers Suffering From PTSD

Announcements
Alberta to Give Doctors More Power Under Mental Health Act
Military Denies Responsibility for Backlog of Psychiatric Help for Children in Military Communities
City of Vancouver Public Information Sessions on Supportive Housing Strategy
Conversation on Health Regional Public Forums in BC
Warning Issued Over Commonly Prescribed Antidepressant
ADHD Drugs To Carry New Warning Labels in US
Health Canada Issues Fresh Warning on EMPowerplus Supplements
Margaret Trudeau Wins Award for Her Work in Mental Health Awareness
Police and Mental Health Student Research Award - Call for Submissions
Share Your Funny Stories About Living With Mental Illness
BrainStorm Poetry Contest for People With Mental Illness Seeks Entries
Focus Group on Family Members of People With Mental Illness
Health Council of Canada Seeks Input on Chronic Health Care Management
Clinical Services Manager Position - Forensic Psychiatric Services
Seeking Participants for Study on Risk Factors for Postpartum Depression and Psychosis
Psychosis Treatment Adherence Study Seeking Participants

Public Education Events
Movie Mondays in Victoria
Frames of Mind Mental Health Film Series
Subtyping Gamblers Based on Underlying Motivations for Gambling Presentation in Victoria
Mirror Mirror - Theatrical Performance About Life and Depression - Free for School Groups
Stand Up For Mental Health 2007 Class Comedy Fundraiser
MDA of BC Education Evening - Memory, Attention & Decision Making
Diabetes and Depression at the Live Smart Diabetes Expo

Courses and Workshops
Mental Health Works Workplace Mental Health Workshops
Mental Illnesses and Developmental Disabilities Education Series
Helping the Helper Non-Profit Management Workshops
Free Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Workshop for Men
Free Customer Service Representative Skills Development
Free Advocacy Tips for Parents Involved with the Child Protection System
Collaborating With Families of Persons With Mental Illness in Prince George

Conferences
Canadian Conference on Men's Health in Victoria
Mental Health and the Justice System Across the Lifespan
Psychosocial Issues in Bipolar Disorder Conference
R & R of Mental Health: Rehabilitation & Recovery Conference
Rethinking Risk – McCreary Youth Foundation Annual Conference on Youth
Family Matters Conference in Niagara Falls, ON
First National Child & Youth Mental Health Day Conference

CMHA News

Lorne Fraser Educational Fund Applications Now Available - Due April 25 [back to top]
Do you have a mental illness and want to return to university, college or a trades program? The Lorne Fraser Educational Fund, providing bursaries to people with mental illness who want to pursue post-secondary education, is now accepting applications for its 2007 program season. Since 1982, The Lorne Fraser Fund has helped nearly 100 British Columbians pursue their educational dreams. This year's deadline is April 25th. Check out our Lorne Fraser page at www.cmha.bc.ca for more details and applications.

BC Partners' Campus Project Coordinator Position - Applications Due March 30 [back to top]
CMHA BC Division is seeking a staff lead for the BC Partners' Campus Project. The project is designed to support mental health and healthier relationships with substance use at post-secondary institutions in BC. Qualified candidates are invited to apply by March 30. Read the job posting at www.cmha.bc.ca for details.

CMHA BC Helps Assess the Needs of the Homeless [back to top]
CMHA BC Division recently completed a small piece of research for the Ministry of Health and the Centre for Applied Research on Mental Health and Addiction collecting information on the numbers and needs of homeless individuals with severe mental illness in small BC communities. Working with the Friendship Centre Society in Smithers, we completed key informant interviews with 92 'mainstream' and Aboriginal organizations in 27 communities throughout the province. Not surprisingly, 25 out of the 27 communities highlighted that homelessness is an issue in their community, that rates of mental illness and/or addiction are extremely high (80%+) amongst the homeless population, and that the visible homeless are really just the tip of an iceberg of a much larger pool of people couch surfing or living in sub-standard accommodations. Consistently, we heard that rents are increasing, vacancy rates decreasing, and multi-barriered individuals quickly 'burn bridges' in small communities and are left without housing options. For more information on the CMHA BC's provincial homeless outreach project, read the press release or contact Teya Greenberg at 604.688.3234 ext. 246.

Bottom Line Conference 2007 on Workplace Mental Illness a Huge Success! [back to top]
Thank you to the record numbers who attended the 2007 Bottom Line Conference, Mental Illness in the Workplace: The Elephant in the Room on March 7th. If you weren't able to attend this year but want to sign up for future conference updates, please sign up for periodic updates at www.bottomlineconference.ca. And thank you to our many sponsors, endorsers, patrons, staff and volunteers who made the event possible. Don't forget about our Mental Health Works training workshops for senior managers, frontline managers and union representatives—available year-round by CMHA in communities across BC. Mental Health Works, an initiative of the Canadian Mental Health Association, provides organizations with the tools and resources they need to effectively address issues involving mental illness in the workplace.

New Issue of Visions on Trauma and Victimization [back to top]
The relationship between traumatizing events—including being a victim of crime—and mental health/illness is complex. The latest issue of Visions: BC's Mental Health and Addictions Journal on Trauma and Victimization look at some of these complexities as well as the effects of trauma, treatment and support options, a sub-focus on post-traumatic stress disorder, and how to respond sensitively to certain populations. Visions: BC's Mental Health and Addictions Journal is published by BC Partners for Mental Health and Addictions Information, of which CMHA BC is member. Visions is written by and for people who have used mental health or addictions services, mental health service providers, family and friends, and mental health and addictions leaders and decision-makers, and provided free of charge to these same groups. To view this issue of Visions online, or to subscribe visit www.heretohelp.bc.ca.

CMHA Vernon Branch Receives $1.6 Million for Housing [back to top]
CMHA Vernon Branch is receiving $1.6 million to create more units for the homeless. The branch will use the funding from the Provincial Homelessness Initiative to purchase two properties and renovate the buildings on them, to provide a total of 23 units of transitional housing for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The support services will be designed for people with mental illness, such as life skills training and home support.
See "Vernon Organization Receives Provincial Funding to Help the Homeless," at www.tomchristensenmla.bc.ca and "258 New Housing Units to Help Prevent Homelessness," at www.news.gov.bc.ca.

Housing Wins for CMHA Simon Fraser Branch [back to top]
On January 19, CMHA Simon Fraser Branch completed the transaction to buy a 5-bedroom transition house in Maple Ridge. For the past two years they had been renting the house to use as transition house for 5 clients of Maple Ridge Mental Health and Addictions. When the owner indicated his intention to sell it for $333,000, it seemed like an excellent opportunity to try and raise the money. BC Housing contributed $150,000, Maple Ridge Mental Health and Addictions contributed $10,000, Debbie Shepperd of Re-Max re-donated most of her sales commission and the John Piamonte Law Corporation in New Westminster donated their services almost for free. For the balance, the branch managed to get a TD mortgage at 6% interest. CMHA Simon Fraser Branch is most grateful to all of the above-mentioned people whose contributions allowed them to buy the house and continue providing psychosocial rehabilitation services for the five residents.
   In addition to this house, CMHA Simon Fraser Branch added an additional 2-bedroom unit on St. George Street in New Westminster last October, and is currently working on securing a 7-bed duplex facility in Maple Ridge. The duplex is owned by Council, which has offered it to the branch rent-free for five years. Maple Ridge Mental Health and Addictions have come up with the repair money and most of the operating costs. The local Rotarians are working on acquiring appliances for the facility. Repairs to the duplex are schedule for the end of March.
See "Housing projects get $1 million grant," at www.mrtimes.com.

CMHA Simon Fraser Branch to Help More People Breathe Easy [back to top]
CMHA Simon Fraser Branch has recently accepted a contract from Fraser Health to help adopt and adapt the CMHA Simon Fraser Breathing Easy Smoking Cessation Program for general use throughout the Fraser Health Region. For more information on the Breathe Easy program, view the brochure in PDF format at www.cmha-sf.bc.ca.
   >> watch for the upcoming issue of Visions Journal on Tobacco, coming soon to www.heretohelp.bc.ca.

Kamloops 'Boogies' to Raise Funds for CMHA Kamloops Branch's Youth Clubhouse [back to top]
The 10th annual Boogie fun run hopes to raise $40,000 for CMHA Kamloops Branch's youth clubhouse at its event on April 21. Last year, donations from the community walk/run kept the club in operation. This year, coworkers are encouraged to join as corporate teams to celebrate fitness and raise money for charity. The cost is $30 per person (with a minimum team of 10) and each participant gets a Boogie T-shirt with the company's team name on the back. Register through Kelley Pehl at corpboogie@shaw.ca by March 23.

CMHA White Rock/South Surrey Branch President Talks About Psychotic Depression [back to top]
Some types of depression are more profound and more resistant to treatment than others. Psychotic depression, for instance, combines depressive symptoms with hallucinations or delusions. About one quarter of all people who are admitted to the hospital with depression suffer from psychotic depression. While the symptoms can be similar to those of other mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, people with psychotic depression are generally aware that their thoughts are not true. This article from the Vancouver Sun's recent series on depression, features the experiences of CMHA White Rock/South Surrey Branch's President Debbie Sesula. See "Psychotic Depression," at www.canada.com.

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.
March 23 – Nutritious and Delicious
March 26 – Blue Heron Nature Reserve
March 30 – UBC Symphonic Wind Ensemble

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.
March 21 – Feldenkrais – Boost Your Well-Being Through Mindful Movement
March 28 – Re-Organize and Re-Design youth Spaces

Featured CMHA Program: BC Alliance: Rallying a Call to Action on Mental Health By Ron LaJeunesse, Head of the BC Alliance   Sarah Pope is 10 years old; she has autism. Sarah cannot relate effectively to others, she has trouble talking and she withdraws to a fetal position when she hears loud noise or experiences tension. She was not understood by other children and even adults shunned away. Sarah's parents are well educated, noticed the problem early, learned as much as they could about autism and did their best to find help. Unfortunately they had to move to Calgary to get it. Sarah's story is real - and there are thousands more like it: An estimated 130,000 British Columbians-more than double the number accommodated at a Lions game in BC Place-will suffer a mental disorder so severe and persistent so as to make "normal" functioning impossible. An estimated 860,000-more people than live in Vancouver-will suffer alcoholism or drug addiction at some time in their life. Over 500 British Columbians will die by suicide, a number equal to the full load capacity of a Boeing 747 Jumbo jet. And this disaster recurs every year. By very conservative measures, 4000 people-equivalent to the total population of Grand Forks-is homeless, in only 30 of our urban communities. As many as 15% of all police contacts are with people who suffer a mental or substance use disorder. Prisons have become the asylums of the 21st century, with almost 90% of their population suffering a mental or substance use disorder at some time in their life. Sadly, two thirds of all these people do not receive treatment. Over the past five years, the Government of British Columbia has made several attempts to improve services to children and adults, but there has never been a comprehensive plan modeled on what is called "evidence-based practice" – services that are known to work. Some of these services exist in some communities in British Columbia, but programs are patchy and inconsistent between health authorities and indeed even within some health authorities. A provincial plan, a template to guide regional service delivery, is desperately needed. And for the first time, the major professional, consumer and advocacy organizations in BC are banding together to find a solution. Named the British Columbia Alliance on Mental Health and Addictions, or just the BC Alliance, the 14 member group (and growing) has developed a campaign to try to get the "ear of government" in order to work in partnership to design an evidence-based system. The coalition has also researched international best practices and developed a tool to assess how well we are doing in British Columbia. Current membership includes Association of Substance Abuse Programs of British Columbia, British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors, British Columbia Psychiatric Association, British Columbia Psychological Association, British Columbia Schizophrenia Society, Canadian Mental Health Association's British Columbia Division, Community Legal Assistance Society, Consumer/Survivor Society, CMHA Consumer Development Project - Okanagan, John Howard Society, Pacific Community Resources Society, Royal Canadian Mounted Police - "E" Division, and Vancouver Police Department, as well as associate member, College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of British Columbia. Dennis Anderson, the founding Chair of a similar alliance in Alberta, claims that province has made significant improvements in its mental health system since the formation of the Alberta Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health in 1999. "Governments for the first time received a consistent message from professionals, advocates, family members and consumers," says Anderson, "and what they wanted was specific and urgent." According to the BC Alliance, the effort is not about spending more money, but rather about spending money more effectively. "When mental health and addiction services are unavailable or incomplete," says Dr. Jean Moore, Chair of the BC Alliance, "people end up in cycles of hospital readmission or in the criminal justice system – the most expensive services." "Our problem is that there is a disconnect between knowledge and service," says Dr. Moore. "In other words, we are not applying what we know to what we do." Dr. Moore urges citizens who want to help to call or write Premier Campbell and Ministers George Abbott and Tom Christensen. "Tell them that it's time for action." The addresses of Premier Campbell and Ministers Abbot and Christensen are available on the BC Alliance website. To learn more about the BC Alliance and its work, please visit the Alliance website coming soon at www.bcalliance.org. CMHA BC Division is a leading member of the BC Alliance, which is made up of agencies and organizations in BC who are commited to improving provincial, regional and local mental health and addictions services.

Canadian Research

One in Six Report Depression Diagnosis; Career Fears Keep It Under Wraps [back to top]
About four out of five employees diagnosed with depression in Canada and the United States said they believe their careers would be hurt if their employers knew, a new poll suggests. The stigma leads employees to keep the diagnosis a secret, according to the survey by Ipsos Reid released at an international seminar on mental health organized by the Canadian embassy in Washington. In Canada, 11 per cent of respondents said they have been diagnosed by a physician as depressed, compared with 15 per cent of workers in the U.S. About 22 per cent in Canada and 21 per cent in the U.S. said they think they have depression that has not been properly diagnosed. See "Career fears keep depression under wraps," at www.cbc.ca, "Depression a drag on business," at chealth.canoe.ca and "Careers take a hit from depression, poll finds," at www.canada.com. See also "One in six reports diagnosis of depression: survey," at www.ctv.ca.

Mental Health is Generally More Positive Among Older Adults [back to top]
Even though older persons report more serious health problems, they are more likely to report higher levels of well-being and less likely to experience psychological distress, according to a recent report from Statistics Canada. The report, "A Portrait of Seniors in Canada," provides an up-to-date picture of the general well-being of seniors compared to previous cohorts and other younger age groups. The authors report some important differences among special populations. For example, although reports of psychological distress were low for seniors as a whole, older people who recently immigrated reported even lower levels of psychological distress. See "A Portrait of Seniors in Canada" at www.statcan.ca.

Antipsychotic Drug Linked to Higher Risk of Death Among Seniors [back to top]
Doctors should consider all antipsychotic medications to be equally risky for seniors, say researchers, who suggested additional warnings for the drugs are warranted. In 2005, both Health Canada and the US Food and Drug Administration warned that newer antipsychotic drugs increased the risk of death among elderly patients with dementia, leaving the impression that older antipsychotics are safer. However, in a study of 37,000 seniors who had taken antipsychotic drugs, patients prescribed the conventional antipsychotics showed a 32 per cent greater risk of death within 180 days compared with those given an atypical antipsychotic, the team reports in the February issue of the Canadian Medical Association Journal. Seniors who are concerned that the risks outweigh the benefits of their taking antipsychotics should talk to their doctor. See "Antipsychotic drugs linked to higher risk of death among seniors," at www.cbc.ca. See also "The dangers of antipsychotics," at chealth.canoe.ca.

Antidepressants Help Men Decrease Alcohol Consumption, But Not Women [back to top]
A study by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) examining whether using antidepressants affected the link between depression and level of alcohol consumption, concluded that women suffering from depression consumed more alcohol than women who did not experience depression, regardless of antidepressant use. This finding, published in the February issue of Canadian Medical Association Journal, differs significantly from rates found in male counterparts. While men suffering from depression generally consume more alcohol than non-depressed men, those who use antidepressants consume alcohol at about the same level as non-depressed men. See "CIHR-funded research: Antidepressants help men decrease alcohol consumption, but not women," at cihr-irsc.gc.ca.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Likely to Save Costs in Canadian Public Health Funding [back to top]
A literature review published in the fall in the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry looked at the economic value of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and the implications for public health care funding policy in Canada. From their review, which included all studies that reported economic analyses of CBT and were published internationally from 1985 to 2005, the authors found that CBT represents value for dollars spent, is cheaper than medication, and increases societal benefit compared to the current standard care for depression and anxiety. While only one study reported Canadian data, and costs of training and restructuring were not considered, the authors say that greater accessibility to CBT could produce significant costs savings in Canadian health spending along with better mental health outcomes. To increase access, the authors suggest that more CBT training programs for practitioners with national standards for accreditation. See "Cost-Effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy for Mental Disorders: Implications for Public Health Care Funding Policy in Canada." The article is available in PDF format at publications.cpa-apc.org.

Calgary Hospitals Ask Patients to Imagine Healing - With Positive Results [back to top]
The Calgary Health Region has a new prescription for patients dealing with the anxiety of pain and illness: CDs with guided visualization and relaxation techniques. On one CD, a soothing voice backed by calming music asks patients to "imagine now what is necessary for your body to be healed." Health officials surveyed 60 patients in the pilot project, 50 of whom were women. The overwhelming majority, 89 per cent, said they saw a benefit from the CDs after their operation, and 96 per cent agreed the CDs should be offered to other patients. See "Calgary hospitals ask patients to imagine healing," at www.cbc.ca.

Report Demonstrates Success of National Anti-Poverty Strategies [back to top]
The National Council of Welfare has released a report describing what is needed to solve poverty in Canada, based on successful national strategies in other countries. The report describes the foundations of a national strategy for Canada and will be followed up with detailed recommendations on specific issues and actions. "Solving Poverty: Four Cornerstones of a Workable National Strategy for Canada" describes the success of other countries, as well as Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador, in reducing poverty. The four cornerstones they discovered through examining these successes are: a strategy with targets and timelines, a coordinated plan of action, accountability built into the plan, and indicators to measure success. "Solving Poverty: Four Cornerstones of a Workable National Strategy for Canada" is available at www.ncwcnbes.net.

Smokers Take Notice of Graphic Cigarette Warnings [back to top]
When it comes to changing the behaviour of smokers with warning labels on cigarette packages, it seems the bigger and more graphically in-your-face the better. That's the conclusion of a four-year study that looked at differences in package warnings and their effects on smokers in Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and the United States. And it appears that Canada - with its large-sized warnings that include such photos as a mouthful of teeth with gums blackened by oral cancer and diseased lungs - leads the pack among the four countries in getting the anti-tobacco message across to smokers. See "Smokers taking notice of graphic cigarette warnings: study," chealth.canoe.ca.

Research from around the World

Diabetes, Depression Combo Boosts Heart Risk [back to top]
A heart patient with depression and Type 2 diabetes has a 20-30% higher risk of dying compared to a person with a heart problem who just has depression, new research suggests. Psychologists at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, NC, followed more than 900 patients with heart disease for more than four years, including 325 with Type 2 diabetes. After controlling for heart disease severity and age, patients with both conditions were still at higher risk of dying. See "Diabetes, depression combo boosts heart risk," at www.cbc.ca.

Depression Linked to Lower Birth Weight in Girls [back to top]
Underweight baby girls may be at greater risk of depression as teens than babies born at a normal weight. In the March issue of the Archives of General Psychiatry, researchers in the U.S. looked at data on more than 1,400 children aged nine to 16. They found that 38% of girls whose birth weight was less than 5.5 pounds experienced depression between the ages of 13 and 16, compared with 8.4% of girls with a normal birth weight. Boys did not show the same effect. See "Depression linked to lower birth weight," at www.cbc.ca.

Anxiety Disorders Often Not Diagnosed or Treated by Family Physicians in USA [back to top]
A study published in the February issue of American Journal of Psychiatry found that almost half of patients who screened positively for anxiety disorders while in their family physician's waiting room did not receive treatment for their anxiety. Of the 539 people who had screened positive for anxiety in the waiting room, almost half (47.3%) of participants with anxiety did not receive treatment, either medication or psychotherapy, from their family physician or a psychiatrist. The most common reasons cited by participants for not receiving medication were that the primary care provider did not recommend pharmacotherapy, that the participant did not believe in taking medication for emotional problems, or didn't think he or she had a problem. See "Psychiatric Treatment in Primary Care Patients with Anxiety Disorders: A Comparison of Care Received from Primary Care Providers and Psychiatrists." The abstract with paid access to the full text is available at ajp.psychiatryonline.org.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Lessens Side Effects of Anxiety Medication [back to top]
A study published in the February issue of American Journal of Psychiatry found that when patients with panic disorder had cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) added to their treatment, they experienced a decrease in side effects from medication. The authors found that of 172 patients with anxiety, patients who took medication and had CBT reported significantly decreased side effects, including less fatigue, dry mouth and sweating compared to the patients who took medication alone. The placebo group reported higher levels of nervousness, irritability and headache, which the authors say were most likely due to the underlying panic disorder. The authors note that they did not find evidence that CBT improved the efficacy of the medication, but they suggest that reduction of side effects indicates that combination treatment is superior. See "A Comparison of Medication Side Effect Reports by Panic Disorder Patients with and without Concomitant Cognitive Behavior Therapy." An abstract with paid access to the full text is available at ajp.psychiatryonline.org.

First-Time Mothers at Higher Risk of Postpartum Depression [back to top]
A study published recently in the December issue of Journal of the American Medical Association found that the risk of first-time mothers developing postpartum mental disorders increases for several months after childbirth, but the risk to fathers does not increase. Using data on over 2.3 million people from Danish health and civil service registers, the authors compared first-time parents in the early postpartum months to parents with more than one child, and to parents at one year postpartum. The authors say this study produces a complete picture of mental disorders during the first year postpartum because the study used a broad definition of postpartum mental disorders that included all diagnoses, combined with a 12-month follow-up. See "New Parents and Mental Disorders: A Population-Based Register Study." An abstract with paid access to the full text is available at jama.ama-assn.org.

Survey Puts New Focus on Binge Eating as a Diagnosis [back to top]
Binge eating is not yet officially classified as a psychiatric disorder. But it may be more common than the two eating disorders now recognized, anorexia nervosa and bulimia. The first nationally representative study of eating disorders in the United States, a nationwide survey of more than 2,900 men and women, was published by Harvard researchers in the Feb. 1 issue of the journal Biological Psychiatry. It found prevalence in the general population of 0.6 percent for anorexia, 1 percent for bulimia and 2.8 percent for binge-eating disorder. See "Survey Puts New Focus on Binge Eating as a Diagnosis," at www.nytimes.com. The abstract with paid access to the full text is available at www.sciencedirect.com.

Symptoms of Mental Illness Worsen for Some During Substance Abuse Treatment [back to top]
Thirteen percent of clients in residential substance abuse treatment programs saw their psychiatric symptoms worsen during treatment, suggesting that substance abuse treatment providers should take care to monitor the mental health of their clients, according to a study in the December issue of Psychiatric Services. Of 3,322 clients who completed assessments, 13% saw their psychiatric symptoms worsen while 85% reported fewer symptoms, and 2% reported no change. Women were not part of the study, the authors note, so the findings' generalizability is limited, as it is by the exclusive focus on residential treatment. See "Exacerbation of Psychiatric Symptoms during Substance Use Disorder Treatment." An abstract with paid access to the full text is available at ps.psychiatryonline.org.

Study Reveals Consistency in Mental Health Reform Needs in Seven Countries [back to top]
A recent comparison of national health system reform movements in Australia, Canada, England, Italy, New Zealand, Scotland and the United States has found a striking national-level agreement on changes needed in their respective mental health systems. Canada is the only one of the seven without a national mental health plan. The authors identified common deficiencies in all seven countries and determined six international priorities: making mental health a public priority; improving access and enhancing the range of services; ensuring an adequate workforce; making consumer involvement, response to individual needs, recovery and wellness the focus of mental health care; integrating care and linking with general health care and other sectors; and promoting evidence-based practices. The study was based on a review of national policy papers and expert reports and consultation with key informants including policy-makers in each country. The paper is a project of the California Institute of Mental Health. "International Pathways to Mental Health System Transformation," California Institute of Mental Health, is available at www.cimh.org.

Nurses' Attitudes Towards Patients Who Self-Harm Improves With Education [back to top]
A UK study published recently in the February issue of Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing found that mental health nurses who took a course about self-harm and suicide showed, 18 months after completing the course, a 20 percent reduction in antipathy toward patients who self-harm. A control group who took a course unrelated to patient care showed antipathy drop by nine percent. The participants chose which course they attended, and almost all of those in the self-harm education group indicated that they had worked with a patient who self-harmed in the past year, compared with only half of the group who took the unrelated course. The authors acknowledge that since the two groups were non-randomized, and participants selected which course they took, these findings can be seen as preliminary evidence for the effectiveness of engaging mental health nurses who work patients who self-harm to learn and reflect on this topic. See "Testing the Effectiveness of an Educational Intervention Aimed at Changing Attitudes to Self-Harm." An abstract with paid access to the full text is available at www.blackwell-synergy.com.

New Programs and Resources

Network Magazine Focuses on Mental Health Across the Lifespan [back to top]
The recently published Winter 2007 issue of Network magazine takes a look at mental health issues across different life stages. Topics include anti-anxiety and self-esteem programs for children, websites that encourage young people to speak to one another about mental illness through personal stories and creative expression, an early intervention program for young adults experiencing psychosis, parenting and mental illness, mental health services for seniors in long-term care homes, and Ontario's depression strategy. See "Generation Gaps: Mental Health across the Lifespan," Network (Winter 2007), at www.ontario.cmha.ca/network.

New Fact Sheets on Child and Youth Mental Health Services [back to top]
Three new fact sheets on what to expect from your family physician, your child's school, and community child and youth mental health services are now available on the HeretoHelp.bc.ca website. The fact sheets are designed to help prepare parents for working with the various people and services who can help their child with mental illness to succeed in their community. The new fact sheets were prepared by the FORCE Society for Kids' Mental Health on behalf of the BC Partners for Mental Health and Addictions Information, of which CMHA BC is a member. Download the new fact sheets at www.heretohelp.bc.ca.
   >> if the topic of child and youth mental health interests you, read the 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.

Comic Book Sends Serious Message About Dangers of the Sex Trade [back to top]
While gruesome details of the Pickton trial grab national headlines, a Vancouver group has adopted a creative way to educate young people about the sex trade. The Prostitutes Empowerment Education Resource Society (PEERS), a Downtown Eastside organization that reaches out to prostitutes, is distributing the comic book Act Out of Knowledge in community and youth drop-in centres around the Lower Mainland. The comic, aimed at young people 12 and up, debunks many stereotypes associated with the sex trade and protects young people from popular strategies employed by pimps and other recruiters. See "Comic sends serious message about pimps," at www.vancourier.com.

BC Information Line on Equipment and Assistive Devices [back to top]
If you would like information on equipment and assistive devices available in BC, contact the toll-free Personal Supports Information Line. They will be able to direct you to the government programs that provide equipment to assist you with daily living activities. Call 1-888-818-1211, TTY 1-800-661-8773, or email PersonalSupportsInformation@gov.bc.ca.
   >> for 24-hour access to information on mental health and mental health services across BC, call the Mental Health Information Line at 604-669-7600 or at 1-800-661-2121 outside the lower mainland.

GPS Bracelets for Tracking Lost Alzheimer's Patients Soon Available in Canada [back to top]
A bracelet with a Global Positioning System (GPS) has helped rescue about 1,000 people with Alzheimer's disease since it was introduced in France four months ago. The Columba bracelet, manufactured by Medical Intelligence Technologies Inc. of Quebec City, is expected to be available in Canada this year. About 25,000 Canadians with Alzheimer's currently rely on a bracelet that identifies them to police only after they're found. The Columba bracelet can lead police to the missing person. See "Bracelet's GPS keeps track of lost Alzheimer's patients," at www.canada.com.

Hallmark Releases Line of Greeting Cards for Friends With Depression, Eating Disorders [back to top]
Hallmark Cards Inc. is releasing a new line of cards that will speak to those and other situations that the company says have either been ignored by greeting card companies or received only a smattering of attention from niche players. The 176-card collection, called Journeys includes cards for situations like depression, eating disorders, cancer, or declaring sexual orientation. For example, the inscription for the card for depression reads: "When the world gets heavy, remember, I'm here to help carry it with you." See "Hallmark Releases New Line of Cards," at abcnews.go.com.

Braindamadj'd Documentary Premieres on Knowledge Network - March 19 [back to top]
Paul Nadler, a creative maverick, a world traveler, and award-winning television producer, was left for dead in the Egyptian desert, the victim of a mysterious car crash en route to a scuba diving destination. Nadler emerged from a six-week coma and regained his fun-loving, ambitious spirit to fight for his independence. Setting goals that seemed physically and psychologically impossible and achieving them, Nadler proved everyone wrong, took everyone by surprise…and lived to tell the tale. Nadler's incredible story of overcoming adversity and confounding every expectation of the medical community is chronicled in the inspiring, three-time Gemini Award-winning documentary Braindamadj'd…Take II, premiering Monday, March 19 at 9pm on Knowledge Network. More details at www.knowledgenetwork.ca.

Presentations on Alcohol and Co-Occuring Conditions Available [back to top]
The theme of this year's BC Mental Health and Addictions research Colloquium was Changing Behaviour, Changing Lives: Alcohol and Co-Occurring Conditions. PowerPoint presentations from the colloquium on March 8 are now available at www.mhanet.ca, with video archives of the colloquium webcast coming soon.
   >> if the topic of alcohol use and misuse interests you, check out the Visions Journal issue on Alcohol on the HeretoHelp.bc.ca website.

With Child: Substance Use During Pregnancy, a Woman-Centered Approach [back to top]
Although drug use occurs throughout the social spectrum, problematic use is associated with poverty and social deprivation. In spite of this link to poverty and social deprivation, women are blamed for the outcomes of their pregnancies and it is argued that drug using women should not be allowed to have custody of their own children. The contributors of this volume propose that those who provide services for pregnant drug-using women must recognize that women with social problems that affect pregnancy outcomes should be approached in the same way as care for women with medical problems that have obstetric consequences. Drugs are one factor amongst many that shape pregnancy and although drug use is a risk, it is a manageable one. This book is unique and timely. It provides practitioners and researchers with valuable information about maternal drug use, harm reduction, best practices and policy. It will provide a groundbreaking critical and feminist template for organizations in a wide range of fields such as nursing, social work, medicine, public health, health, child development, and addictions. Available to purchase for $17.95 at www.fernwoodpublishing.ca.

Silent Screams - A Young Woman's Struggle With Bulimia Told Through Poetry [back to top]
The symptoms of bulimia nervosa "like fluctuating weight, secretive eating, low self-esteem, and tooth decay" are well-known. What are not so easily understood are the emotions behind the eating disorder. Lori Henry knows those feelings all too well. The Vancouver resident battled bulimia for six years. She wrote hundreds of poems during her hard junior-high and high-school years. She selected some of her writings for her first book, Silent Screams, which she hopes will give people insight into the mind of a bulimic. The book has toured across North America and is used in school curriculums, research, eating disorder programs and workshops from here to the UK. Now in its second printing, this edition includes a new preface by the author. Silent Screams is available to purchase for $19.99 at www.trafford.com.

Getting Started in Counselling [back to top]
Do you know students or youth who are thinking of getting counselling, but don't know where to start? Check out the latest tool from www.mindyourmind.ca, dedicated to Getting Started in Counselling. It includes everything youth need to know about starting in one easy downloadable package, from the counselling relationship to preparing for your first session. Check out the tool at www.mindyourmind.ca.

Overcoming Cultural Stigma of Depression a Tough Task [back to top]
Many non-Western cultures refuse to see depression as part of mental illness. Some societies actually view it as a kind of weakness, and those who complain about it are considered malingerers. That puts an immense burden on newcomers to Canada, already having trouble accessing the health care system because of language difficulties. Faced with a clinical depression, and the profound sense of shame and failure that can follow from that, many new immigrants face an especially difficult situation. In this article from the Vancouver Sun's recent series on depression, reporter Michael Scott uncovers some of the unique challenges many new immigrants face. See "Overcoming cultural stigma a tough task," at www.canada.com.
   >> if the topic of mental illness and stigma interests you, check out the Visions Journal issue on Stigma and Discrimination on the HeretoHelp.bc.ca website.
   >> fact sheets on mental health and mental illness are now available in Farsi (Persian), French, Korean, Punjabi, Spanish and Vietnamese on the HeretoHelp.bc.ca website.

An Enormous Gift: Lessons from Depression [back to top]
In this article from the Vancouver Sun's recent series on depression, columnist Barbara Yaffe talks about gaining new strength from acquiring an extra dimension of sensitivity as a sufferer of chronic depression. "Depressed people, I've noticed, so often tend to be individuals who possess incredible kindness and thoughtfulness, having within them boundless knowledge of what it is to be hurt or disappointed," says Yaffe. "They can be touched in places others cannot be, share what others are unable to." See "An Enormous Gift," at www.canada.com.
   >> contact your local CMHA branch for your FREE copy of Responding to the Call: An Adult Picture Book on the Gift of Depression by BC artist and writer Suzan Milburn. Multiple copies are available at $4 apiece plus shipping from CMHA BC Division office at 604-688-3234 or 1-800-555-8222 while supplies last.

More Soldiers Suffering From PTSD [back to top]
Sometimes the wounds sustained on the battlefield aren't visible at all. As Canadian soldiers continue to hunt on foot for the Taliban in southern Afghanistan or face yet another suicide bomber while on a convoy, it's not just the number of dead and wounded that rises. Many of those who watch their friends and comrades being killed or hurt are themselves left with psychological wounds that may haunt them for a lifetime. See "More soldiers suffering from PTSD," at chealth.canoe.ca.
   >> if the topic of trauma and mental illness interests you, check out the current issue of Visions Journal issue on Trauma and Victimization on the HeretoHelp.bc.ca website.

Announcements

Alberta to Give Doctors More Power Under Mental Health Act [back to top]
Alberta has announced plans to introduce legislation making it easier for doctors to force mentally ill patients to get treatment, even against the patient's will. If Alberta passes the law, it will be the latest province to resist the emphasis on patients' rights over public safety. Rather than waiting for the mentally ill to present an imminent danger to themselves or others before compelling treatment, psychiatrists will be able to impose treatment on any patient exhibiting a deteriorating mental state. See "Alberta eyes mandatory care for the mentally ill," at www.canada.com. See also "Psychiatrists to get more powers in Alberta," at www.cbc.ca.
   >> to learn more about the rights of people with mental illness in BC, download the BC Mental Health Act in Plain Language from the CMHA BC website at www.cmha.bc.ca.

Military Denies Responsibility for Backlog of Psychiatric Treatments for Children in Military Communities [back to top]
Most soldiers' children do not require mental health services beyond those provided by the military, says the agency that serves the families of soldiers. The comment came amid allegations that an apparent surge in mental illness among children from military families is a result of Canada's mission in Afghanistan. Ontario Ombudsman André Marin announced Thursday he would investigate a complaint from a medical services provider that children from military families in places such as Petawawa, Ont., were waiting months for psychiatric treatment, partly because the province blames the cases on the military and says Ottawa should pay. See "Military says it can deal with mentla health issues in most soldiers' children," at www.cbc.ca.

City of Vancouver Public Information Sessions on Supportive Housing Strategy [back to top]
The City of Vancouver will be holding community meetings in March and April in various neighborhood centres to discuss their Supportive Housing Strategy and how to successfully integrate new supportive housing projects into neighborhoods. Supportive Housing is affordable housing that provides links to support staff that assist tenants to stabilize their lives, enhance independent living skills, and re-connect with the community. The City's strategy partners with Vancouver Coastal Health in focusing on housing for people with mental illness and/or addictions. The community meetings will be an opportunity for you to participate in the discussion, learn more about supportive housing, and to voice your support for housing for people with mental illness and addictions. For a schedule of meetings and more information, please go to the City of Vancouver website at www.city.vancouver.bc.ca.

Conversation on Health Regional Public Forums in BC [back to top]
The Conversation On Health is a discussion among British Columbians on how to make BC healthier, and how to improve and renew our health system while strengthening the Canada Health Act. The Conversation On Health regional forums are currently underway. Be sure to pay attention to registration deadlines if you are interested in attending on of the forums in your area. See the forum schedule at www.bcconversationonhealth.ca for registration deadlines for Campbell River, Fort St. John, Smithers, Castlegar and Vancouver and summaries of past regional public forums.

Warning Issued Over Commonly Prescribed Antidepressant [back to top]
BC doctors are being put on alert that venlafaxine, whose brand name is Effexor - the most commonly prescribed antidepressant in BC - is increasingly being observed to have toxic overdose consequences like seizures and even deaths. Doctors are now being cautioned that prescriptions for Effexor should be written for the smallest quantity to reduce overdose risk. Symptoms can include drowsiness, seizures, low or high blood pressure, heart rhythm disturbances and comas. Though risk is still very small, people on higher doses of Effexor should talk to their doctor if they are concerned. See "Warning issued over drug," at www.canada.com.
   >> get the facts about treating depression in CMHA's Guide to Depression Treatments, avaialbe on the CMHA BC website at www.cmha.bc.ca.

ADHD Drugs To Carry New Warning Labels in US [back to top]
Drugs prescribed in the US to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder will include guides to alert patients and parents of the risks of mental and heart problems, including sudden death.The US Food and Drug Administration says that it directed the manufacturers of Ritalin, Adderall, Strattera and all other drugs for attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, to develop the guides. Draft versions of the guides posted on the FDA Web site include discussion of reports of increased blood pressure and heart rate in ADHD patients, as well as cases of sudden death in some who have heart problems and heart defects. In adult patients, the reported problems also include stroke and heart attack. FDA recommends that children, adolescents, or adults who are being considered for treatment with ADHD drug products work with their physician or other health care professional to develop a treatment plan that includes a careful health history and evaluation of current status, particularly for cardiovascular and psychiatric problems (including assessment for a family history of such problems).See "ADHD drugs to carry new guides on heart, mental risks," at www.cnn.com. See also the FDA press release.

Health Canada Issues Fresh Warning on EMPowerplus Supplements [back to top]
Following nine reports of serious adverse reactions associated with the use of the controversial supplement EMPowerplus, Health Canada has advised people to stop using the supplement. The maker of the mixture of vitamins and minerals, Truehope Nutritional Support Ltd., says the "alternative mental health treatment" offers hope to people who suffer from bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder and other mental illnesses. But Health Canada has warned about using EMPowerplus in the past, and even launched an unsuccessful court case to try and stop the distribution of the supplement. Health Canada said the adverse reactions "relate to worsening of psychiatric symptoms in those patients with serious underlying mental health problems, such as bipolar disorder and depression." See "Health Canada issues fresh warning on supplement," at www.cbc.ca.

Margaret Trudeau Wins Award for Her Work in Mental Health Awareness [back to top]
Former first lady Margaret Trudeau is one of four winners of a 2007 Inspiration Award, presented at the Royal Ottawa Foundation for Mental Health's prestigious annual Gala celebration. Mrs. Trudeau is being recognized with an Inspiration Award in the community category for her courage in stepping forward last May to publicly share her personal struggle with mental illness. She has continued to show her commitment to bringing forth a message of hope and acceptance, sharing her story at CMHA BC's Bottom Line Conference last month, as well as in dozens of BC media in the leadup to the event. The Inspiration Awards are presented annually to members of the community who have overcome tremendous personal adversity to advance mental health reform, improve the delivery of services to patients and their families, or reduce the stigma of mental illness. Learn more about the awards at www.rohcg.on.ca.

Police and Mental Health Student Research Award - Call for Submissions [back to top]
The Canadian National Committee for Police/Mental Health Liaison (CNCPMHL) is now accepting submissions for its student research award. The award will be presented at the annual CNCPMHL conference. Applications for the award are due August 1, 2007, and can be obtained from Dr. Dorothy Cotton at cottondh@csc-scc.gc.ca. The award is open to any full-time student currently enrolled in an accredited post-secondary institution. Submissions must demonstrate a research component in relation to policing and mental health. Applications must include a completed cover page, a copy of the research paper (maximum 30 pages double-spaced), and two letters of support showing the value of the student's research. The submissions will be judged on the overall quality of the research paper, applicability to policing and mental health, and the letters of support. See "Canadian National Committee for Police/Mental Health Liaison – Student Research Award: Terms of Reference," available at www.pmhl.ca.
   >> learn more about CMHA BC's Mental Health and Police Project on the website at www.cmha.bc.ca.

Share Your Funny Stories About Living With Mental Illness [back to top]
Bipolar Canadian author M. McKenzie is writing a book about the funny, humorous or hilarious things that have happened to people with mental illness and is looking for people to share their stories. If you are interested in contributing, please send your stories to M. McKenzie at #302, 10554 – 96 Street, Edmonton Alberta, T5H 2H8.

BrainStorm Poetry Contest for People With Mental Illness Seeks Entries – Ends March 23 [back to top]
It's that time again, when poets pick up their pencils and enter the BrainStorm Poetry Contest for individuals living with mental illness. Join in, by entering your best poetry by March 23, 2007. Prizes will be awarded for the top three poems. The top three poems, judged by a panel of mental health consumers and family members, will be awarded prizes and be published in Open Minds Quarterly, a literary journal dedicated to publishing the writing of individuals living with mental illness. First prize – $250; Second Prize – $150; Third Prize – $75. Download the entry form and rules from www.nisa.on.ca.

Focus Group on Family Members of People With Mental Illness – March 28 + April 11 [back to top]
Mood Disorders Association of BC is seeking input from family members on how they maintain their own lives and goals while providing care and support for a loved one who has been diagnosed with a mental illness. Parents, spouses and siblings are invited to attend. Refreshments will be provided. 7 – 9pm. Registration is required. Please call 604-873-0103 to register of email mdabc@telus.net. Please include your email address so that you can receive materials ahead of time.

Health Council of Canada Seeks Input on Chronic Health Care Management – Ends April 15 [back to top]
With its March 2007 report, "Why Health Care Renewal Matters: Lessons from Diabetes," the Health Council of Canada is seeking input from Canadians on their experience with diabetes and other chronic health conditions. The report focuses on type 2 diabetes to illustrate the issues of chronic healthcare management in Canada. The authors say that three quarters of Canadians with diabetes also have other chronic health conditions such as heart disease and depression, which contribute significantly to the reduced quality of life for people with diabetes. The online consultation is from March 5 to April 15, 2007, and takes about 20-30 minutes to complete. The council is hoping to hear from people with diabetes and other chronic health conditions, family members, health care professionals and others who are interested in the issue of chronic health care management. The report is available in PDF format at www.healthcouncilcanada.ca. To be part of the online consultation, go to hcc.dialoguecircles.com.

Clinical Services Manager Position - Forensic Psychiatric Services [back to top]
As part of the provincial mental health services continuum, BC Mental Health & Addiction Services provides a diverse range of specialized, "one-of-a-kind" tertiary level mental health services to residents across all geographic areas in BC. Reporting to the Director of Patient and Client Services, this exciting opportunity is a perfect fit for a self-directed and highly motivated leader looking to become an integral member of our management team. This role will see you responsible for ensuring the quality management of care delivery to patients and families, including managing and directing staff, overseeing the service delivery budget and implementation of operational plans. As our ideal candidate, you possess a relevant degree from an accredited University in a related health profession and current practicing registration with a relevant professional association. A minimum of five years of recent related clinical experience including two years working in a managerial/ leadership capacity in a clinical setting is required. Please submit your résumé, in confidence, quoting Competition # MHS-2006-1010 to: PHSA Specialty Recruitment, Suite 800- 1441 Creekside Drive, Vancouver, BC, V6J 4S7. E-mail: careers@phsa.ca or Fax: 604-875-7253. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

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.

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 assistant 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.

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.
March 26 – His Girl Friday
April 2 – Happy Feet
April 9 – Moscow On The Hudson
April 16 – Remembering Arthur
April 23 – Citizen Sam
April 30 - Reds

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.
March 21 – Autism is a World
April 18 – Jonestown: The Life and death of People Temple

Subtyping Gamblers Based on Underlying Motivations for Gambling Presentation in Victoria – March 22 [back to top]
In this presentation, Dr. Stewart will review the results of several recent studies that have successfully subtyped gamblers based on their underlying motivations for gambling, and the treatment implications of these results. This presentation is free and open to the public. Presented by the Centre for Addictions Research of BC and The Clinical Psychology Program in association with the BC Mental Health & Addictions Research Network. 3:30 – 4:30pm at Cornett Building Room A120, Department of Psychology, University of Victoria. For more information, view the PDF poster at www.silink.ca.

Mirror Mirror - Theatrical Performance About Life and Depression - April 3 - 5 [back to top]
Vancouver Coastal Health presents a youth theatre action group production entitled Mirror Mirror. A sophisticated and witty theatrical performance about life and depression, Mirror Mirror is created and performed by BC youth. For reservations, call Chandra at 604-321-0694 and leave your name, contact information, and number of seats. At the Performance Centre at the Roundhouse Community Centre at Davie St. and Pacific Blvd.
April 3 - 5 - Evening performances at 7:30pm - by donation
April 4 + 5 - Afternoon performances at 1:15pm - FREE for school groups

Stand Up For Mental Health 2007 Class Comedy Fundraiser – April 15 [back to top]
Most people think you have to be nuts to do stand up comedy, but Stand Up For Mental Health offers it as a form of therapy! Led by Vancouver counselor and stand up comic David Granirer, Stand Up For Mental Health teaches people with mental illness to take control by turning their problems into comedy. Featuring our all new 2007 class and for the 2nd year in a row headliner Mike MacDonald (Just For Laughs, Comedy Central, Showtime, and A&E's An Evening at the Improv). Silent auction 6:30 pm show 7-10pm, Arts Club Theatre. Tickets $30.00 www.ticketmaster.ca or call (604) 687-1644. More info at www.standupformentalhealth.com.

MDA of BC Education Evening - Memory, Attention & Decision Making – April 19 [back to top]
Dr. Todd Woodward, PhD, Research Scientist, Riverview Hospital, will introduce The Megacognitive Skill Training (MCT) program that targets unhealthy thinking biases involved in depression and psychosis. He will discuss the research from testing memory, attention and decision-making. The goal of MCT is to bring awareness and prompt critical reflection in the hope of changing potentially problematic thinking styles. A question and answer period will follow. Everyone welcome to attend this free event at 7pm, at Sunrise Hall, 1950 Windermere Street. For more information contact Mood Disorders Association of BC at 604-873-0103 or email info@mdabc.net.

Diabetes and Depression at the Live Smart Diabetes Expo – May 26 [back to top]
Dr. William Polonsky, psychologist and author of "Diabetes Burnout: What to do when you can't take it anymore", will talk about stress, burnout and depression at the Canadian Diabetes Association's second annual Live Smart Diabetes Expo. The Expo takes place from 8:30am to 4pm at the Broadway Church, 2700 East Broadway, in Vancouver. Other Expo highlights include an "Ask the Experts" panel, diabetes information and product trade show, interactive cooking demonstrations from popular Cooking For Your Life! program, and live broadcast of Dr. Art Hister's radio show, "House Calls". Register at www.diabetes.ca, email info@diabetes.ca, or call 1-800-BANTING (226-8464).

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 sitations. 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.

Mental Illnesses and Developmental Disabilities Education Series [back to top]
Fraser Valley & West Coast Mental Health Support Teams are presenting a series of spring workshops on mental illnesses and developmental disabilities. All workshops will start at 9am and end at 3:30pm, and have a 1-hour lunch period. Workshop fee: $20/day; Lunch optional for an additional $12/day. For more information, please mail Anne Halas, Education Coordinator at anne.halas@fraserhealth.ca.
Port Moody - Old Mill Boathouse, 2715 Esplanade Street (by Rocky Point Park)
March 23 – Communications
March 30 - Sexuality
Burnaby - Burnaby Lake Rowing Pavillion, 6871 Roberts St.
April 12 - Tools of the Trade - Day1
April 13 - Tools of the Trade - Day2
April 20 - How to Improve Mental Health - Aside from Medications

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
April 19 – Evaluation Front to Back
May 17 - Tips and Tools for Developing Effective Work Teams
Fraser Valley - Ramada Plaza and Conference Centre, 26035 N. Parallel Road, Abbotsford
May 23 - Making Change Work
Victoria - Room 150, 1515 McTavish Road, Sidney
April 24 – Evaluation Front to Back
May 15 - Tips and Tools for Developing Effective Work Teams
Nanaimo - 11 Bastion Street, Nanaimo
May 9 - Beyond Basics: Ways to Make Your Board More Effective

Free Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Workshop for Men – March 29 [back to top]
Motivation, Power, and Achievement Society (MPA) is offering a free course for men with mental illness on how to deal with a volatile or potentially volatile situation through the use of body language and speech. Come and learn skills and tools to help you stay safe. Participants will be provided with a workbook and a certificate of completion. FREE to attend and includes lunch and refreshments. From 9am to 4:30pm at the Coast Clubhouse offices at 293 East 11th Ave., Vancouver. Please contact Sandra at 604-482-3700 to register.

Free Customer Service Representative Skills Development - Begins April 2 [back to top]
This 7-week training program is designed to help people with mental health problems to learn all the personal, professional and technical skills necessary to move into the workforce. The mandate of the program is to support persons who have experienced mental health issues/disabilities, or may be currently experiencing low self-esteem, depression or low self-confidence. FREE for eligable Canadian participants. The next session begins April 2, and operates 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday for 7 weeks. A program of the National Network for Mental Heath, funded by Social Development Canada. For more information, please call 604-517-5526 or visit the Built Network Skill Centre at 779 Carnarvon Street, New Westminster.

Free Advocacy Tips for Parents Involved with the Child Protection System – April 4 [back to top]
This workshop is geared towards parents who have a mental health diagnosis and their support people. Some of the topics that will be addressed include what a mental health diagnosis means for your child protection case, advocating for yourself with your social worker and financial assistance worker, how to prepare for a family case conference, what services are available, and how to keep yourself healthy through the child protection process. Presented by Kettle Friendship Society and Pivot Legal Society. Refreshments will be provided. 12:30 – 2:30pm at 678 East Hastings Street, Vancouver. FREE to attend. For more information and to RSVP, contact Darcie Bennett at 604-255-9700 ext. 102 or dbennett@pivotlegal.org.
   >> if the topic of parenting with a mental illness, read the issue of Visions: BC's Mental Health and Addictions Journal on Parenting, available at www.heretohelp.bc.ca.

Collaborating With Families of Persons With Mental Illness in Prince George – May 7 [back to top]
This workshop for mental health service providers is intended as an introduction to ideas around working in partnership with families of persons with mental illness and exploring what the informational and other needs of families are, how to collaborate with families and issues around confidentiality. Sponsored by the BC Schizophrenia Society. FREE to attend, but pre-registration is required before April 13. From 9am – 4pm at 1131 – 6 Ave., Prince George. Lunch provided. Call Kim Dixon at 1-888-561-8055 or (250) 561-8033.

Conferences

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. Registration fee: $450; Student and daily rates available. 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 4th 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. Conference fee: $595; Student rate available. For additional information or conference registration visit www.bcmhas.ca or 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.
   >> learn more about CMHA BC's Mental Health and Police Project on the website at www.cmha.bc.ca.

Psychosocial Issues in Bipolar Disorder Conference – April 14 [back to top]
Bipolar disorder is a serious mood disorder that affects 2-4% of all Canadians. In addition to medication, psychosocial treatment interventions are increasingly recognized as being a vital component in the comprehensive management of bipolar disorder. Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments, UBC Department of Psychiatry and the CREST.BD team (a collaborative network funded by MSFHR to focus on research into psychosocial issues in BD) come together to offer key teachings in this area. Join us at this one-day education event, and learn from international leading experts on BD. Registration fee: $125. A reduced rate of $75 is being offered to people with mental illness. Registration closes April 6. View event and registration details in PDF format at www.mhanet.ca.

R & R of Mental Health: Rehabilitation & Recovery Conference – April 27 [back to top]
Mental health professionals, caregivers, and consumers of Vancouver Coastal Health are invited to attend a mental health conference presented by Vancouver Acute and Community Mental Health Services. Topics include Treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder, The Effectiveness of Outreach, Rehabilitation and Recovery in Film, and Community Mental Health Programs. Registration fee: $50; $45 before March 23. From 8am to 4pm at Plaza Hotel, 500 West 12th Ave., Vancouver. For more information call 604-875-4812.

Rethinking Risk – McCreary Youth Foundation Annual Conference on Youth – April 27 + 28 [back to top]
This conference for youth workers, academics, and young people will explore the theme "Rethinking Risk" and will challenge conference participants on concepts of risk and to consider both the positive and negative aspects of the risky and risk-taking behaviours of adolescents. The conference presentations will feature topics such as assessment, risk from a youth's perspective, building resiliency, high risk/vulnerability, and fostering positive youth development. Conference fee: $200. To register, visit www.myfoundation.ca or contact Sarah Day or Kathy Powelson at 604-299-1609 or info@myfoundation.ca.

Family Matters Conference in Niagara Falls, ON – May 3 – 5 [back to top]
Family Matters: Building Your Toolkit is a conference focused on families in the mental health system. The conference is for family members, consumers and mental health professionals. It is an opportunity to explore important questions about how to support families, how to facilitate recovery, how to better integrate family members into treatment planning, and how to balance the needs of families and consumers. Presented by The Mood Disorders Association of Ontario and The Schizophrenia Society of Ontario. Registration fees: $225-$300. For more information, please visit www.mooddisorders.on.ca or www.schizophrenia.on.ca

First National Child & Youth Mental Health Day Conference – May 7 [back to top]
the FORCE Society for Kid's Mental Health and Parents for Children's Mental Health present the First National Child and Youth Mental Health Day Conference featuring keynote speaker Michael Kirby, former senator and co-author of Out of the Shadows at Last, the federal report on 'Transforming Mental Health, Mental Illness, and Addiction Services in Canada.' Registration fee: $100; Families/caregivers $20. Seating is limited. At The Chan Auditorium, BC Children's Hospital, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver. To register, visit www.bckidsmentalhealth.org or www.parentsforchildrensmentalhealth.org.
   >> if the topic of child and youth mental health interests you, read the 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.

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