VOLUME 41: May 2006 | online at www.cmha.bc.ca/enews/enewsmay06.htm

CMHA News
Help Us Make a Difference!
Jean Moore Wins Volunteer Vancouver Award
Mental Health Week 2006
Awards Program Seeks Nominations
Vancouver/Burnaby Branch Special Events
North Shore Health Lecture Series
Consumers In Action Program
Pills or Skills? Controversies in Treating Depression & Anxiety Disorders

New CMHA BC Fund:
The Dr. Jean Moore Endowment Fund in Child and Youth Mental Health

Canadian Research
Study Examines Personal Impact of Housing Loss
Study Explores Immigrants’ Underuse of Mental Health Services
Relationship With Case Manager Predicts Improved Community Support
Study Links Obesity With Depression
Study Finds Correlation Between Premature Delivery and Antidepressant Use
Protein Blocks Alzheimer's Toxins in Lab Tests

Research From Around the World
Transition to Menopause Linked to Depressed Mood
New Behavioural Treatment Found More Effective Than Standard Group Treatment
Mothers with Serious Mental Illness More Likely to Have Contact With Child Welfare Services
FDA Approves First Patch to Treat ADHD

New Programs, Resources and Annoucements
Health Canada Advisory on Antidepressants for Expecting Mothers
BC Commits $15 Million to Alzheimer’s Cure
Planning Underway for 211 Service in BC
Service Canada: Quick and Easy Access to Government Services
Moving Lives Forward Scholarship
Research Bulletin on Mental Health and Addictions in Women
Workplace Mental Health Action Plan Available
New Eating Disorders Online Resource
World Mad Pride Festival - Call For Artwork
BC Mental Health and Addictions Research Network Seeking Communications Assistant

Public Education Events
Movie Mondays in Victoria
Caregiver Support Program
Free Performance of Victoria Maxwell’s "Crazy For Life" in Gibsons
Courage To Come Back Awards Gala
Free Symposium - Alcohol: Estimating Benefits and Harms
Frames of Mind Film Mental Health Film Festival
Addiction Education Sessions for Family and Friends in Comox
Families Against Addiction Awareness Walk

Courses and Workshops
Helping the Helper Non-profit Management Workshops
De-stress With Laughter and Yoga
Integrating Treatment for Substance Use, Mental Health Problems, and Trauma in Women
Silent Men, Angry Women:How Therapists Can Address Common Gender Issues in Relationships
Family and Friend Caregiver Forum 2006
Fostering Hope Self Abuse Workshop
Showcasing Family Initiatives Workshop

Conferences
Late Adolescents and Adults with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Conference
Caring for Complex Clients Conference
Supporting Protecting, Intervening and Rehabilitating Young People
7th Annual National Shared Mental Health Care Conference in Calgary
Western Regional Clubhouse Conference in Nanaimo
Art & Science of Psychotherapy Conference
Canadian Population Health Association 97th Annual Conference
David Berman Memorial Concurrent Disorders Conference
Maternal Child Youth Conference 2006
Human Rights & Accommodation 2006 Conference

CMHA News

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

Jean Moore Wins Volunteer Vancouver Award [back to top]
CMHA BC Division is delighted to announce that after being shortlisted from nearly 150 qualified candidates, Jean Moore was honoured as the winner of Volunteer Vancouver’s prestigious 2006 Community Service – Individual Award at a special awards gala on April 24. In recognition of this well-deserved honour, and the outstanding service and support Dr. Moore has provided to CMHA over the years, CMHA BC has launched the Dr. Jean Moore Child and Youth Mental Health Endowment Fund. The endowment fund was officially launched at CMHA BC Division’s Volunteer Appreciation Reception, honouring Jean’s contributions, at the Vancouver Art Gallery on April 25. Learn more about the fund in our May feature.

Mental Health Week 2006 – May 1-7 [back to top]
CMHAs across the country are excited to take part in our 55th annual Mental Health Week, May 1 – 7. This year’s theme challenges British Columbians to evaluate their mental well-being and take active steps to improve their mental health. Taking control of your health means taking control of your mind. From kite festivals to dances to yoga – and so much more. See below for a listing of local events in your community.
     Escents Aromatherapy is proud to support the work of CMHA BC Division and, beginning Mental Health Week, will be profiling some useful brochures at their seven BC locations—North Vancouver, Victoria, Richmond, Coquitlam, Whistler and two locations in Vancouver—and online at www.escents.ca.
     CMHA National also has some great articles and quizzes you can use in your community around mental fitness. How's your mental fitness? Try the mental health meter.

Awards Program Seeks Nominations – Due June 30 [back to top]
CMHA BC Division’s Awards program is back. Do you know a person or organization committed to the cause of mental health and the values that CMHA was founded on? Of so, we’d like to recognize their outstanding work in the service of mental health promotion and support for people with mental illnesses and their families. Visit www.cmha.bc.ca to learn more and download the nomination form. Deadline for submissions is June 30.

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.
May 5 – Bowen Island Trip
May 8 – Whistler Day Trip
May 12 – Make Your Own Sushi
May 15 – Lynn Loop Hike
May 19 – Beats on Broadway
May 29 – White Rock and Ice Cream

North Shore Health Lecture Series [back to top]
The free weekly Health Lecture Series organized by CMHA North and West Vancouver meets on the 2nd floor of the John Braithwaite Community Centre at 145 West 1st Street in North Vancouver (between Chesterfield and Lonsdale Avenue). All lectures start at 7pm. For more information please phone (604) 987-6959 or visit www.cmhanwv.com.
May 3 – North Shore Employment, Education and Volunteer Task Group
May 10 – Traumatic Stress and EMDR Treatment
May 17 – Ten Top Tips of Life Long Health
May 24 – What It Means To Be Human
May 31 – Treating Depression and Anxiety with Traditional Chinese Medicine

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

Pills or Skills? Controversies in Treating Depression & Anxiety Disorders – May 25 [back to top]
You’re invited to a dynamic evening presentation for mental health professionals and for the general public on the latest controversies and research around causes, treatments, and politics of mental illness. A free evening presentation sponsored by Jack Hirose & Associates in conjunction with the CMHA Richmond. 7pm - 9:30pm on Thursday, May 25 at the Best Western Richmond Inn Hotel and Conference Centre 7551 Westminster Highway, Richmond BC.

New CMHA BC Fund: Dr. Jean Moore Endowment Fund in Child and Youth Mental Health The CMHA BC is honouring the outstanding contributions to the community of volunteer, Dr. Jean Moore, with the launch of a new endowment fund dedicated for child and youth mental health in her name. Contributions to the fund will support CMHA BC activities that enhance, through innovation, the lives of children and youth living with or at risk for mental illness. In BC, 140,000 children and teens have a mental illness; that’s 1 in 7 young people. "Child and youth mental health is an issue for which Dr. Moore cares deeply," says Bev Gutray, Executive Director of the CMHA BC Division. "This fund is a small way to express the gratitude we feel to be able to benefit from the wisdom, commitment, leadership and dedication of one of the most outstanding volunteers in BC, while providing hope to the thousands of families in BC affected by child and youth mental illness." At a special awards gala on April 24th, after being shortlisted from nearly 150 qualified candidates, Jean Moore was honoured as the winner of Volunteer Vancouver’s prestigious 2006 Community Service – Individual Award. "I am so honoured to be a recipient of one of the Volunteer Vancouver awards and to have an endowment fund established in my name," says Dr. Moore. "Child and youth mental health is a passion of mine and should be a high priority for all of us. How we treat vulnerable children and youth sets the stage for the future." In her retirement, Dr. Moore volunteers an average of 20 hours a week for CMHA alone. Her volunteer activity with CMHA has spanned over 30 years in Alberta and British Columbia, at local branch, provincial and national levels of CMHA. She is also a volunteer leader with First Call: BC’s Child and youth Advocacy Coalition and Theatre Terrific. "With signature grace and kindness, Dr. Moore embodies the spirit of volunteerism and the power of individuals to create positive change their communities," says Gutray. "It is this spirit we hope to capture and encourage through this fund." The endowment fund was officially launched at CMHA BC Division’s Volunteer Appreciation Reception, honouring Jean’s contributions, at the Vancouver Art Gallery Tuesday, April 25, 2006. Representatives from the BC Ministry of Children and Youth and the Provincial Health Services Authority as well as 70 friends and colleagues from various sectors were in attendance. The first $5,000 to the Dr. Jean Moore Endowment Fund in Child and Youth Mental Health will be donated by CMHA BC Division. The annual accrued interest from the endowment fund will support activities in child and youth mental health, as determined by CMHA BC’s Board of Directors. Would you like to contribute to the lives of BC children and youth with or at risk for mental illness? Donate online or by phone at 604-688-3234 (within the Lower Mainland) or 1-800-555-8222.

Canadian Research

Study Examines Personal Impact of Housing Loss [back to top]
According to the authors of a study published in Psychiatric Services, people with mental illness who lose their homes experience levels of loss and destruction similar to those caused by a tornado. From focus group data on the personal experiences related to housing of people with mental illness in Ontario, the authors proposed the metaphor of a tornado to describe the devastation and loss experienced by the participants. Three phases were identified: losing ground, struggling to survive and gaining stability. See "Surviving the Tornado of Mental Illness: Psychiatric Survivors’ Experiences of Getting, Losing and Keeping Housing," Psychiatric Services (April 2006; 57 [4]: 558-562). An abstract with paid access to the full text is available at www.psychservices.psychiatryonline.org.
   >> if the topic of housing and mental health interests you, check out the Visions Journal issue on Housing in our Journal archives on the CMHA BC website.

Study Explores Immigrants’ Underuse of Mental Health Services [back to top]
A study published recently in the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry explores immigrants’ reasons for not using mental health services when they were experiencing mental health problems. The participants – 15 members of the West Indian community in Montreal - were asked about their experiences with the health and mental health systems and why they were currently not seeking mental health services in spite of experiencing troubling symptoms. The authors found that participants showed negative attitudes towards medication and described doctors as being overwilling to prescribe medication. See "Understanding Immigrants’ Reluctance to Use Mental Health Services: A Qualitative Study From Montreal," Canadian Journal of Psychiatry (March 2006; 51 [4]: 205-209) available at www.cpa-apc.org.

Relationship With Case Manager Predicts Improved Community Support [back to top]
A study published recently in the Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal found that the nature of the working relationship between case manager and client was one of the factors that predicted improvement in the client's community functioning, including behavioural problems, community adjustment and social competence. See "Which Factors Predict Case Management Services and How Do These Services Relate to Client Outcomes?" Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal (Winter 2006; 29 (3): 219-222) available at prj.metapress.com.

Study Links Obesity With Depression [back to top]
Canadians suffering from depression are more likely to be obese than the general population, suggests a new study by researchers at the University Health Network in Toronto. The study, published this month in the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, found the link between mood disorders and obesity was particularly pronounced amongst women. There was also a strong association between depression and obesity in lower socioeconomic groups. See "Obesity, depression might have same root causes," at www.canada.com.

Study Finds Correlation Between Premature Delivery and Antidepressant Use [back to top]
Taking certain antidepressants during pregnancy may increase the risk of premature delivery, underweight babies, stillbirths and seizures in newborns, a Canadian study suggests. The study led by researchers at the Ottawa Health Research Institute found pregnant women who took Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft and other selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, had a higher incidence of adverse birth outcomes compared with women who weren't taking the popular drugs while pregnant. See "Antidepressants while pregnant may cause pre-term babies," at chealth.canoe.ca. See also Health Canada's advisory about antidepressants and expectant mothers, "Newer antidepressants linked to serious lung disorders in newborns," at www.hc-sc.gc.ca. You many also be interested in Dr. Shaila Kulkarni Misri's new book on depression during pregnancy, Pregnany Blues, available at www.wellmother.com.

Protein Blocks Alzheimer's Toxins in Lab Tests [back to top]
A naturally occurring protein in the brain seems to curb the nerve damage of Alzheimer's disease, Canadian researchers have found. The discovery could eventually help lead to a better treatment for the disease, which is the most common form of dementia and affects 10 per cent of people over 65 – about 290,000 Canadians. Supervising author Prof. Paul Fraser and his team at the Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases at the University of Toronto describe the discovery in the journal Nature. See 'Protein blocks Alzheimer's toxins in lab tests," at www.cbc.ca/news.

Research from around the World

Transition to Menopause Linked to Depressed Mood [back to top]
According to a recent study published in Archives of General Psychiatry, the transition to menopause and changes in hormonal levels are strongly associated with the onset of depressed mood among women with no history of depression. Results from the study show that women in the menopausal transition were more than four times more likely to report depressive symptoms than during premenopause. See "Associations of Hormones and Menopausal Status with Depressed Mood in Women with No History of Depression," Archives of General Psychiatry (April 2006; 63: 375-382). An abstract with paid access to the full text is available at www.archpsyc.ama-assn.org.

New Behavioural Treatment Found More Effective Than Standard Group Treatment [back to top]
A study published recently in Archives of General Psychiatry found that a new behavioural treatment program for drug abuse in people with severe and persistent mental illness (SPMI) was more effective than the standard group treatment program. The authors found that compared to those who a participated in a standard treatment, the group receiving Behavioral Treatment for Substance Abuse in SPMI (BTSAS) – an integrated approach of motivational interviewing, contingency contracts monitored by urinalysis, structured goal setting, and education and training in social skills, drug refusal skills and relapse prevention - did better in all outcomes measured. See "A Randomized Clinical Trial of a New Behavioral Treatment for Drug Abuse in People with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness," Archives of General Psychiatry (April 2006; 63: 426-432). An abstract with paid access to the full text is available at archpsyc.ama-assn.org.

Mothers with Serious Mental Illness More Likely to Have Contact With Child Welfare Services [back to top]
A study published in Psychiatric Services found that mothers with schizophrenia and major affective disorders were almost three times more likely than mothers without mental illness to have any involvement with the child welfare system or to have had their children placed in care. In a study sample of 4827 mothers, of whom 7.2 percent had a serious mental illness, more than 14 percent of the mothers with serious mental illness received child welfare services compared to 4.2 percent of mothers without a diagnosis of mental illness. See "Involvement in the Child Welfare System among Mothers with Serious Mental Illness," Psychiatric Services (April 2006; 57 [4]: 493-497). An abstract with paid access to full text is available at psychservices.psychiatryonline.org.
   >> if the topic of parenting and mental health interests you, check out the Visions Journal issue on Parenting in our Journal archives on the CMHA BC website.

FDA Approves First Patch to Treat ADHD [back to top]
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first skin patch to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children. The patch called Daytrana, designed to be worn for nine hours, contains methylphenidate, the same stimulant that is in Ritalin, which has been shown to help children with ADHD. In December, a FDA panel of independent experts voted to recommend that the patch's label encourage its use as an alternative treatment for children ages six to 12 with ADHD, meaning doctors should prescribe it only if taking pills is too difficult for a child. See " FDA approves first patch to treat ADHD," at chealth.canoe.ca.

New Programs, Resources and Announcements

Health Canada Advisory on Antidepressants for Expecting Mothers [back to top]
Health Canada is advising women who are taking antidepressants known as Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors (SSRI) and who are pregnant or intend to become pregnant to discuss the situation with their doctor due to potential risks to the baby. Health Canada stresses that patients should not stop taking SSRI medication without first consulting their doctors, as they could experience serious side effects. Generally, SSRI treatment should only be continued if the benefits to the individual patient are thought to outweigh the risks to the unborn child, while also considering the benefits and risks of switching to another treatment option or stopping treatment altogether. See " Newer antidepressants linked to serious lung disorders in newborns," at www.hc-sc.gc.ca.

BC Commits $15 Million to Alzheimer’s Cure [back to top]
British Columbia plans to lead the world in finding a cure for Alzheimer's disease through a commitment of $15 million in research funding to the Pacific Alzheimer Research Foundation - a newly established charitable society whose mission is to eradicate Alzheimer's and related dementias. See "BC commits $15 million to Alzheimer’s Cure," at chealth.canoe.ca.

Planning Underway for 211 Service in BC [back to top]
The Province is providing $600,000 in combination with $300,000 from the United Ways of BC to build a plan for a BC211 Service. 211 is an easy-to-remember telephone number linking people to a full range of non-emergency health and social services offered by community agencies and government. BC211 will be staffed by information and referral specialists trained to assist people in accessing the variety of programs and services delivered across the province and inside communities. The service will be free, confidential, multilingual and also accessible online. See "211 Plan Underway With Province, United Way Funding," at www.news.gov.bc.ca.
   >> for 24 hour information on mental health and mental health services in your area, call the BC Mental Health Infomation Line at (604) 669-7600 (in the Lower Mainland) or 1-800-661-2121. CMHA BC runs the Mental Health Information Line on behalf of the BC Partners for Mental Health and Addictions Information.

Service Canada: Quick and Easy Access to Government Services [back to top]
Service Canada is a new initiative to provide Canadians with easy access to government services, including information on employment, health, tax, consumer, safety, economic, travel, recreation and education. The goal of Service Canada is to provide better, one-stop service to more Canadians in more communities, delivered with the right service attitude. Over time, it will bring federal services and benefits together making it easier for Canadians get more of the help they need in one place, whether by phone, Internet or in person. You can access Service Canada by telephone at 1-800 O-CANADA (1-800-662-6232), online at www.servicecanada.gc.ca, or through a local Service Canada Centre.

Moving Lives Forward Scholarship – Applications Due June 30 [back to top]
Opening the door to educational opportunities is a positive way for people with mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder to realize their potential. The Moving Lives Forward Scholarship is offered by Eli Lilly Canada, the BC Schizophrenia Society and the Mood Disorders Association of BC, to help people acquire the educational or vocational skills necessary to reintegrate into society and help them move forward with their lives. There are 6 scholarships of $750.00 and 2 scholarships of $1,500.00 to be awarded by lottery to people who meet the criteria. For further information, or if you have any questions, please call (604) 873-0103 or email mdabc@telus.net.
   >> CMHA's Lorne Fraser bursary fund for post-secondary education has just closed its application period. Stay tuned this summer for details on the winners! The Lorne Fraser Fund has helped 72 people since 1982.

Research Bulletin on Mental Health and Addictions in Women [back to top]
Mental Health and Addictions in Women is the theme of the Spring 2006 issue of the Centres of Excellence for Women’s Health Research Bulletin. The issue presents articles that explore issues surrounding sex, gender and women’s health in relation to mental health and problematic substance use. Available in PDF and HTML format at www.cewh-cesf.ca.
   >> if the topic of women's mental health interests you, check out the Visions Journal issue on Women in our Journal archives on the CMHA BC website (see also the 1998 issue on Women).

Workplace Mental Health Action Plan Available [back to top]
The Global Business and Economic Roundtable on Addiction and Mental Health has released its latest paper exploring the problems and proposing solutions to deal with mental illness in the workplace, including a model for action. The 2006 Business and Economic Plan for Mental Health and Productivity includes modules to help employers create mental disability management systems and comprehensive stress policies, as well as understand their legal obligations in accommodating people with mental illnesses in the workplace. See "2006 Business and Economic Plan for Mental Health and Productivity," at www.mentalhealthroundtable.ca.
   >> learn more about supporting people with mental illness in the workplace with the Mental Health Works program and other resources available on the CMHA BC website.

New Eating Disorders Online Resource [back to top]
A new section on eating disorders at www.suite101.com features new articles, blog entries and polls each week, as well some eating disorders resources and a discussion board for sharing stories and experiences. The site is run by Lori Henry, local body image advocate, poet, editor, and writer from Vnacouver. Visit the website at eatingdisorders.suite101.com.
   >> learn more about eating disorders in the Visions Journal issue on Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating in our Journal archives on the CMHA BC website

World Mad Pride Festival - Call For Artwork – May 10 Deadline [back to top]
Local and international artists, both emerging and professional, are invited to participate in an interdisciplinary call for work addressing mental health issues, art and healing, and human rights and psychiatry. The 2000 World Mad Pride festival will take place June 2 – July 2, featuring visual arts, film screenings, spoken word, and panel discussions in Vancouver venues, including Simon Fraser University, Carnegie Community Centre, 29 West Hastings and Gallery Gachet. All artistic mediums will be accepted and a print and online catalogue will be produced and provided free to participating artists. Deadline for artwork submissions is May 10. For more information, email madpride@gachet.org.

BC Mental Health and Addictions Research Network Seeking Communications Assistant – Applications Due April 30 [back to top]
The BC Mental Health and Addictions Research Network is currently seeking a Communications Assistant to work their Vancouver office three days per week. The mission of the Network is to contribute to the excellence of mental health and addictions research in British Columbia by strengthening relationships among researchers across disciplines, institutions and health services organizations. A job description is posted at www.mhanet.ca. Closing date for applications is April 30, or until the position is filled.

Public Education Events

Movie Mondays in Victoria [back to top]
Every Monday at 6:30 pm, Bruce Saunders' Movie Monday project presents free movies at the Eric Martin Pavilion at the 1900 block of Fort Street in Victoria. More details at www.islandnet.com/mm.
May 1 - La Neuvaine
May 6 – Saturday Event at 7:00 pm - Circumpolar Bears
May 8 – A Place Where Ships Go To Die
May 15 – Joe Gould’s Secret
May 22 – Blue
May 29 – Corpse Bride
June 5 – My Architect: A Son’s Journey

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

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

Courage To Come Back Awards Gala - May 4 [back to top]
The Coast Foundation invites you to join Honorary Chair, Silken Laumann and Global Television's Deborra Hope for an unforgettable evening that celebrates the courage and triumphs of ordinary people. The Courage to Come Back 8th Annual Awards Dinner honours six individuals who have achieved extraordinary comebacks in each of the following categories: Mental Health, Physical Rehabilitation, Medical, Addiction, Social Adversity and Youth. At the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Vancouver. Tickets: $150. Visit www.coastfoundation.com for more infomation.
   >> Join 2006 Courage to Come Back award winner, Renea Mohammed for a public discussion after the free Mental Health Week screening of A Beggar's Description on May 2. Doors at 7pm, Ralph Fisher Auditorium, Richmond Hospital, 7000 Westminster Hwy. Presented in partnership by Richmond Mental Health Services, Richmond Mental Health Consumer and Friends Society, BC Schizophrenia Society and CMHA Richmond branch.

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

Frames of Mind Film Mental Health Film Festival – May 4 – 7 [back to top]
From grizzly bears to psychiatric care, the Third Annual Frames of Mind Mental Health Film Festival focuses on a wide variety of issues relating to mental health and illness. Presented in partnership with the UBC Department of Psychiatry, the festival continues to grow in popularity and scope, and this year sees its largest ever presentation, with four days of screenings and workshops at Pacific Cinémathèque. This year's festival includes six features and two short films, each followed by lively discussion led by filmmakers and speakers from a diverse range of mental health and film backgrounds. For more information, and a full listing festival screenings, please visit www.cinematheque.bc.ca/framesofmind.
May 5 - Phil the Alien - free screening at 1:30pm - A not-so-classic coming of age story, told            through the bloodshot eyes of an alcoholic alien. Stand Up For Mental Health will also            be performing. Heather Edgar from Coast Foundation will make some opening remarks            and there will be a discussion after the film lead by Dr. Harry Karlinsky, Frames of Mind            Festival Director, from the Dept of Psychiatry at UBC.

Addiction Education Sessions for Family and Friends in Comox - May 9 [back to top]
Comox Valley Mental and Addiction Services (CVMHAS) has developed a group to address the impact of addiction family, friends, colleagues and employers. The "Addiction and Recovery Education" series aims to provide information about what addiction and recovery are; how people change their behaviour; how to help someone with an addiction problem; what is available locally; and self-care. The four-session series will run Tuesday evenings from 7:00pm - 9:00pm beginning May 9. Lillian Ramsden, addictions counsellor, and Sam Sommers, addictions team co-ordinator, will present the series. Registration is required. Call CVMHAS for more information at (250) 338-9777.

Families Against Addiction Awareness Walk – May 14 [back to top]
Families Against Addiction is a group of mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers, friends and relatives who are committed to finding solutions and take action against the reign of suffering and terror that drug addiction has brought into our homes and neighborhoods. The Awareness Walk is designed to create awareness and connect people who care about problems related to addiction. The Awareness Walk begins at 1:00pm on May 14, in Victory Square (Cambie & Hastings), Vancouver. To help or for more information email we.will.do.it@gmail.com.

Courses and Workshops

Helping the Helper Non-profit Management Workshops [back to top]
This series of workshops, sponsored by Coast Capital Savings and The Centre for Non Profit Management in partnership with the University of Victoria's Centre for Public Sector Studies, is designed to help non-profit organizations increase their resourcefulness and adapt to new demands and opportunities in the marketplace. The workshops are held 8:30am – 4:30pm in the Lower Mainland (Executive Hotel & Conference Centre, 4201 Lougheed Highway, Burnaby) and Vancouver Island (Dunsmuir Lodge, Room 150, 1515 McTavish Road, Sidney). Workshop fees: $60 each. Coast Capital Savings member and group rates available. Details and registration at www.coastcapitalsavings.com or 1-866-760-2005.
May 16 - Vancouver Island – Brandstorming: The Not-for-Profit Branding Studio
May 18 - Lower Mainland – Brandstorming: The Not-for-Profit Branding Studio
June 6 - Vancouver Island – Developing a High Performance Board of Directors
June 8 - Lower Mainland – Developing a High Performance Board of Directors

De-stress With Laughter and Yoga - May 2 [back to top]
Dogwood Pavilion is hosting a de-stressing workshop that combines the benefits of both yoga and laughter. Laughter has been proven to reduce stress, pain and depression while improving creativity, physical vitality and a sense of well-being. The workshop is designed to allow participants to release emotional tension, exercise their facial muscles and prevent hardening of the attitudes. 10:30 - 11:30am at Dogwood Pavilion, a recreation facility for adults 50 and older, located at 624 Poirier St. in Coquitlam. Workshop fee: $7.49. To register, call (604) 933-6098.

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

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

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

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

Showcasing Family Initiatives Workshop – June 9 [back to top]
Psychosocial Rehabilitation of BC (PSR-BC) is organizing a workshop on family initiatives in mental health. Program includes experiences, family support and involvement planning, collaboration between professionals and families, developing family peer support, early psychosis intervention and family representative agreements. 8:00am – 4:00pm in the HEY Building, Auditorium B, Riverview Hospital, Coquitlam. Conference Fee: $60; Consumer/Family Member Rate: $30; Free for PSR-BC members. For more information, view the PDF brochure at www.psr-rps-bc.com or email psr-bc@telus.net.

Conferences

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

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

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

7th Annual National Shared Mental Health Care Conference in Calgary - May 11 – 13 [back to top]
Calgary Health Region, Chinook Health Region and Canadian Collaborative Mental Health Initiative are proud to host the 7th Annual National Shared Mental Health Care Conference in beautiful Calgary, Alberta, Canada May 11 – 13th, 2006. The conference will bring together hundreds of primary care and mental health professionals including family physicians, mental health clinicians, psychiatrists, program developers, policy makers, funders and consumers from across Canada and abroad. Conference Fee- Health Professional/Public Rate: $300. Student and Physician Rate available. Registration deadline: May 1. See www.shared-care.ca for details.

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

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

Canadian Population Health Association 97th Annual Conference – May 28 - 31 [back to top]
Many factors – such as education, income, ethnicity and gender and their interaction over time – influence the health of individuals, communities, populations and whole societies. The CPHA 97th Annual Conference Theme, "What Determines the Public's Health", will address these issues and more. The Conference is geared to public health practitioners, policy-makers, and researchers from a range of disciplines (e.g., epidemiology, social sciences, geography, nursing, etc.) and sectors. In Vancouver. In partnership with: Canadian Institute for Health Information – Canadian Population Health Initiative, Canadian Institutes of Health Research – Institute of Population and Public Health, Public Health Agency of Canada, In association with: Public Health Association of British Columbia. Full 4-Day registration: $490. Daily, First-Time Attendee, Student Rates available. Visit www.cpha.ca for more information.

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

Maternal Child Youth Conference 2006 – June 2 – 3 [back to top]
This conference will provide an exciting opportunity to explore current trends in maternal, child and youth health. Participants will learn about evidence based programs and services from around the country and strategies for promoting linkages between the hospital and the community. At the Coast Plaza Hotel and Suites at Stanley Park, 1763 Comox St., Vancouver. 2-Day Conference Fee: $375; Single Day: $200. Registration before May 10 is strongly recommended to ensure you receive all conference materials. View the full brochure online at www.interprofessional.ubc.ca.

Human Rights & Accommodation 2006 Conference – June 8 [back to top]
Includes panel discussions on harassment at work, proving and disproving discrimination, absenteeism and disability accommodation, and mental health in the workplace, with panelist, CMHA BC’s Margaret Tebbutt, Manager, Mental Health Works. 8:45am – 4:45pm at the Hyatt Regency, 655 Burrard St., Vancouver. Registration Fee: $595; Early Bird Rate: $495. Early Bird registration closes May 18. Details at www.lancasterhouse.com/conferences.

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