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

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

CMHA NEWS:

CMHA Community Navigators Improve Access to Mental Health Services
Bounce Back Reaches 10 More Communities
Beyond the Blues Brings Awareness to 50 Sites in BC
Mental Health Works Offers Free Workshops for Small to Medium-sized Businesses
Responding with Respect—Public Mental Illness First Aid Course
North Shore Health Lecture Series
Vancouver/Burnaby Branch Special Events
Kelowna Branch's Wellness Development Centre Re-opens

FEATURED PROGRAM:
What is the Registered Disability Savings Plan?

CANADIAN RESEARCH:
People With Depression Seek Cardiovascular Help More than Others After Heart Attack
New Report Explores Community-Based Solutions to Criminalization of People with Mental Illness
Different Types of Housing Needs and Preferences for People with Mental Illness
Collection of Papers Shed Light on Community Mental Health and More
Exploring the Issue of Bipolar Disorder in Children
Canadians are Waiting Longer for Psychiatric Treatment This Year

RESEARCH FROM AROUND THE WORLD:

Supported Employment Services are Cheaper to Provide to People with Mental Illness
St. John Wort Found to be Just as Effective as Other Antidepressants
Difficulty Getting a Good Night’s Sleep Linked to Mental Illness and Drug Use
Low Functioning Familes Mean Poorer Access to Mental Health Services for Children
Anxiety Disorders in Children Best Treated with Psychotherapy and Antidepressants
Integrating Mental Health Into Primary Care: A Global Perspective

NEW PROGRAMS AND RESOURCES:

PTSD, Anxiety and Depression Clinic to Open in Vancouver
Addressing Physical Health Needs Within Mental Healthcare Webcast
Tardive Dyskinesia Monthly Support Group
Children's Grief Support Program
New Guide on Promoting Seniors' Mental Health in Cancer Care
Poster Created to Bring Holistic Message to Young Women's Health
FRIENDS Program Equips Children with Tools to Fight Anxiety

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Canadian Government Asked to Address Untreated Mental Illness in Children and Youth
Canada Post Launches Fundraiser Stamp for Mental Health

Call for Nominations – Awards for Excellence in Mental Health and Addictions
What Makes You Beautiful? Video Contest
Volunteers needed for a Research Study on PTSD and Unemployment
Mothers with Bipolar Disorder and their Children Needed for Study
Participants Needed for Study on New Depression and Anxiety Treatment
Seeking Participants for Study on Antipsychotics and Schizophrenia
Call for Research Internship Proposals On Mental Health and Addictions
Volunteers Needed for Research on Bipolar Depression

PUBLIC EDUCATIONS EVENTS:

Lecture Series on Bullying and its Effect on Mental Health
Movie Mondays in Victoria
Classes Aim to Educate and Promote General Mental Health and Well-Being
Fighting Their Fears: Child and Youth Anxiety
Presentation on Housing Issues
Psychiatric Concerns in Pregnancy and Postpartum Education Evening
Craft Sale and Silent Auction to Benefit People with Mental Illness
Stand Up For Mental Health 2008 Graduation Comedy Showcase
Now Who’s Crazy Now? Performance

COURSES AND WORKSHOPS:

CONFERENCES:

CMHA NEWS

CMHA Community Navigators Improve Access to Mental Health Services [back to top]
CMHA BC is proud to announce its partnership with BC's Ministry of Housing and Social Development to help connect people with mental illness to government programs and services. CMHA community navigators in five BC communities will work with homeless outreach workers to help people with mental illness apply and qualify for a variety of programs and services such as mental health services and a higher level of income assistance. See the press release to find out more.

Bounce Back Reaches Nine More Communities [back to top]
CMHA BC is excited to reach even more communities with Bounce Back: Reclaim Your Health, a new two-year program to help people with chronic physical conditions better manage low mood. The program is delivered in close collaboration with primary care practices and is funded by a grant from the Ministry of Health. As of November 1 services are now extended to Cowichan Valley, Kootenays, Mid-Island, North & West Vancouver, Port Alberni, Prince George, White Rock/South Surrey, Victoria and Williams Lake. Other BC communities will introduce Bounce Back in spring 2009. CMHA estimates that close to 50,000 people will be able to access Bounce Back interventions once the program is fully in place. Bounce Back began providing service in 100 Mile House, Kamloops, Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vernon and surrounding areas starting July 1, exclusively through referrals from primary care practitioners. Learn more at www.bouncebackbc.ca.

Beyond the Blues Brings Awareness to 50 Sites in BC [back to top]
A big thank you to everyone who contibuted to the success of this year's Beyond the Blues: Depression Anxiety Education and Screening events which took place in October at over 50 sites across BC. The awareness and education events are coordinated annually in October by CMHA BC Division on behalf of the BC Partners for Mental Health and Addictions Information. Sites also provide information on risky drinking and the link between alcohol, depression and anxiety. In addition to the annual on-site and telephone screenings, year-round self-tests for depression, anxiety and risky drinking are available online at www.heretohelp.bc.ca/events. Watch for a final report in the new year for 2008 Beyond the Blues highlights and outcomes.
>> Interested in hosting a Beyond the Blues event in October 2009? Contact beyondtheblues@heretohelp.bc.ca

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

Responding with Respect—Public Mental Illness First Aid Course - November 8 & 9
[back to top]
Presented by CMHA Vancouver-Burnaby Branch, this 16-hour course is designed to give individuals a better understanding of mental health and teach basic skills on helping people who are living with mental illnesses. The course is meant to reduce harm and save lives in those who are living with untreated mental illness. The course will provide information, strategies and community resources. Itwill be held at St. John’s Ambulance on 6111 Cambie Street (Near Oakridge Centre). The fee is $150 + GST. For registration contact Jaki Eisman at 604-872-4902 (ext. 231) or email mifa.vb@cmha.bc.ca

North Shore Health Lecture Series [back to top]
The 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). Admission by donation. All lectures start at 7pm. For more information please phone 604-987-6959 or visit www.northwestvancouver.cmha.bc.ca.
November 5 – Overcoming Addictions to Alcohol and Narcotics Using Hypnosis
November 12 – The Art of Acknowledgement
November 19 – Blessings of Having a Spiritual Master in Your Life
November 26 – Bounce Back: Reclaim Your Health DVD – Living Life to the Full

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.
November 7 – Charlie’s Chocolate Factory Tour
November 14 – Ice Skating and Hot Chocolate
November 17- Kilby Historic Site
November 21 – UBC Women’s and Men’s Basketball
November 24 – Watermania
November 28 – Christmas Craft Fair

Kelowna Branch's Wellness Development Centre Re-opens [back to top]
CMHA Kelowna Branch recently reopened its Kelowna Wellness Development Centre, which offers recreation and leisure pursuits, such as classes in yoga, relaxation, smoking cessation, weight management and crafts. All the people using the program live with mental health issues, are in various stages of recovery and want to focus on healthy living as a way through food, exercise, positive lifestyle choices and relationships. As of November 17, the centre will be open for regular hours from noon to 5pm Tuesday to Thursday. See the full announcement at www.kelowna.cmha.bc.ca


Featured Program:
What is the Registered Disability Savings Plan?
The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a new program from the federal government to help people with severe and prolonged disabilities—including mental illness—and their families save for long-term financial security. The RDSP will become available in December 2008.

Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the RDSP, you must be eligible for the Disability Tax Credit and have submitted a Form T2201, Disability Tax Credit Certificate to the Canada Revenue Agency. The two basic conditions are that your disability has lasted (or is likely to last) at least 12 months and your ability to carry out basic activities of daily living are significantly restricted. A brief questionnaire to help determine whether you qualify and Disability Tax Certificate application forms are available from the Canada Revenue Agency website at www.cra-arc.gc.ca/E/pbg/tf/t2201. Please take into consideration Disability Tax Credit application forms can take several weeks to process.

Who can contribute?
Anyone can contribute to an RDSP with the written permission of the plan holder. Contributions may come from family members, friends or beneficiaries themselves – anyone who would like to invest in the person’s long-term financial security. Contributions are allowed as long as the beneficiary is under 60 years of age and are limited to a lifetime maximum of $200,000 with no annual limit.

How can people with disabilities benefit from the RDSP?
1) Contributions are matched by federal grants
The federal government will match contributions made to the RDSP with Canada Disability Saving Grants (CDSG). The grant amount depends on the size of the annual contribution as well as family net income. Canadians with family incomes under $75,769 who deposit $1,500 can receive $3,500. These grants will be available until the year the beneficiary turns 49, to a maximum of $70,000.
2) Low-income families receive an additional bond
Families whose net income is $37,885 or less will receive annual Canada Disability Savings Bonds of up to $1,000 towards the RDSP. Like the grant, these bonds can be received until the year the beneficiary turns 49 years old, up to a lifetime limit of $20,000.
3) Investment income is tax-exempt until withdrawal
Earnings generated by contributions to the savings plan are tax-exempt while they stay in the plan. When earnings are withdrawn, they are taxable in the hands of the beneficiary and likely to be taxed at a lower rate.

What is the Ten Year Rule?
When a withdrawal is made from the RDSP, the last ten years of grants, bonds and associated investment income is repaid to the federal government. In other words, beneficiaries must wait 10 years after the last grant or bond is received to avoid penalties. The reason for the Ten Year Rule is to ensure that the RDSP is used to promote long-term retirement savings. For example, if withdrawals are not made until age 59, no repayment will be necessary because the federal grants and bonds would have ended ten years ago at age 49.

Will the RDSP affect my eligibility for Disability Benefits?
The BC Government is exempting RDSP savings and income as assets. This means that money held in an RDSP will not affect the $3000 limit placed on those receiving Persons With Disabilities (PWD) benefit or any other government assistance program.

For more information on RDSPs, visit the Canada Revenue Agency website or call 1-800-959-8281 (TTY users call 1-800-665-0354).

CANADIAN RESEARCH

People With Depression Seek Cardiovascular Help More than Others After Heart Attack
[back to top]
A study of nearly 2,000 people in Ontario found that people with depression symptoms use more cardiovascular health services after suffering from a heart attack than people with no symptoms. A large number of these individuals were female, less wealthy than the average, and suffering from other concurrent physical conditions such as diabetes. The results suggest that patients’ quality of life can be improved if they are screened for depression following a heart attack. To read the full study, see "The Relationship between Depressive Symptoms, Health Service Consumption, and Prognosis after Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Prospective Cohort Study" at www.biomedcentral.com

New Report Explores Community-Based Solutions to Criminalization of People with Mental Illness [back to top]
The St. Leonard’s Society of Canada and the Canadian Criminal Justice Association have been working on a project, which began in 2006, identifying factors that can reduce criminalization of people with mental illness. The findings of the project are now available in a report called Towards a Model Community Mental Health Strategy. The report brings together research from and discussions with various groups, including CMHA BC and an extensive literature review, and introduces a community-based approach to the problem. The model involves community collaboration, client-centred services focusing on self-management and recovery, professional cross-training, and public education.Part of this approach includes reducing stigma, increasing awareness and changing the way people look at mental illness. To read the full report, visit www.ccja-acjp.ca

Different Types of Housing Needs and Preferences for People with Mental Illness
[back to top]
A Montreal study was conducted between 2004-06, looking at the types of housing preferred by people living with mental illness in comparison to the types of housing their case managers preferred for them. The 315 participants of the study lived in several different types of housing, had a serious mental illness and were being supervised by a case manager. When asked, more people with mental illness who were not living independently wished to live in an autonomous setting, while the majority of their case managers preferred them to live in a structured, supervised environment. The study concluded that it is important to consider the wishes of both people with mental illness as well as their case managers, pay attention to the housing where they currently live and keep in mind that a variety of different types of housing are needed for people with mental illness. To download the full study with paid subscription in the Journal of Psychiatric Services, see "Housing for Person With Serious Mental Illness: Consumer and Service Provider Preferences" at ps.psychiatryonline.org

Collection of Papers Shed Light on Community Mental Health and More [back to top]
A collection of papers around the theme of mental health promotion in the community has been released by the Canadian Population Health Initiative (CPHI) in hopes of answering the questions “what contributes to a mentally healthy community?” and “what makes some communities more mentally healthy or resilient than others?” Many other topics are discussed in the papers, including spirituality, mental health in the workplace, social networks, and the needs of children and seniors. See "Mentally Healthy Communities: A Collection of Papers" at www.cihi.ca

Exploring the Issue of Bipolar Disorder in Children [back to top]
Children’s Mental Health Research Quarterly is an electronic publication prepared for Child and Youth Mental Health Services with British Columbia’s Ministry of Children and Family Development. Targeted towards policy-makers, practitioners, families and the general public, it explores various issues of children’s mental health, including the most recent information and research. The latest two issues look at bipolar disorder in children, outlining symptoms, causes, and treatments and medications. Download a PDF of the journal at www.childhealthpolicy.sfu.ca

Canadians are Waiting Longer for Psychiatric Treatment This Year [back to top]
The Fraser Institute has found that Canadians waited longer for psychiatric treatment in 2008 than in 2007. The average wait time of 18.6 weeks was also the longest national wait time ever measured for physical treatment. While the shortest average wait times were in Manitoba, BC and Ontario, they were much higher for people in provinces such as PEI, Newfoundland & Labrador and Alberta. According to Nadeem Esmail, Fraser Institute Director of Health System Performance Studies, long waits for health care a "a necessary evil Canadians must endure." To read the full story, see "Median wait times for psychiatric treatment in Canada extend to 18.6 weeks in 2008" at www.fraserinstitute.org

RESEARCH FROM AROUND THE WORLD

Supported Employment Services are Cheaper to Provide to People with Mental Illness
[back to top]
A study done in Wisconsin between 2002 and 2005 concludes that people living with serious mental illness are less expensive to provide with supported employment services than populations with other conditions and disabilities. Published in the Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal, the authors of the study suggest that this is a good argument to increase supported employment services to people with mental illness, such as depression and anxiety disorder. To download the complete study with paid subscription, see "The Costs of Providing Supported Employment Services to Individuals with Psychiatric Disabilities" at prj.metapress.com
>> Interested in workshops on managing mental health in your workplace? find out about Mental Health Works at www.mentalhealthworks.ca or contact Margaret Tebbutt at 1-800-555-8222

St. John Wort Found to be Just as Effective as Other Antidepressants [back to top]
St. John’s wort extract, also known as the extract of the plant Hypercium perforatum, is effective in treating mild to moderate depression, announces a study in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. The plant has traditionally been used in folk medicine to treat depression and sleep disorders. Researchers reviewed 29 trials of 5,489 patients with major depression and found that St. John’s wort extract was just as effective, and had fewer side effects than standard antidepressants and other remedies. Researchers urge people to first consult their doctor if they consider using St. John’s wort as a treatment for depression, as different varieties of the product vary on the market and its use can affect the actions of other beneficial drugs. Listen to the podcast or read more about the story "St. John's wort for major depression" at www.cochrane.org

Difficulty Getting a Good Night’s Sleep Linked to Mental Illness and Drug Use [back to top]
Sleep problems in teens and young adults can lead to mental illnesses and drug use, says a study published in the journal Sleep. In 1994-95, researchers interviewed 4,500 adolescents between the ages of 12-18, and a follow up was done in 2000-01 with 3,600 young adults between the ages of 18-25. Many who were interviewed admitted to having sleep troubles, and more than 9% had insomnia. People experiencing insomnia were 2.3 times more likely to develop depression. Specifically, 54% of the group with sleep problems reported depression, compared to 32% of those who slept well. The study also found that those with sleep problems were more likely to use alcohol, cannabis and non-cannabis drugs. Read "Sleep troubles in teens can lead to drug use and poor mental health" at www.cbc.ca

Low Functioning Familes Mean Poorer Access to Mental Health Services for Children
[back to top]
Children who come from families with high caregiver distress, low family functioning and low social support tend to have more mental health needs but often use less mental health services, a recent study published in Child Welfare found. Conducted in the States, the study looked at over 1000 caregivers of children who were considered at risk for these factors, noting that few children served by the child welfare system will access the mental health services that they need. This was true for families across all ethnicities and socio-economic status. Children in foster or substitute families were found to have caregivers more sensitive to their mental health needs. To purchase a copy of the journal issue and read the full study, see "The influence of family environment on mental health need and service use among vulnerable children" at www.cwla.org

Anxiety Disorders in Children Best Treated with Psychotherapy and Antidepressants
[back to top]
A combination of psychotherapy and antidepressants are the most effective in helping children with anxiety disorders, a recent study found. Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the study involved 488 children and adolescents between the ages of 7-17 with a primary diagnosis of separation anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, or social phobia. Results also showed that just cognitive behaviour therapy, as well as just antidepressants on their own, were good treatments. However, the highest improvements were seen when drugs and psychotherapy worked together. To read the full report, see "Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sertraline, or a Combination in Childhood Anxiety" at content.nejm.org

Integrating Mental Health Into Primary Care: A Global Perspective [back to top]
This report was jointly produced by the World Health Organization and the World Organization of Family Doctors, and it talks about the importance of primary mental health care. It discusses several community and hospital-based services, as well as the benefits of primary mental health care in improving access, promoting human rights and producing better results at a lower cost. There are also examples of best practices from various communities. To read the full report, see "Integrating Mental Health into Primary Care: A Global Perspective" at www.who.int

NEW PROGRAMS AND RESOURCES

PTSD, Anxiety and Depression Clinic to Open in Vancouver [back to top]
Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) is improving their standards to assist Veterans struggling with mental health issues. The Minister of Veterans Affairs has opened a new operational stress injury (OSI) clinic in Fredericton, announcing that more clinics are to open in Vancouver, Edmonton and Ottawa. The clinics provide treatment for people who are suffering from OSI, which includes post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. The clinic’s services include assessment, treatment, prevention, support programs, educational programs and counselling programs. Read “Mental Health Services Continuing to Improve” at www.vac-acc.gc.ca

Addressing Physical Health Needs Within Mental Healthcare Webcast [back to top]
This free, online webcast presentation features a group of experts exploring the important role of monitoring and managing the complete health of people who live with severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It is hosted by Eli Lilly and Company and the National Council for Community Behavioral HealthCare. The webcast will also look at programs who have successfully linked psychiatry and primary care to the well-being of people living with these mental illnesses. To view the webcast, visit www.thenationalcouncil.org

Tardive Dyskinesia Monthly Support Group [back to top]
The Tardive Dyskinesia Support Group includes those who have tardive dyskinesia and those who want to support them. The group meets on the second Wednesday of every month from 3-4:30 pm at PeerNetBC (formerly the Self-Help Resource Association), #306-1212 West Broadway, Vancouver. The group is funded by the Consumer Initiative Fund. For more information contact the project manager, Susan Trapp, by leaving a message at 604-733-6186.

Children's Grief Support Program - November 20, December 4 + 11 [back to top]
This support group is for children who are living with the death of a parent or other important adult, put on by the Vancouver Hospice Society and Vancouver Home Hospice Palliative Care Service. It aims at helping children heal through sharing, creative activity and peer support. There are three sessions left, on November 20, December 4 and December 11, each taking place from 4:30-6 pm. To register or learn more, call Camara at 604-218-5434 or email camaravc@telus.net

New Guide on Promoting Seniors' Mental Health in Cancer Care [back to top]
Frontline staff looking for advice on caring for older adults living with both cancer and mental health issues can now turn to this guide, which offers quick but informed opinions and practical information. It was designed by various health care providers, a lot of whom are active in the BC Psychogeriatric Association. To read the document online, visit www.ccsmh.ca

Poster Created to Bring Holistic Message to Young Women's Health [back to top]
A new poster called "Let's Talk: I'm More Than What You See" has been launched by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, which promotes a more holistic view of young women's health and aims to prevent and treat depression. It was developed as part of the Vibrant Action Looking Into Depression In Today's Young Women participatory research project, which encourages young women to share their experience of depression. The poster is aimed towards primary care and service providers in order to help them work with young women. Download the poster in English or French at www.camh.net/publications or email cathy_thompson@camh.net

FRIENDS Program Equips Children with Tools to Fight Anxiety [back to top]
The FFRIENDS program, sponsored by Child and Youth Mental Health Services, is a school-based program which focuses on early intervention and prevention. Its purpose is to reduce the risk of childhood anxiety disorders by giving children the right tools and skills to cope with their fears and difficult situations. The FRIENDS for Youth program was recently introduced for grade 7 students. Over four years, over 50,000 grade 4 and 5 students have been successfully exposed to the program. To find out more, visit www.mcf.gov.bc.ca or email mcf.cymhfriends@gov.bc.ca

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Canadian Government Asked to Address Untreated Mental Illness in Children and Youth
[back to top]
The federal government needs to better the mental health services for young people, says the president of the Canadian Psychological Association. Around 1.2 million Canadians up to the age of 20 live with mental disorders and very few receive necessary treatment. A major concern is that many young people will fail to meet their goals for the future if they don’t receive the care they need now, or if their disorders are left untreated. The Canadian Psychological Association has called on the next government to improve mental health services for children and asks the government to tackle the current problem of a shortage in school psychologists. Read “Better mental-health services needed for youth, group says” at www.cbc.ca

Canada Post Launches Fundraiser Stamp for Mental Health [back to top]
Canada Post issued a new Mental Health stamp to coincide with Mental Awareness Week in early October. The stamp is not only a sign of support for the one in five Canadians who live with Mental Illness, but also aims to promote change, reduce stigma and increase awareness of mental health issues. With every stamp book sold, one dollar will go towards the new Canada Post Foundation for Mental Health, an independent organization helping patients, their families and caregivers. The stamp bears the design of Paul Haslip of MH&E Design Communication and uses a photograph by Nigel Dickson. To read the full story, visit www.canadapost.com

Call for Nominations – Awards for Excellence in Mental Health and Addictions
Due November 14 [back to top]
The Kaiser Foundation is looking for nominations for its 2009 National Awards for Excellence in mental health and addictions initiatives. These awards hope to recognize exceptional work by Canadian organizations, communities and individuals who dedicate their time to bettering the health of others with no public acknowledgment or compensation. The seven award categories include public policy, community programming, Aboriginal programming, mental health and substance use programming, leadership, youth leadership, and media reporting. Awards of $10,000 will be donated to the recipients’ charity of choice. For more information please visit www.kaiserfoundation.ca or email awards@kaiserfoundation.ca

What Makes You Beautiful? Video Contest - Ends January 20, 2009 [back to top]
Jessie’s Hope Society is holding a video contest to find out from BC youth what makes them beautiful. BC residents between the ages of 13 and 25 are asked to submit their 3-minute videos on the topic “What makes you beautiful?” by uploading them to www.youtube.com/group/jessieshope. The winner will get a chance to receive a $2000 scholarship and get their video featured across BC in 2009. The deadline for submission is January 20, 2009.

Volunteers needed for a Research Study on PTSD and Unemployment [back to top]
Volunteers are needed for a research study seeking to identify the barriers faced by people living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) when returning to work, as well as the type of assistance they need while unemployed. Researchers are looking for participants between the ages of 21-60 who have been unemployed over the last 6 months and have been suffering from PTSD. Participants should be wiling to dedicate 15 hours over a 3 month period to this study. For more information, contact the Traumatic Stress Clinic, UBC Department of Psychiatry at 604-827-5531.

Mothers with Bipolar Disorder and their Children Needed for Study [back to top]
UBC Psychiatry and BC Children’s Hospital are calling for participants for a study on cognitive and emotional development. Eligible participants should be mothers over the age of 19 with bipolar disorder and their elementary school-aged children. For more information, please contact bipolar@devcogneuro.com or 604-827-3074.

Participants Needed for Study on New Depression and Anxiety Treatment [back to top]
A study looking at the stimulation of neurogenesis as a treatment for depression and anxiety is currently recruiting participants between the ages of 21-60. A new investigational treatment, BCI-540, is being evaluated for its safety and effectiveness as an alternative treatment for people who have not experienced relief from antidepressants. Participants are needed for two study facilities in Vancouver and two in the Okanagan. See "BCI-540" at www.clinicaltrials.gov or call one of the following locations for more information at:
Vancouver – UBC Mood Disorders Centre - 604-822-7512 or
Dr. D. McIntosh & Dr. K. Kjernisted Clinical Research Inc.– 888-922-2732 or 604-707-2273
Kelowna – Okanagan Clinical Trials – 250-862-8141 or www.okanaganclinicaltrials.com
Penticton – Dr. Alexander McIntyre, Inc. – 250-492-0053

Seeking Participants for Study on Antipsychotics and Schizophrenia [back to top]
A new study conducted by Dr. Soma Ganesan is calling for participants who have taken Seroquel, Risperidone, or Olanzapine to take part in an investigation of antipsychotics in schizophrenia and schizophrenia-like psychoses. The study aims at identifying biomarkers that influence disease, symptom severity, and outcome in this population. Participants will receive a London Drugs Gift Card as a thank you for their time. For more information or to arrange a meeting, call Boris Feldman at 604-875-5823.

Call for Research Internship Proposals On Mental Health and Addictions [back to top]
The BC Mental Health and Addictions Research Network together with ACCELERATE BC are seeking proposals for four-month research internships in the field of mental health and/or addictions. Eligible interns must be graduates of postdoctoral fellows at postsecondary institution in BC. Approved internships would take place anytime between April 1 and September 12, 2009 and are worth up to $15,000 each. To read more, visit www.mhanet.ca or contact Dr. Jane Hood at jhood@phsa.ca. Application requirements can be found at www.acceleratecanada.ca

Volunteers Needed for Research on Bipolar Depression [back to top]
UBC Department of Psychiatry is looking for people who have or have had bipolar depression to help with a study on thinking processes and memory. Volunteers must be between 19 – 56 years of age with no other serious conditions. The study will require two clinic visits lasting about 1 to 4 hours per visit. If you are interested in volunteering, please call Sean at 604-827-3352.

PUBLIC EDUCATION EVENTS

Lecture Series on Bullying and its Effect on Mental Health - November 13, 20, 27
[back to top]
Part of SFU's Continuing Health Education lecture series, these free public events will focus on the various faces of bullying, including its role in the workplace, classroom, and in the community. They will explore how and why bullying occurs, and well as potential solutions.
November 13 - Bullying in the Workplace: speaker Neil Boyd
November 20 - Bullying in the Classroom: speaker Dr. Shelley Hymel
November 27 - Bullying in the Community: speaker Cpl. Rose Adrain
All the presentations will take place at SFU Surrey at Central City, 250 13450-102 Ave in Lecture Theatre 2600, from 6:30-8:30pm. To register online, visit www.sfu.ca/healthed or email healthed@sfu.ca or call 778-782-7451

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
November 10 - Poor Boy's Game
November 17 - The Dogwalker
November 24 - Cracked Not Broken

Classes Aim to Educate and Promote General Mental Health and Well-Being [back to top]
Comox Valley Mental Health & Addiction is offering a Mental Health and Wellness Evening Education Series to people who want to learn about common mental health issues. The group classes will focus on skill buildings in order to supply participants with tools to promote their own mental and emotional health. They will take place at the Comox Valley Mental Health & Addiction office, 941 C England Ave., Courtenay from 6:30-8pm. To register for any class, call 250-338-9777.
November 12 – Beyond the Blues: Depression
November 19 – Anxiety
November 26 - How Thinking Styles affect Mental Health
December 3 - Introduction to Mindfulness
December 10 - Importance of Social Connections
December 17 - Stress Reduction & Relaxation: A Practical Session

Fighting Their Fears: Child and Youth Anxiety [back to top]
While it is normal to sometimes feel anxious, many children and adolescents live with anxiety that is far more than simply an uncomfortable feeling: it can be a crippling experience that gets in the way of friends and school. In BC, anxiety disorders affect more children and youth today than any other mental disorder. This documentary will look at causes and symptoms of anxiety in children and youth, from separation anxiety to obsessive compulsive disorder, as well as discussing treatments and the importance of early identification and intervention. It will air on the Knowledge Network at 11 pm. For more information, visit tvschedule.knowledgenetwork.ca

Presentations on Housing Issues - November 18 [back to top]
The BC Schizophrenia Society presents a talk on housing. Abbie Hall of the Kits Mental Health Team will assess consumers’ eligibility for housing, and Janet Smith, housing manager, will speak about housing programs managed by The Kettle Society. It will be held at the Coast Foundation, 293 E 11 Ave (off Kingsway) at 7pm. For more information, visit www.bcss.org or call 604-270-7841

Psychiatric Concerns in Pregnancy and Postpartum Education Evening - November 20
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The Mood Disorders Association of BC is hosting an education evening around the topic of pregnancy and postpartum depression. Over 15% of pregnant women are affected by depression, symptoms of which include anxiety, insomnia and distancing herself from family and friends. If left untreated, this creates the strongest risk factor for depression after pregnancy. Dr. Deirdre Ryan, a psychiatrist at the BC Women’s Hospital, will discuss this issue and answer questions from the audience. The evening will be held at Sunrise Hall on 1950 Windermere St. at 7pm. For more information, call 604-873-0103 or email info@mdabc.net. For questions or concerns you would like Dr. Ryan to address, please email Vicki Rogers at training@mdabc.net

Craft Sale and Silent Auction to Benefit People with Mental Illness - November 20
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Vancouver Coastal Health’s Art Studio is holding a winter sale and silent auction in support of people in the creative arts with mental health diagnoses. There will be pottery, sculpture, jewellery, paintings, prints, cards and crafts for sale, as well as a 50/50 draw. Admission is by donation (suggested $2). It will take place at Heritage Hall on 3102 Main Street (at 15 Ave) from 2-8pm. For more information, call 604-871-9788.

Stand Up For Mental Health 2008 Graduation Comedy Showcase - November 23
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This is a stand up comedy performed by the Stand up for Mental Health class. The show aims to reduce the stigma that surrounds mental illness and will discuss treatment options. It will be held at the Arts Club Theatre Granville Island Stage, starting at 7pm. Doors open at 6pm. Tickets are $25. To avoid disappointment purchase your tickets early. For more information visit www.standupformentalhealth.com To purchase tickets call 604-629-8849 or visit www.vancouvertix.com

Now Who’s Crazy Now? Performance - November 30 [back to top]
Now Who’s Crazy Now is a one-woman play describing the protagonist’s experience living with mental illness. The play is meant to be educational and entertaining, with a message of hope and recovery for everyone. It will be held at the Norman Rothstein Centre on 950 41st West Avenue (at Oak) at 7pm. General admission tickets are $20 and $12 for seniors and students. For more information contact Debbie Havusha, Special Needs Coordinator, at 604-257-5151.

COURSES AND WORKSHOPS

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

Free Registered Disability Savings Plan Tele-Workshops [back to top]
Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network is conducting free tele-learning seminars on the Registered Disability Saving Program (RDSP), a new long-term savings program for people with disabilites and their families. Register by phone at 604-439-9566 or by email at inquiries@plan.ca.
November 19 – 5 – 6pm
November 27 – 12 – 1pm
December 8 – 4 – 5pm
December 17 – 12 – 1pm

Facilitation Skills for Youth Workers 4-Day Workshop Series - November 14-15 + 21-22
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These workshops are hosted by PeerNetBC, and offer experienced youth facilitators to brush up on skills such as facilitation and youth engagement, as well as learn new ones on collaboration with their peers. Fees are $400 and $350 for PeerNetBC members. A Vancouver location is to be determined. For more information and registration, call 604-733-6186 or visit www.peernetbc.com.

Maternal Depression and Infant-Mother Dyadic Functioning Videoconference - November 20 [back to top]
Dr. Pratibha Reebye, Director of the Infant Psychiatry Clinic at the BC Children's Hospital will discuss the impact of maternal depression on mothers' parenting capacity, infant's socioemotional and cogniive development, and bonding difficulties. Tools that community clinicians can use in diagnosing caregiver depression will also be discussed. Presented by the Reproductive Mental Health Program at BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority. 12-1pm at the Chan Centre for Family Health Education. Video conferencing available in Victoria, Kelowna, Prince George, Nanaimo, Terrace, Quesnel, Cranbrook, Dawson Creek and Richmond Hospital. Teleconferencing is aviailable to those communities that do not have a video connection. For details contact Doris Bodnar at 604-875-2424 ext 6469 dbodnar@cw.bc.ca.

Bullies: Their Making and Unmaking in Duncan - November 27 & 28 [back to top]
In this two-day presentation, Dr. Gordon Neufeld will examine the bully syndrome to reveal its psychological determinants and deep instinctive roots in the dynamics of attachment and vulnerability. He will provide basic guidelines for addressing the bully problem that can be employed across settings, as well as outline the steps required for lasting change in order to keep students safe.Cost: $325 earlybird, $345 regular. Earlybird cut-off date is November 13. For more information call 604-926-0296 or visit www.jackhirose.com

Youth Engagement in Community Organizations Workshop - November 28 [back to top]
Hosted by PeerNetBC, this interactive training workshop is for adults who want to engage the youth they work with more effectively, as well as establish and strengthen peer support in youth communities. Topics include the importance of youth voice, peer support, and a look at other successful organizations in the field. It will be held at a location in Vancouver yet to be determined, from 9am-12pm, and the fee is $50. For more information and registration, call 604-733-6186 or visit www.peernetbc.com

The Explosive Child: The Collaborative Problem-Solving Approach - December 5
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In this workshop, Dr. Ross Greene provides an overview of a model of treatment called Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS), first articulated in his acclaimed book, The Explosive Child. The CPS model helps adults teach these lacking cognitive skills while reducing the frequency and intensity of explosive/noncompliant episodes. Dr. Greene will present research documenting the effectiveness of the CPS model in outpatient and inpatient populations and in juvenile detention facilities. Cost: $190 earlybird, $210 regular. Earlybird cut-off date is November 21. For more information call 604-926-0296 or visit www.jackhirose.com
>> Interested in treatments for children and youth? You might be interested in reading issue of Visions magazine on Treatments for Young People www.heretohelp.bc.ca

CONFERENCES

Working Matters Conference on Supported Employment - November 12-14 [back to top]
Hosted by the Canadian Association for Supported Employment, this two day conference is an opportunity for organizations to showcase themselves in promoting workplace inclusion for Canadians with disabilities through supported employment in hopes of removing barriers these people may face in the workplace. It will feature large group plenary sessions, smaller group working sessions, networking opportunities, as well as exhibits and entertainment. Participants include people with disabilities, family members and advocates, professionals and consultants and public service, caregivers and community leaders. It will be held at The Westin Bayshore Hotel on 1601 Bayshore Driv, Vancouver. Registration fees are $365 for members, $390 for non-members, and $175 for self advocates. Download the exhibit registration form at
supportedemployment.ca or call 604-984-6447 or email carolina@seatoskymeetings.com for information.

National Association for the Dually Diagnosed Conference in Ontario - November 12-14 [back to top]
The theme of this year’s conference is A Quarter Century of Awareness: Assessment, Treatment & Policy Advances (for people with intellectual disabilities combined with mental illness). It will focus on areas of improvement in the physical and mental health of people with intellectual disabilities. There will also be several information sessions presented by experts in the field as well as keynote lectures on the past, present and future of the NASS Association and the topic of trauma in people with intellectual disabilities. It will be held at the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel and & Conference Centre in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Early bird registration is November 11, followed by regular registration November 12. For more information and to register, visit www.thenadd.org or email info@thenadd.org or call 845-331-4336 (1-800-331-5362 toll free).

Western Canadian Conference on Addictions & Mental Health - November 12, 13 & 14
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The Western Canadian Conference on Addictions and Mental Health is a three-day gathering of addiction and mental health professionals exploring practical tools and techniques they can use now to help their clients and themselves. This year the Conference will feature a youth-focused concurrent session each afternoon. It will take place at the Best Western Richmond Inn Hotel & Conference Centre, 7551 Westminster Highway, Richmond.One-day cost: $235; two-day cost: $395; three-day cost: $515. For more information call 604-718-6929 or visit www.jackhirose.com

Mental Health Research Showcase, Alberta - November 19-21 [back to top]
This showcase will focus on the important role of research in advancing mental health. Bringing together mental health experts from around the world, it aims to promote applied mental health research, bridge gaps among different research, as well as encourage the use of findings as a way to improve mental health services. It is designed to benefit various audiences, including service providers, researchers and academics, policy makers, community and funding agency representatives, consumers, the business community and anyone else with an interest in the topic. It will be held at the Rimrock Resort Hotel in Banff, Alberta. Registration fees are $695 regular, and $275 for students and consumers. Single day rates are also available. For more information, visit www.buksa.com or call 780-436-0983 ext 229 (1-866-436-0983 ext 229 toll-free) or email showcase@buksa.com.

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

DISCLAIMER

This newsletter contains information collected from a wide variety of sources, individuals and organizations which we consider reliable. However the content of the news delivered as well as referred to does not necessarily represent the official view of CMHA, BC Division. Under no circumstances shall CMHA, its employees, directors, volunteers, or the authors of information provided in this newsletter, be liable for damages, losses, demands, or claims.

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

The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), BC Division is a provincial non-profit charitable organization which has, for the past 50 years in BC, been concerned with promoting the mental health of all British Columbians and changing the way we view and treat mental illness in BC. We are part of a national association with over 80 years of experience in Canada. CMHA staff and volunteers focus on four major responsibilities: policy, public education, community-based research, and mental health service and support resources. We are located at: 1200-1111 Melville St., Vancouver BC, V6E 3V6 Phone: 604-688-3234 or 1-800-555-8222 (free within BC); Fax: 604-688-3236.

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