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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:

Beyond the Blues
Mental Illness Awareness Week
CMHA BC Supports Federal Housing Bill C-304
Lorne Fraser Education Fund Recipients
Issues and Solutions: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace in North Vancouver, Vancouver, Richmond and Kelowna
2009 Bottom Line Conference Final Report Now Online
Online Resource Working Through It Shares Inspirational Stories
CMHA Delta Branch Selling Collector Car
CMHA Delta Branch Annual General Meeting
CMHA Delta Fundraiser Dinner with the Honourable Kevin Falcon
Mental Illness First Aid in Courtenay

FEATURED PROGRAM:

Mental Health Voices and CMHA BC Awards

CANADIAN RESEARCH:

Study Links Depression to Increased Cancer Mortality Rates
Report Examines Substance Use Among First Episode Psychosis Clients

RESEARCH FROM AROUND THE WORLD:

Study Suggests Mental Illness Rates Underreported
Brain Waves May Help Predict Effectiveness of Medication
Longitudal Study Finds Link Between Obesity, Alcohol Abuse and Depression in Young Women
Smoking Linked With Increased Risk of Suicide/Self-mutilation in Adolescent Girls
Researchers Able to Predict 80% of Postnatal Depression Cases

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Jessie's Hope Becomes a Program of Family Services of the North Shore
Mental Health Commission To Establish Consumer/Peer Research Network
Dual Diagnosis International Congress Call for Submissions

NEW PROGRAMS AND RESOURCES:

PUBLIC EDUCATIONS EVENTS:

Movie Monday in Victoria
Stand Up for Mental Health Comes to BC Campuses
Mental Illness Awareness Week: Recovery is Possible
Psychiatric Art: what words cannot say 2nd Annual Art Show in Penticton
Mental Illness Awareness at SFU
Not Just a Bad Day – Living with Bipolar Disorder
Carts of Darkness: A Free Mental Health Public Film Screening
Changing the Stigma of Mental Illness
FACES of Support Showcase/Open House in Penticton
Kelowna Mental Health Center Open House
"Building Pathways for Hope" Fundraiser Dinner
Depression and Older Adults
Homelessness and Mental Illness
Concurrent Disorders Forum in Kelowna
Mental Health Film Festival
Walk the World for HOPE in Downtown Penticton
Gratitude Week Mental Health Awareness Forums
Education Night on Concurrent Disorders: Mental Illness and Substance Abuse
Psychologically Healthy Workplace Awards Gala
Women's Moods: PMS and Beyond
Community Based Research Event Night
Understanding Eating Disorders and Your Child
Frames of Mind: Young Freud in Gaza
Forensic Psychiatric Hospital & Riverview Hospital Libraries Open House
"Funny…You Don't Look Crazy" at the Genesis Theatre in Delta
Stress, Depression and Eating Disorders
Kelty Resource Centre Open House
CMHA Delta Fundraiser Dinner with the Honourable Kevin Falcon

COURSES AND WORKSHOPS:

Critical Incident Stress Management Certificate Program
Issues and Solutions: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace in North Vancouver
Issues and Solutions: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace in Vancouver
Creating Healthy, High-Performing Organizations in Challenging Economic Times
Issues and Solutions: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace in Richmond
The Provisioning of Family Therapy: Race, Culture, and Gender in Clinical Practice
Issues and Solutions: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace in Kelowna
Mental Illness First Aid in Courtenay

CONFERENCES:

CMHA NEWS

Beyond the Blues – October 8 [back to top]
Have you stopped feeling like yourself lately? Or maybe you're worried about someone you care about? Maybe you feel sad, empty and hopeless; anxious, panicked or stressed? You may have clinical depression or an anxiety disorder—real conditions that touch at least one in every 5 people. The good news is they are treatable. There is help and hope. Beyond the Blues: Depression Anxiety Education and Screening day is an opportunity to learn more about these treatable conditions, complete a brief questionnaire, speak one-on-one with a clinician, and find out about the range of community resources available to help at approximately 65 different sites across BC. Many sites also feature workshops, videos, multilingual information and screenings, and risky drinking checkups. To find out more a site near you, or to access resources in the meantime, visit heretohelp.bc.ca.
CMHA branch-led Beyond the Blues events are listed below. For a full listing of event sites around BC, visit at www.heretohelp.bc.ca/events.
Lower Mainland
Vancouver Island
Okanagan and Kootenays
Cariboo and Northern BC

CMHA sites in the Lower Mainland

Delta - October 6
(education only)
CMHA Delta Branch - #14 - 1835 56th Street
10am-3pm
604-943-1878

North Vancouver - October 7
(education only)
John Braithwaite Community Centre - 145 West 1st Street, 2nd Floor
6:45-8:30pm
604-987-6959

Richmond - October 8
(education only)
Richmond Cultural Centre - Lecture Hall, 1st Floor, 7000 Westminster Hwy
1-8pm
604-276-8834 ext.34 or ext.29

Vancouver
(depression and anxiety screenings available in Mandarin and Cantonese)
CMHA Vancouver-Burnaby branch - 175 West Broadway - October 8
5-9pm
604-872-4902 ext 235
(education only, in Mandarin and Cantonese) - October 10
Raven Song Community Health Centre - 2450 Ontario St.
9:30am-3:30pm
604-872-4902 ext 235
(depression and anxiety screenings only)
Collingwood Neighbourhood House - 5288 Joyce St - October 8
Time TBA
604-872-4902
Little Mountain Neighbourhood House - 3981 Main Steet - October 8
Time TBA
604-872-4902

West Vancouver - October 5
(education only)
West Vancouver Community Centre - 2121 Marine Drive, Art Studio - 2nd Floor
6:30-8:30 pm
604-987-6959 ext. 223

CMHA sites on Vancouver Island

Nanaimo - Date TBA
(screenings available in English, Punjabi and Chinese)
Vancouver Island University - Building TBA, 5th St.
10am-3pm
250-244-4035

CMHA sites in the Okanagan and Kootenays

Enderby - October 5
Enderby & District Resource Centre Basemant - 1106 Belvedere St.
10am-1pm
250-832 -8477

Revelstoke - October 9
Revelstoke Community Centre - 600 Campbell Ave.
10am-2pm
250-832 -8477

Salmon Arm - October 8
Okanagan College Salmon Arm - 2552 Trans Canada Hwy
10am-4pm
250-832 -8477

Sicamous - October 6
Parkland Centre Mall - Sicamous Health Unit - 1133 Highway 97A
1:30-3:30 pm
250-832 -8477

Vernon

CMHA sites in the Cariboo and Northern BC

100 Mile House - October 8
(education + risky drinking screens only; open only to high school students)
Peter Skene Ogden Secondary School
11am-2:30pm
250-395-4883

Kamloops* - October 8
(for postpartum mothers)
Interior Community Services - 396 Tranquille Rd.
11:30am-2:30pm
250-374-0440
(for seniors)
Seniors Outreach Society - 540 Seymour Street (inside Desert Gardens)
12-3pm
250-374-0440
(for the campus community)
Thompson Rivers University - Old Main 900 McGill Rd.
Time TBA
250-374-0440
*all CMHA Kamlopps sites are also open to the general public

Williams Lake - October 8
Thompson Rivers University - 1250 Western (across from the baseball field)
10:30am-2:30pm
250-398-8220

Mental Illness Awareness Week - October 4-10 [back to top]
CMHA National is proud to be a founding member of Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW), a public education campaign spearheaded by the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH), with the support of thousands of mental health-care organizations and volunteers. A goal of MIAW is to ensure future generations are not impeded by the stigma currently surrounding mental illness. MIAW also aims to promote discussion and informed decision-making about mental health issues. Nearly one in five Canadians is affected by mental illness, yet a persistent stigma prevents millions from getting the help they need. This year's Mental Illness Awareness Week focused on spending the anti-stigma message that "Recovery is Possible." CMHA BC branches are celebrating with a wide-variety of lectures, events and information nights. For more information about how you can participate in MIAW visit www.miaw.ca For a listing of events in BC during Mental Illness Awareness Week, check out the Public Education Events Section.

CMHA BC Supports Federal Housing Bill C-304 [back to top]
CMHA BC has announced our support for Federal Housing Bill C-304. The vote for this new bill for a National Housing Strategy is likely taking place Wednesday, September 30. Federal MP Libby Davies, from Vancouver East, has tabled Bill C-304, an "Act to ensure secure, adequate, accessible and affordable housing for Canadians." Bill C-304, the Secure, Adequate, Accessible and Affordable Housing Act, calls for a national housing strategy to coordinate work across all levels of government. CMHA believes the bill would provide a framework to address homelessness, non-profit housing solutions, and address the housing needs of people with disabilities including mental illness. Contact your local MP and party leaders today to show your support!

Lorne Fraser Education Fund Recipients [back to top]
Each year the Lorne Fraser Education Fund provides bursaries to help people with mental illness achieve their educational goals. The awards were presented at the CMHA BC Division Annual General Meeting on September 25 to eight recipients:
Jennifer Adachi - Vancouver - Jennifer will be upgrading her media and web development skills by taking the webpage design courses at Vancouver Community College.
Glenn Cunningham - Richmond - Glenn would like to become a freelance writer and will be taking the creative writing course at UBC.
Neil R. Kilburn - Vancouver - Neil is interested in becoming a Journeyman Electrician by enrolling in the Electrical Trades Program, Levels 2 & 3 at BCIT.
Wendelin Mishkin - Victoria - Wendy wants to do research and consulting in mental health program development and obtain a Master’s Degree in Rural Development at the University of Guelph.
Gino Shifrin - Victoria - Gino has decided to become an archaeologist and will be pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Anthropology at UVic.
Allan Wilkin - Vancouver - Alan has an interest in attending the ELTT, Electrical Foundation Course at BCIT to become a Certified Electrician.
Richard Willerton - Nelson - Richard has been accepted to the professional cooking training course at Selkirk College with the goal of becoming a head chef.
Michelle Williams - Nanaimo - Michelle has chosen the early childhood education and care course at Vancouver Island University.

2009 Bottom Line Conference Final Report Now Online [back to top]
Thank you to everyone who supported and participated in the 2009 conference. This year's event was marked with touching stories personal stories and triumph and advocacy, inspiring and practical information to help improve workplaces, and thoughtful, candid discussions on challenges and solutions. We are pleased to present our Final Report, summarizing this year's events and successes.

Online Resource Working Through It Shares Inspirational Stories [back to top]
Working Through It is a recently launched, free online resource that shares stories of people reclaiming well-being at work, off work, and in their return to work. Working Through It speaks to those struggling with issues of work and life, and is presented through a joint partnership between the Mood Disorders Association of Ontario and CMHA's Mental Health Works. Working Through It is possible thanks to funding from Great West Life. To visit Working Through It, go to www.gwlcentreformentalhealth.com.

Issues and Solutions: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace in North Vancouver, Vancouver, Richmond and Kelowna [back to top]
CMHA BC's Mental Health Works workshop, Issues and Solutions: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace, is being offered at several locations across the province in upcoming months. This workshop is designed for emplyoers, business owners and managers, and provides them with strategies and resources for identifying and addressing mental health issues in the workplace:
October 8 - North Vancouver
October 15 - Vancouver
October 27 - Richmond
November 3 - Kelowna

CMHA Delta Branch Selling Collector Car [back to top]
CMHA Delta Branch is selling a 1974 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible as a fundraiser. The car is green with white leather and a white top. Delta branch is looking for a quick-sale on this collector's item. For more information, call CMHA Delta branch at 943-1878.

CMHA Delta Branch Annual General Meeting – October 5 [back to top]
CMHA Delta Branch is hosting their Annual General Meeting, with socializing from 6:30 pm and a prompt 7pm start. The meeting will be short and attendance is very important for the on-going services of CMHA Delta. The meeting will be held at the Delta Branch office, #14-1835 56th St., Delta. For more information, contact Delta Branch at 604-943-1878.

CMHA Delta Fundraiser Dinner with the Honourable Kevin Falcon – October 30 [back to top]
CMHA Delta Branch is hosting a fundraiser dinner with the Honourable Kevin Falcon, Minister of Health Services, Government of British Columbia. This fund-raising dinner and silent auction will be held at the River Rock Casino ballroom, starting with cocktails at 6:00 pm, followed by dinner at 7pm. Tickets $100 per person (a $50.00 tax receipt will be issued) 604-943-1878.

Mental Illness First Aid in Courtenay – November 8-9 [back to top]
CMHA Mid-Island Branch is offering a Mental Illness First Aid course. The course will teach the three Rs: Recognize the signs and symptoms; Respond appropriately to the individual requiring treatment; and Refer the person to a variety of agencies and supports in the community. The course is open to the general public and organizations. It runs from 9-5 pm both days. Light refreshments are included but participants should bring their own lunch. Cost is $150 for not-for-profit employees and $225 for public and business sector employees. Group rates are available for groups of 10-25 employees. For more information, visit www.courtenay.cmha.bc.ca, or call 250-337-8233.

Featured Program

2009 Mental Health Voices and CMHA Award Winners  [back to top]

Mental Health Voices
The Mental Health Voices award is a provincial award presented annually to a person who is a champion for mental health. The winner of the 2009 Mental Health Voices award is Rafe Mair. His story and award presentation was captured on video, which will be used by CMHA branches at local Mental Health Voices fundraising events during Mental Illness Awareness Week. The video was created thanks to funding from Pacific Blue Cross.
Photo: Bev Gutray, Executive Director, CMHA BC Division with Rafe Mair, winner of the 2009 Mental Health Voices Award. 

Rafe Mair was born in 1931 in Vancouver, BC. After practising law in Vancouver and Kamloops, he was elected in 1975 to BC's provincial legislative assembly as a member of the Social Credit Party. Throughout his tenure in the legislature, Mair served in Premier Bill Bennett's cabinet; his portfolios included consumer and corporate affairs, the environment, and health. In 1981, Mair left government for a job as a talk-radio host for the Vancouver station CJOR. Three years later he began broadcasting for the rival station CKNW; until 2003, he hosted a morning talk show there with the largest radio audience in Vancouver. Until 2005, Rafe was the morning talent on CKBD, 600AM. Currently, Rafe has a show on JOY-TV, Channel 10 called The Search, has just published 8 books and is in the Canadian Association of Broadcasters' Hall of Fame. This past June, Mair received an honorary LLD from Simon Fraser University.

"I support the Canadian Mental Health Association for a couple of reasons. First of all, as a consumer I've been treated for depression for over 20 years and know what it's like to need and receive understanding and care. I'm in a position where I can show the way to the help that is available to so many who for various reasons don't get it. Secondly, one of the great shames in our society is the way we treat mental health – I shudder to think what would happen if physically sick people were treated the same - and the CMHA does great service in trying to rectify this wrong."
- Rafe Mair

CMHA BC Awards
Leadership Award - Dr. Rivian Weinerman
Dr. Weinerman was instrumental in the development and of the Practice Support Program’s Mental Health module. The mental health training program for physicians assists them to screen patients with a wide range of mental health conditions. It also provides skills training and resources for treating patients with mild to moderate depression.

Outstanding Community Volunteer Award - Keli Anderson, Ginny Dennehy & Shainul Kassam
These three courageous women, from a position of pain and loss, moved the system to a better place for children, youth and families. They shared their inspirational stories, as well as strategies for balancing caregiving, mental health and the workplace, at the 2009 Bottom Line Conference.
photo: Shainul Kassam (left) with Keli Anderson

Professional Services Award - Cliff Cross
Cliff’s philosophy matches CMHA’s Framework for Support—that a person is in the centre and we need to work as a team to provide a range of services and supports. Cliff has assisted and promoted the development of CMHA branches in the Interior Health Authority Region. With his support, the Salmon Arm Branch was able to expand and service Revelstoke and now the entire Shuswap.
photo: CMHA BC Executive Director Bev Gutray with Cliff Cross

Professional Services Award - Constable Lara Davidsen
Lara has a passion and commitment to ensuring first responders have the crisis intervention skills necessary to interact safely and compassionately with persons with mental illness. She has been a strong and dedicated advocate for promoting best practices and provincial standards in the area of crisis intervention training and community collaboration for first responders.

Study Links Depression to Increased Cancer Mortality Rates  [back to top]
A recent study has found that depression is linked to a slightly higher risk of death in people with cancer. In a review of 26 previous studies, researchers found people with depression had an increased risk of up to 39%. However, researchers added the risk is still small, so patients shouldn't feel it's necessary to maintain a positive demeanor to beat their disease.Nevertheless, the study indicates that it is important for physicians to regularly screen cancer patients for depression and to provide appropriate treatments. For more information, see the news release "Depression Increases Cancer Mortality Rate" at ubc.ca

Report Examines Substance Use Among First Episode Psychosis Clients  [back to top]
eHealth Ontario recently released a report examining substance use among people experiencing their first psychotic episode. The report looked at illicit drugs, alcohol and tobacco. The report found substance use was a significant problem, with about half of the clients using illicit drugs in the previous 6 months, with one quarter having used multiple drugs. Also, they found 70% of first-episode psychosis clients smoked tobacco, compared to 20% of the general population. The authors suggested that incorporating programs that promote intervention and assistance in stopping substance use should be part of psychiatric care. To read "Early Intervention Program Substance Use Report," visit ehealthontario.ca
>>Visions has topic-specific issues on tobacco, alcohol and cannabis, as well as their relation to mental health. To read more about these substances, check out Visions on heretohelp.bc.ca.

Study Suggests Reforms Are Needed to Improve Access to Education [back to top]
A recent study suggests reforms are needed to social assistance and student financial aid to decrease barriers to higher education, especially for disadvantaged learners. The report examined the complex social assistance programs across Canada, and their conflicts with rules within the student aid sytstem. Researchers examined where these systems met using two scenarios: students who have not previously used the welfare system who took out a student loan then applied for income assistance, and previous recipients of social assistance who wanted to pursue post-secondary education. The authors made nine recommendations on reforms that would improve access to education, including better coordination between systems, improved information, and wrap-around-approaches. For more information, see "Student Aid Meets Social Assistance," from www.caledoninst.org.

RESEARCH FROM AROUND THE WORLD

Study Suggests Mental Illness Rates Underreported  [back to top]
Recent findings from a large, longitudinal study suggest mental health problems may be far more common than we think, and largely underreported. The findings come from a long-term tracking study of more than 1000 New Zealanders from birth to age 32. Researchers found people significantly underreport instances of mental illness when asked to report their history years later. Surveys have reported incidences of depression in people age 18-31 are 18%. However, this study placed incidences at of clinically significant depression at 41%. The rate of alcohol dependence in the same age group was placed at nearly 32%, compared to 6-17% in previous surveys. For more information, see "Common Mental Disorders May Be More Common Than We Think" from Duke University.

Brain Waves May Help Predict Effectiveness of Medication [back to top]
A new study suggests that clinicians will be able to use brain wave measurements to predict if a medication will be effective for a patient with depression within a week. The study used a non-invasive test to determine biomarkers, measurements to specific activity in brainwaves. Because these brainwave changes precede changes in mood, this test would allow physicians to switch their patients to a more effective medicine much earlier. For more information, see "Antidepressant response trajectories and quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) biomarkers in major depressive disorder" in the Journal of Psychiatric Research.

Longitudal Study Finds Link Between Obesity, Alcohol Abuse and Depression in Young Women [back to top]
A recent study offers new data that suggests alcohol abuse, obesity and depression are interrelated conditions among young women, but not young men. The study followed 776 young adults, measuring them for each of these conditions at ages 24, 27 and 30. While it was a small proportion of people who had all three at once, researchers noticed a great deal of overlap between these conditions in women. Women who abused alcohol at 24 were three times more likely to be obese at 27; and women who were obese at 27 were more than twice as likely to experience depression at 30. Researchers say they didn't find a step-by-step progression from one disorder to another, but suggest clinicians treating women for one of these conditions should be aware of the possibility they may develop another. For more information see "Longitudinal associations among depression, obesity and alcohol use disorders in young adulthood" in the journal of General Hospital Psychiatry.

Smoking Linked With Increased Risk of Suicide/Self-mutilation in Adolescent Girls [back to top]
A recent study has linked nicotine dependence with an increased risk of self mutilation and suicide in adolescent girls. No such risk was found in boys. The study looked at 500 adolescents (300 girls) who had received inpatient psychiatric treatment at the Oulu University Hospital in Finland. They found girls who had high levels nicotine dependence were four times as likely to have attempted suicide than those who did not smoke, and almost five times more likely to have self-mutilated. Girls with lower levels of nicotine dependence were still at an elevated risk. For more information, read "Nicotine dependence is associated with suicide attempts and self-mutilation among adolescent females" in the journal of Comprehensive Psychiatry.

Researchers Able to Predict 80% of Postnatal Depression Cases [back to top]
Spanish researchers have developed a model to predict 80% of postnatal depression cases. This is the best results to date for predicting this form of depression. The researchers used risk factors highlighted in previous studies, such as neuroticism and prior psychiatric problems in the family, combined with artificial neuronal networks to predict whether or not a mother would develop postnatal depression. The researchers also found that older women, and women who work during their pregnancy have a reduced risk. To read the news release in English, go to "New method can predict 80% of cases of postnatal depression" at www.alphagalileo.org.
>>Around one in seven women may experience postpartum depression. To learn more, read the Postpartum Depression factsheet on heretohelp.bc.ca.

NEW PROGRAMS AND RESOURCES

FORCE Society Support Groups for Parents [back to top]
The FORCE Society for Kids' Mental Health will be hosting a monthly networking and support group for parents whose children and youth live with mental health issues. Support groups are held in Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Langley, Nanaimo, Pentiction, Salmon Arm, Squamish, Sunshine Coast, Surrey, Tri-Cities, Vancouver and Victoria. Most groups run from 6:30-8:30. Childcare is provided upon request. For more information on the group in your specific location, or for local contact information, visit www.bckidsmentalhealth.org.
>>When parents think their child may be having a mental health issue, it's hard to know what to do and what to expect. Find resources specially for parents of young children on heretohelp.bc.ca.

Rainbows Program for Children Experiencing Grief [back to top]
Rainbows is a weekly support program for children affected by grief or enduring a significant loss through death, divorce or other significant transition. This free group takes place from 6:30-7:30 at the MFRC Jericho Programming site on CF base at W 4th and Highbury, Vancouver. It is run by Mainland BC MFRC, a non-profit organization that supports regular force members, reservist, ex-military personnel, legion members and their extended families within Mainland BC. To register, or for more information, call 604-225-2520 Ext. 2518 or e-mail rainbows@mainlandbcmfrc.com.

Harm Reduction for Families Support Group - October 7 - November 18 [back to top]
This mutual support group is for parents of adult addicted children. It will focus on recevory and survival for families affected by mental health and addictions. Topics include impact on families, coping and communication, let's get practical, perpective, and transitions. The group meets Wednseday evenings from 6:30-9:30pm. This is a closed group - participants must be able to attend all six sessions - held in partnership between Parents Forever. For more information, or to register, call the Centre for Concurrent Disorders at 604-255-9843.

MindYourMind Launches New Website For Professionals [back to top]
MindYourMind, a non-profit youth mental health engagement project, has launched a new site aimed at professionals. MindYourMindPro's goal is to "help you help youth," and has a variety of tools and resources for professionals who work with youth, including social media tools. Professionals can register for free with the new site at www.mindyourmindpro.ca.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Jessie's Hope Becomes a Program of Family Services of the North Shore [back to top]
In July, the members of Jessie's Hope Society, a non-profit society devoted to promoting healthy body image and eating disorder prevention and advocacy, voted to dissolve and donate their assets and mandate to Family Services of the North Shore. Jessie's Hope will continue to develop evidence-based resiliency programs focusing on children and youth mental health, body image and eating disorder prevention as a program of Family Services. For more information, contact Cindy Neufeglise-Ross of Jessie's Hope Society at 604-983-9886 or Mimi Hudson of Family Services of the North Shore mhudson@familyservices.bc.ca or 604-988-5281.

Mental Health Commission To Establish Consumer/Peer Research Network [back to top]
The Mental Health Commission of Canada plans to establish a consumer/peer research network to engage persons with lived experience in mental health and susbtance use research. The commission also hopes to expand the capacity of consumer/peer research in Canada. A summary of network models and key stakeholders is currently being completed, and interviews will be conducted within three specific groups - individuals with lived experience who want to do research, researchers with lived experience, and non-consumer researchers who have an interest in the area of mental health. The commission will hold a visioning meeting at their national conference "Into the Light: Transforming Mental Health in Canada" in Vancouver. The network is scheduled for launch in March 2010. For more information, see "Consumer/Peer Research Network Development (CPRND) Project" at www.mentalhealthcommission.ca.

Dual Diagnosis International Congress Call for Submissions – Deadline October 6 [back to top]
The 2010 Dual Diagnosis Conference, which is being held in Toronto from April 14-16, is calling for proposals. The conference is presented by NADD, an association for people with developmental disabilities and mental health needs. There are three categories: a 90-minute presentation or 3-hour skill-building workshop; a 30-minute presentation as part of a 90-minute symposium; or a 4x4 poster for the poster session. Proposals should have educational objectives. Skill-building workshops that address the promotion of mental wellness are encouraged. For more information, or to submit a proposal, visit www.thenadd.org.

PUBLIC EDUCATION EVENTS

Movie Monday 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
October 5 – The Soloist
October 12 – The Story of Anvil
October 19 – Keeper of the Flame
October 26 - The Necessities of Life
November 10 (Tuesday) - You, Me, and the SPP: Trading Democracy for Corporate Rule

Stand Up for Mental Health Comes to BC Campuses [back to top]
Stand Up For Mental Health (SMH) is proud to bring SMH Days to BC Campuses during Mental Illness Awareness Week. SMH will perform at lunchtime on all campuses for students, faculty and staff. UVIC is also inviting local high school students to attend. We will give open Community performances in the Evening at several campuses on those SMH Days. SMH is passionate about facilitating an open, frank, compassionate, inclusive and lively discussion about mental illness on campus. For further information please contact Pat Bayes at 604-707-0483 or pat@standupformentalhealth.com, or visit www.standupformentalhealth.com.
October 5 – University of BC
October 6 – University of the Fraser Valley, Chilliwack campus
October 7 – University of the Fraser Valley, Abbotsford campus
October 21 – University of Victoria
October 22 – Camosun College
>>Campus environments have their own specific mental health concerns. To learn more about mental health and susbtance use on campuses, check out the Campuses edition of Visions on heretohelp.bc.ca

Mental Illness Awareness Week: Recovery is Possible - October 4-10 [back to top]
CMHA National is proud to be a founding member of Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW), a public education campaign spearheaded by the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health, with the support of thousands of mental health-care organizations and volunteers. A goal of MIAW is to ensure future generations are not impeded by the stigma currently surrounding mental illness. MIAW also aims to promote discussion and informed decision-making about mental health issues. Nearly one in five Canadians is affected by mental illness, yet a persistent stigma prevents millions from getting the help they need. This year's MIAW is focused on spending the anti-stigma message that "Recovery is Possible." For more information about how you can participate in MIAW visit www.miaw.ca

Psychiatric Art: What Words Cannot Say 2nd Annual Art Show in Penticton - October 3-November 1 [back to top]
This annual art show explores the experience of mental illness through creative peices and works of art. The exhibition is held at the Penticton Art Gallery, 199 Marina Way. This exhibition hopes to promote a greater understanding of people living with mental illness and showcase their creativity through presentation of these original works. For more information, visit www.galleries.bc.ca.

Mental Illness Awareness at SFU - October 4 - 10 [back to top]
Students for Mental Wellness will be hosting sessions to raise awareness and educate about mental wellness, mental illness and the associated stigmas at Simon Fraser University as part of Mental Illness Awareness Week. These sessions are being held at various times and locations. Contact brents@sfmw.ca for more details.

Not Just a Bad Day – Living with Bipolar Disorder – October 5 [back to top]
CMHA North and West Vancouver branch is hosting a DVD presentation on Bipolar followed by a post-screening discussion as part of a series of Mental Illness Awareness Week events. The show follows the experiences of three people living with bipolar, who are all patients of North Shore doctor Paul Termansen, who will present the post-screening discussion. The screening starts at 7pm at the Arts Studio in the West Vancouver Community Centre, 2121 Marine Drive W, West Vancouver.

Carts of Darkness: A Free Mental Health Public Film Screening - October 6 [back to top]
CMHA Richmond Branch is hosting a free film screening of "Carts of Darkness." This documentary film is a story of the endurance and resourcefulness of a group of homeless men living in North Vancouver, and their journeys down its treachourous mountain roads in discarded shopping carts. Door open at 7pm for light refreshments, with the screening starting at 7:30, at the Ralph Fisher Auditorium in Richmond Hospital, 7000 West Minister Hwy.

Changing the Stigma of Mental Illness – October 7 [back to top]
This health lecture, hosted by CMHA North and West Vancouver, features speakers who have a keen interest in demystifying the stigma of mental illness, and will offer guidance to help facilitate change. The lecture will explore mainstream society’s role in perpetuating stigma, and explore the differences in how physical and mental illnesses are treated. The lecture starts at 7pm in the Family Resource Centre at the John Braithwaite Community Centre, 145 W 1st St., North Vancouver.

FACES of Support Showcase/Open House in Penticton - October 7 [back to top]
The British Columbia Schizophrenia Society in Penticton will be hosting an open house showcasing support serves for people recovering from a mental illness, as well as their families, friends and the communities of the South Okanagan. The open house will be at the BCSS Penticton branch office, 205 Martin Street. For more information, contact Sharon Evans at bcsspentiction@shaw.ca or 250-493-7338.

Kelowna Mental Health Center Open House - October 7 [back to top]
The Kelowna Mental Health Center is inviting community partners and caregivers to tour the centre from 1-4pm. The tour will showcase programs offered by Mental Health and Addictions, and participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about available resources. The Kelowna Mental Health Centre is located at 1340 Ellis Street, second floor. For more information, contact John Yarschenko at john.yarschenko@interiorhealth.ca or 250-868-7788.

"Building Pathways for Hope" Fundraiser Dinner - October 7 [back to top]
Join CMHA Richmond Branch at their fundraiser dinner, "Building Pathways for Hope", at the Executive Airport Plaza Hotel. Dinner will be accompanied by live entertainment, a silent auction, and a live auction for two tickets to anywhere WestJet flies. The event starts at 5:30 pm. Tickets are $50/person; $360/table of 8; or $450/table of 10, and must be purchased by October 1. To purchase tickets, contact Dave MacDonald at 604-276-8834 ext. 31 or dave.macdonald@cmha.bc.ca.

Depression and Older Adults - October 8 [back to top]
CMHA Simon Fraser Branch, along with the BC Schizophrenia Society, Mood Disorders Association of BC, Douglas College and Fraser Health will be presenting Depression and Older Adults with Dr. Martha Donnelly. The presentation runs from 1-3pm in the Mike Butler room at the Dogwood Pavilion Recreation Centre, 624 Poirier St., Coquitlam. For more information, contact Pat Merrett at 604-873-0103.

Homelessness and Mental Illness - October 8 [back to top]
CMHA Simon Fraser Branch, along with the BC Schizophrenia Society, Mood Disorders Association of BC, Douglas College and Fraser Health will be presenting Homelessness and Mental Illness with Dr. Bill MacEwan. The presentation runs from 7-9pm at the SFU Westminster Savings Theatre, Simon Fraser University, 13450-102 Avenue, Surrey. For more information, contact Pat Merrett at 604-873-0103.

Concurrent Disorders Forum in Kelowna– October 8 [back to top]
CMHA Kelowna Branch is hosting a free public forum on concurrent disorders as part of their Knowledge is Power series. The forum will feature a powerpoint presentation, an open discussion panel of experts, and a guest speaker who will share her story. The forum is open to anyone who is interested, and is being held from 5:30-7:30pm at the Kelowna branch office, 504 Sutherland Ave, Kelowna.

Mental Health Film Festival - October 9 [back to top]
The Riverview Hospital Library is presenting a Mental Health Film Festival from 1-4pm. The festival will take place in the Henry Esson Young Building, 2601 Lougheed Hwy, Coquitlam.

Walk the World for HOPE in Downtown Penticton - October 9 [back to top]
British Columbia Schizophrenia Society Penticton branch is hosting Walk the World for HOPE, a community awareness and fundraiser event. The walk goes from noon to 2pm, with participants starting at the BCSS office, 205 Martin Street, walking through downtown, and returning to the office for lunch. Participants fundraise for BCSS Penticton by collecting pledges. For more information, contact Sharon Evans at bcsspenticton@shaw.ca or 250-493-7338

Gratitude Week Mental Health Awareness Forums– October 12-17 [back to top]
Gratitude Week is an event that invites all Vancouverites to come out and participate in ending homelessness. The week will have several events, including the daily Gratitude Gathering outside the Vancouver Art Gallery from 11am-2pm. The Gathering will have stakeholder tents, donation stations, Keynote/Celebrity speakers and Mental Health Awareness forums. Mental Health Awareness Forums will take place from 12:30-1pm, 1:30-2pm:
October 13 - Dr. Ian Forbes- Homelessness and mental health in Vancouver
October 14 - Dr. Antony Sehon- Strathcona Clinic medication compliance challenges
October 15 - Dr. Bill MacEwan- Housing or Warehousing: What are we doing to the homeless?
October 16 - Dr. Shaohua Lu- Homelessness and addiction.
Gratitude Week is also hosting a collaborative online forum, Gratitude Mala, where people can share ideas on the problem of homelessness. For more information, visit www.gratitudeweek.org.

Education Night on Concurrent Disorders: Mental Illness and Substance Abuse - October 15 [back to top]
The Mood Disorders Association of BC is hosting an education night on concurrent disorders of mental illness and substance abuse. The evening runs from 7-9pm at Sunrise Hall, 1950 Windermere St., Vancouver. For more information, call 604-873-0103 or email mdabc@telus.net

Psychologically Healthy Workplace Awards Gala – October 15 [back to top]
The 2009 Psychologically Healthy Workplace Awards are presented by the BC Psychological Association and its standing committee, the Psychologically Healthy Workplace Collaborative. The awards recognize companies and organizations for their efforts to promote psychological health in the workplace. The gala is being held from 5-8pm at the ICBC Salon at the Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, 580 W Hastings St., Vancouver, and will feature live music by June Katz. Registration for the gala closes October 13. Tickets are $51.98 for BCPA/HRMA members and $57.75 for non-members. For more information on the awards, visit www.phwc.ca
>>CMHA's Mental Health Works program offers workshops for business owners, employers and employees to help them create a more mentally healthy workplace.

Community Based Research Event Night - October 20 [back to top]
The BC Mental Health and Addictions Research Network's Community Based Research Hub is hosting a community based research event. "Taking it to the streets" will provide information on Community Based Research (CBR), the value of CBR in mental health and addictions research, and how to become involved in CBR. A 3-member panel, including Victoria Maxwell, Dr. Erin Michalak and Dr. Amy Salmon will discuss various topics such as getting involved in mental health research and opportunities and challenges of CBR. Refreshments will be provided. This community event will be taking place from 7-9:30pm at Gallery Gachet, 88 East Cordova, Vancouver. RSVP is appreciated. To RSVP, contact Sally McBride at 604-707-6364 or smcbride@phsa.ca.

Understanding Eating Disorders and Your Child - October 21 [back to top]
The Kelty Resource Centre, BC Children's Hospital Specialized Provincial Eating Disorder Program & Looking Glass Foundation are presenting a teleconference about eating disorders in children. The teleconference will run from 7-8pm. For more information, email keltycentre@bcmhs.bc.ca or call 1800-665-1822 or 604-875-2084.
>>For more information and resources on eating disorders, see the "Eating Disorders and Body Image" fact sheet on heretohelp.bc.ca.

Frames of Mind: Young Freud in Gaza - October 21 [back to top]
Frames of Mind is a monthly movie series designed to promote education and awareness surrounding mental health issues. This month's movie, Young Freud in Gaza, is the story of Ayed, a young psychotherapist at the Palestinian Authority's Clinic for Mental Health. The movie documents his work with a variety of patients, from young children who have lost siblings to militants learning meditation techniques, all against a background of conflict between Hamas and Fatah factions. There will be a post-screening discussion with Dr. Rene Weiderman, director of the Clinical Psychology Centre in the Department of Psychology at Simon Fraser University and the associate director of the Psychotherapy Training Program in the Department of Psychotherapy at the University of British Columbia. The film starts at 7:30pm at Pacific Cinémathèque Theatre, 1131 Howe Street. Eligible for 1.0 hour Section 1 of the Royal College's Maintenance of Certification Program. An adult ticket is $9.50. For more information and additional ticket prices, visit www.framesofmind.ca.

Forensic Psychiatric Hospital & Riverview Hospital Libraries Open House - October 22 [back to top]
The Forensic Psychiatric Hospital in Port Coquitlam and Riverview Hospital in Coquitlam libraries are hosting joint open houses. The open houses will feature a book draw, and will run all day from 9am-3:30 pm. The Forensic Psychiatry Hospital is located at 70 Colony Farm Road, Port Coquitlam and Riverview Hospital is located at 2601 Lougheed Highway, Coquitlam.

"Funny…You Don't Look Crazy" at the Genesis Theatre in Delta – October 28 [back to top]
Victoria Maxwell, mental health educator, actress, and playwright will present a one night only benefit performance of "Funny…You Don't Look Crazy", at the Genesis Theatre, Delta at 7:00 p.m. Tickets for this event, hosted by CMHA Delta branch, are $35.00 per person or $60.00 per couple. Group rates are available. For more information, or to order tickets, call 604-943-1878.

Stress, Depression and Eating Disorders - October 29 [back to top]
The Kelty Resource Centre, BC Children's Hospital Specialized Provincial Eating Disorder Program & Looking Glass Foundation are presenting a lecture about stress, depression and eating disorders. The presentation will run from 1:30-3pm at the John Oliver Secondary School, 540 E 41st Ave, Vancouver.

Kelty Resource Centre Open House - October 29 [back to top]
The Kelty Resource Centre will be having an open house from 2-4:30pm. The centre is located at BC Children's Hospital Room P3-302, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver (30th Ave and Heather St).

CMHA Delta Fundraiser Dinner with the Honourable Kevin Falcon – October 30 [back to top]
CMHA Delta Branch is hosting a fundraiser dinner with the Honourable Kevin Falcon, Minister of Health Services, Government of British Columbia. This fund-raising dinner and silent auction will be held at the River Rock Casino ballroom, Friday, October 30, 2009 starting with cocktails at 6:00 p.m., followed by dinner at 7pm. Tickets $100 per person (a $50.00 tax receipt will be issued) 604-943-1878.

COURSES AND WORKSHOPS

Critical Incident Stress Management Certificate Program [back to top]
The Justice Institute of BC is holding a program for frontline and management staff who support and assist individuals coping with the immediate consequences of crime and trauma. This program leads to certification with the Association of Traumatic Stress Specialists. The full program includes multiple courses that must be completed within three years to obtain certification, such as Critical Incident Stress Debriefing, Managing Responses to Community Disasters and Psychological First Aid. For more information on the certification, visit www.atss.info. For more information on the program, or to register visit www.jibc.ca.

Issues and Solutions: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace in North Vancouver– October 8 [back to top]
North Shore Community Resources is hosting "Issues and Solutions: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace," a Mental Health Works workshop. This 90 minute workshop provides managers, employers and business owners with strategies for identifying and addressing mental health issues in the workplace. The session will run from 9:30am-11am in the Paul Singh Quiet Study Room at the North Vancouver Public Library, 120 W 14th St, North Vancouver. Cost is $25 and participants must reserve their spots. To register, call Katie Hughes at (604) 987-6959 x. 223. For more information on Mental Health Works, visit www.mentalhealthworks.com.
>>Mental Health Works offers a variety of workshops for business owners, employers and employees. Visit cmha.bc.ca/mentalhealthworks to find one that suits your workplace's needs.

Issues and Solutions: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace in Vancouver- October 15 [back to top]
Western Canada EAPA branch is hosting "Issues and Solutions: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace" for members of the EAP association and others. This three-hour workshop provides managers, employers and business owners with strategies for identifying and addressing mental health issues in the workplace. The session will run from 8:30am-11:15am at 1200-1090 W Georgia, Vancouver. A $15 fee will be collected at the door. To register for this second session of this award-winning workshop, e-mail csutton@clairesutton.com. For more information, visit www.bceapa.com.

Creating Healthy, High-Performing Organizations in Challenging Economic Times – October 16 [back to top]
This workshop, presented by David Ballard, Assistant Executive Director for Corporate Relations and Business Strategy at the American Psychological Association (APA) and the APA Practice Organization, explores the APA's Psychologically Healthy Workplace Model. It will examine how the model can be used as a comprehensive framework to create environments where employees and employers can thrive, while exploring the major challenges faced by employers and employees. The workshop runs from 8:30am-noon, with breakfast available at 8am. It will be held at the Arbutus Club, 2001 Nanton Avenue, Vancouver. Registration closes October 13. Cost is $115 for students and members, $145 for non-members. For more information, visit www.psychologists.bc.ca.

Issues and Solutions: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace in Richmond– October 27 [back to top]
SUCCESS is hosting Mental Health in the Workplace: Issues and Solutions, a Mental Health Works workshop, for Chinese-language speakers. The two-hour presentation will give business owners and managers practical strategies for identifying and addressing mental health concerns in the workplace. The workshop runs from 3-5 pm in Room #345 Richmond Caring Place, 345-7000 Minoru Boulevard. Cost is $35. Visit successbc.ca for more information, or to register.

The Revisioning of Family Therapy: Race, Culture, and Gender in Clinical Practice - October 29-30 [back to top]
The Justice Institute of BC New Westminister campus is holding a course for professionals, led by internationally recognized clinician, author and trainer Dr. Kenneth V. Hardy, that takes a fresh and critical look at the anatomy of oppression. The course will explore the effects of oppression on the lives of children and families, along with the process of treatment. Participants will be provided with a conceptual framework for working effectively with a range of diverse planning. The cost for this course is $295. A group rate of $275 is available. For more information contact Caroline White at 604-528-5620 or counsellingpc@jibc.ca, or visit www.jibc.ca/cccs. To register, call 604-528-5590 or 1-877-528-5591.

Issues and Solutions: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace in Kelowna– November 3 [back to top]
BC Human Resource Management Association s hosting Mental Health in the Workplace: Issues and Solutions, a Mental Health Works workshop, open to HR professionals, managers and business owners in Kelowna. This three-hour workshop provides managers, employers and business owners with strategies for identifying and addressing mental health issues in the workplace. The session will run from 1pm-4pm at the Best Western Conference Centre, 2400 Hwy 97 N, Kelowna. Registration and lunch start at noon. Early bird registration for this presentation is $141.75 for members, and $220.50 for non-members before October 20. For more information, or to register, visit www.bchrma.org.

Mental Illness First Aid in Courtenay – November 8-9 [back to top]
CMHA Mid-Island Branch is offering a Mental Illness First Aid course. The course will teach the three Rs: Recognize the signs and symptoms; Respond appropriately to the individual requiring treatment; and Refer the person to a variety of agencies and supports in the community. The course is open to the general public and organizations. It runs from 9-5 pm both days. Light refreshments are included but participants should bring their own lunch. Cost is $150 for not-for-profit employees and $225 for public and business sector employees. Group rates are available for groups of 10-25 employees. For more information, visit www.courtenay.cmha.bc.ca, or call 250-337-8233.

CONFERENCES

NeuroPsychiatry Conference - October 19 [back to top]
The BC Neuropsychiatry Program's 2009 conference is designed for professionals who work in mental health, including physicians, nurses, psychologists, social workers, physiotherapists, rehabilitation and care aids. This year's conference will cover the issues of violence and its management in clinical practice, and somatoform disorders. Other plenary sessions include Case Definition in Neuropsychiatry, Psychiatric Presentations of Brain Injury, and How to Get Your Patients Treated. The conference is held from 8am-4:30 at the Coast Plaza Hotel, 1763 Comox Street, Vancouver. Cost: $239 early-bird before Oct. 5, $299 after. For more information, or to register, visit www.bcmhas.ca.

Cross Cultural Mental Health Conference – October 21 - 22 [back to top]
The 14th Annual Cross Cultural Mental Health Conference includes presentations by Dr. Gabor Maté, a former medical author and columnist who was worked with patients in the downtown eastside for the past 12 years, Dr. Steven K.H. Aung, an associate clinical professor from the University of Alberta and practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine, and Dr. Sharon Smith, who has just completed a PhD that explored the meaning of spirituality for people living with schizophrenia and works for the integration of people with severe mental illness into spiritual communities. The conference will be held at Simon Fraser University at Harbour Centre 515 West Hastings Street, Vancouver. Early bird registration costs $180 for a regular registration and is available until October 1. For the complete schedule, or to register, visit www.ccmhs.ca.

Diversity Matters: An Ongoing Conversation - November 2-3 [back to top]
Diversity Matters conference is the first biannual conference hosted by Providence Health Care and Covenant Health to explore the role of diversity in the field of healthcare. Topics include providing ethno-cultural care within mental health and addictions, Culturally Competent Assertive Community Treatment Teams (ACTT) and mental health court support, and the role of cultural idioms of distress in psychiatric diagnosis. Participants will have the opportunity to select from a variety of workshops. The conference will be held at the Coast Plaza Hotel & Suites Conference Centre, 1763 Comox Street, Vancouver. Full conference registration is $350. Day rates and student rates are available. For more information, or to register, visitwww.providencehealthcare.org

Open Minds Across Canada – November 7 [back to top]
Open Minds Across Canada is a half-day, nationwide mental health symposium. It will feature presentations on varied mental health issues presented by researchers, who will translate their findings for the general public. Open Minds is being held at 8 sites across Canada. The British Columbia symposium is being held at the Chan Centre at the BC Research Institute for Children's and Women's Health, at the corner of Oak and 28th st., Vancouver. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.cprf.ca

Into the Light National Mental Health Conference – November 29 – December 1
Into the Light: Transforming Mental Health in Canada, a national mental health conference, is coming to Vancouver. The conference, which is presented by the Mental Health Commission of Canada, Vancouver Coastal Health and Simon Fraser University, will bring together members of the mental health community in Canada. There will be representatives from policy and planning, service provides, consumers, family and community representatives. The conference will showcase the emerging Canadian Mental Health Strategy, as well as feature a policy forum. Early bird (until November 2) delegate fees are $495 or a daily rate of $150; student and family/consumer group rates are available. For more information, or to register visit www.intothelightcanada.com.

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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