Showing posts with label addiction. Show all posts
Showing posts with label addiction. Show all posts
Monday, December 03, 2007
Mental Health of Government Assisted Refugees: Launch of Community-Based Research Initiative
Access Alliance Multicultural Community Health Centre (AAMCHC) in collaboration with Dr Carles Muntaner, Psychiatry and Addiction Nursing Research Chair at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, is initiating a new research initiative focused on exploring mental health issues for Government Assisted Refugees (GARs). In line with Access Alliance’s commitment to community-based participatory research principles, they will be recruiting GARs themselves to sit on our advisory committee and work as research collaborators in this project.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Kaiser Foundation - National Awards for Excellence
The National Awards for Excellence Program is supported by the Kaiser Foundation, Federal and Provincial governments and other national partners in order to recognize the selfless and outstanding work of individuals and organizations across Canada who are reducing the harm associated with addictive behaviour, substance use and mental health issues through their leadership, new ideas, research and education.
There are seven award categories for which Canadians can be nominated:
* Excellence in Public Policy
* Excellence in Community Programming
* Excellence in Aboriginal Programming
* Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use Programming
* Excellence in Leadership
* Excellence in Youth Leadership
* Excellence in Media Reporting
Each of the award recipients receives a $10,000 grant to be given to a recognized charity of their choice. The winners and a guest are provided with accommodation and airfare to the host city (Calgary in 2008) to attend the awards ceremony.
Closing for the 2008 National Awards for Excellence is November 16, 2007.
For more information, please see the Call for Nominations.
There are seven award categories for which Canadians can be nominated:
* Excellence in Public Policy
* Excellence in Community Programming
* Excellence in Aboriginal Programming
* Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use Programming
* Excellence in Leadership
* Excellence in Youth Leadership
* Excellence in Media Reporting
Each of the award recipients receives a $10,000 grant to be given to a recognized charity of their choice. The winners and a guest are provided with accommodation and airfare to the host city (Calgary in 2008) to attend the awards ceremony.
Closing for the 2008 National Awards for Excellence is November 16, 2007.
For more information, please see the Call for Nominations.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Average length of hospital stay higher for mental illness patients
October 11, 2007--A new annual report from the Canadian Institute for Health Information shows that in 2004-2005 patients diagnosed with mental illness represented 6% of all general hospital discharges or deaths (separations) in Canada, but 13% of all inpatient days. This is due to the fact that, on average, mental illness patients had longer stays in general hospitals (17 days) compared to other patients (7 days). The average length of stay was even longer for those in psychiatric hospitals (109 days, excluding Quebec data).
During the same period, mood disorders were the primary diagnoses in over a third (34%) of all mental illness separations for general and psychiatric hospitals combined, followed by schizophrenic and psychotic disorders (21%) and substance-related disorders (16%). The mood-disorder diagnosis group was the largest for all provinces and territories, with the exception of the Northwest Territories, where the substance-related disorder group was the largest.
Hospital Mental Health Services in Canada, 2004-2005
During the same period, mood disorders were the primary diagnoses in over a third (34%) of all mental illness separations for general and psychiatric hospitals combined, followed by schizophrenic and psychotic disorders (21%) and substance-related disorders (16%). The mood-disorder diagnosis group was the largest for all provinces and territories, with the exception of the Northwest Territories, where the substance-related disorder group was the largest.
Hospital Mental Health Services in Canada, 2004-2005
Friday, August 31, 2007
Well done Nova Scotia!
The province of Nova Scotia is promoting a "culture of moderation" around alcohol use...
Ottawa, August 31, 2007 - The Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse (CCSA), a national organization working to reduce alcohol- and drug-related harm, welcomes Nova Scotia's new alcohol strategy, Changing the Culture of Alcohol Use in Nova Scotia, and is particularly pleased that the provincial strategy embraces a "culture of moderation" as outlined in recent recommendations for a National Alcohol Strategy.
An expert working group, co-chaired by CCSA, the Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission and Health Canada, was created to develop consensus on recommendations for a National Alcohol Strategy. The multi-sectoral working group had representatives from government, non-governmental organizations, industry and regulatory bodies, and the research community. Nova Scotia is the first province to interpret the recommendations for a National Alcohol Strategy at the provincial level.
"We are very pleased to see Nova Scotia's commitment to and investment in reducing alcohol-related harm and we celebrate their efforts to proactively address problematic alcohol use," said CCSA's Chief Executive Officer, Michel Perron.
Both the provincial and national strategic approaches focus on alcohol from a public health perspective and underline alcohol's significant role in contributing to health and social harms in Canada. The national report, Reducing Alcohol-Related Harm in Canada: Toward a Culture of Moderation- Recommendations for a National Alcohol Strategy addresses four key strategic action areas: health promotion, prevention and education; health impacts and treatment; availability of alcohol; and safer communities.
"The development of recommendations for a National Alcohol Strategy was the result of a collaborative and dedicated approach by a diverse group of stakeholders and we must build on that success by ensuring a strong, complementary and applied execution of the Strategy," said Mr. Perron. "As co-chair, CCSA has taken an active role in promoting and monitoring the implementation of this national initiative and has identified several recommendations that will be a priority in the coming months, including enhanced efforts to transfer knowledge around prevention, treatment and population health policies and programs."
To access the national report, please visit the CCSA website at or the website for the National Framework for Action to Reduce the Harms Associated with Alcohol and Other Drugs and Substances in Canada.
For More Information Contact :
Brooke Bryce
Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse (CCSA)
(613) 235-4048 ext. 243
bbryce@ccsa.ca
Ottawa, August 31, 2007 - The Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse (CCSA), a national organization working to reduce alcohol- and drug-related harm, welcomes Nova Scotia's new alcohol strategy, Changing the Culture of Alcohol Use in Nova Scotia, and is particularly pleased that the provincial strategy embraces a "culture of moderation" as outlined in recent recommendations for a National Alcohol Strategy.
An expert working group, co-chaired by CCSA, the Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission and Health Canada, was created to develop consensus on recommendations for a National Alcohol Strategy. The multi-sectoral working group had representatives from government, non-governmental organizations, industry and regulatory bodies, and the research community. Nova Scotia is the first province to interpret the recommendations for a National Alcohol Strategy at the provincial level.
"We are very pleased to see Nova Scotia's commitment to and investment in reducing alcohol-related harm and we celebrate their efforts to proactively address problematic alcohol use," said CCSA's Chief Executive Officer, Michel Perron.
Both the provincial and national strategic approaches focus on alcohol from a public health perspective and underline alcohol's significant role in contributing to health and social harms in Canada. The national report, Reducing Alcohol-Related Harm in Canada: Toward a Culture of Moderation- Recommendations for a National Alcohol Strategy addresses four key strategic action areas: health promotion, prevention and education; health impacts and treatment; availability of alcohol; and safer communities.
"The development of recommendations for a National Alcohol Strategy was the result of a collaborative and dedicated approach by a diverse group of stakeholders and we must build on that success by ensuring a strong, complementary and applied execution of the Strategy," said Mr. Perron. "As co-chair, CCSA has taken an active role in promoting and monitoring the implementation of this national initiative and has identified several recommendations that will be a priority in the coming months, including enhanced efforts to transfer knowledge around prevention, treatment and population health policies and programs."
To access the national report, please visit the CCSA website at or the website for the National Framework for Action to Reduce the Harms Associated with Alcohol and Other Drugs and Substances in Canada.
For More Information Contact :
Brooke Bryce
Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse (CCSA)
(613) 235-4048 ext. 243
bbryce@ccsa.ca
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Mental disorders account for more than half of hospital stays among the homeless in Canada
New CIHI report offers overview of links between mental health, mental illness and homelessness
August 30, 2007—Mental disorders accounted for 52% of acute care hospitalizations among the homeless in 2005–2006 (outside Quebec), according to a new report released today by the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI). In addition, the report shows that 35% of visits to selected emergency departments (EDs)—mostly in Ontario—by homeless people were related to mental and behavioural disorders, a proportion that is higher than that for other patients (3%).
The Improving the Health of Canadians: Mental Health and Homelessness report provides an overview of the latest research, surveys and policy initiatives related to mental health and homelessness and, for the first time, presents data on hospital use by homeless Canadians.
“Mental illness affects a broad range of Canadians; most people with compromised mental health are not homeless, and many people who are homeless have never been diagnosed with a mental illness,” says Dr. Jennifer Zelmer, Vice President, Research and Analysis at CIHI. “However, studies show that people who are homeless are more likely to suffer from a mental illness or compromised mental health than the general population.”
For example, the leading reasons for hospital use were different for homeless patients and others. Mental disorders were the most common diagnoses among homeless patients admitted to an acute care hospital in 2005–2006 (52% of admissions). The most frequent reasons for hospitalization among other patients were pregnancy and childbirth (13%). Likewise, 35% of visits by homeless persons to selected EDs (mostly in Ontario) were related to mental disorders; injury and poisonings were the most common reasons for ED visits among other patients (25%). Among ED patients recorded as homeless, the most common type of mental disorder was substance abuse, which accounted for 54% of visits (62% for homeless men and 30% for homeless women), followed by other psychotic disorders (20% of visits), such as schizophrenia.
Homelessness linked with stress, coping, low self-esteem, low levels of social support and suicide
The report notes many factors both at the individual and broader social level—such as housing, income and the ability to cope—that have been shown to contribute to the onset or duration of homelessness. Many of these same factors are also linked to compromised mental health.
“This report explores the complex relationship between mental health and homelessness,” says Dr. Elizabeth Votta, Program Lead at the Canadian Population Health Initiative, a program of CIHI. “People with severe mental illness may experience limited housing, employment and income options. On the other hand, people who are homeless tend to report higher stress, lower self-worth, less social support and different coping strategies, factors that are associated with depressive symptoms, substance abuse, suicidal behaviours and poor self-rated health.”
Research cited in the report indicates that the homeless often experience more difficulty coping with stress, experience lower self-esteem and have less social support than people who are not homeless. For example:
-A study in Ottawa revealed that homeless male youth reported stress levels more than twice as high as levels reported by a group of non-homeless youth.
-A study in Kitchener–Waterloo showed that street youth were more likely to engage in substance abuse and self-harm as a means of coping. Non-homeless youth were more likely to cope by talking to someone they trusted or through productive problem-solving.
-A national survey found that 2% of males and 6% of females aged 15 to 24 reported having attempted suicide in Canada. Studies report higher rates among homeless youth. For example, a 2006 British Columbia survey indicates that 15% of males and 30% of females who were street-involved and marginalized reported having attempted suicide at least once in the previous 12 months.
The report also cites many examples of research linking mental illness and homelessness. These studies, conducted across Canada with different methods and over different periods of time, tended to show higher levels of diagnosed mental illness among people who were homeless than among the population as a whole. Several studies also indicate that rates of substance abuse are higher among the homeless than among other Canadians. Research suggests that homeless individuals with both a substance abuse disorder and a mental illness diagnosis are likely to remain homeless longer than others.
Canadian Population Health Initiative
The Canadian Population Health Initiative (CPHI) is part of the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI). CPHI supports research to advance knowledge on the determinants of health in Canada and to develop policy options to improve population health and reduce health inequalities.
About CIHI
The Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) collects and analyzes information on health and health care in Canada and makes it publicly available. Canada’s federal, provincial and territorial governments created CIHI as a not-for-profit, independent organization dedicated to forging a common approach to Canadian health information. CIHI’s goal: to provide timely, accurate and comparable information. CIHI’s data and reports inform health policies, support the effective delivery of health services and raise awareness among Canadians of the factors that contribute to good health.
- 30 -
Media contacts:
Christina Lawand
613-241-7860 ext. 4310
Cell: 613-299-5695
clawand@cihi.ca
Leona Hollingsworth
613-241-7860 ext. 4140
Cell: 613-612-3914
lhollingsworth@cihi.ca
The report and the following figures and tables are available from CIHI’s website at www.cihi.ca.
Table 1. Top Five Reasons for Emergency Department Visits by the Homeless and Others, 2005–2006 (based on Table 4 in the report)
Table 2. Top Five Reasons for Inpatient Hospitalization Among the Homeless and Others, 2005–2006 (based on Table 5 in the report)
Table 3. Reported Mental Illness Among Canada’s Homeless in a Sample of Canadian Cities: Results From Selected Studies (based on Table 2 in the report)
August 30, 2007—Mental disorders accounted for 52% of acute care hospitalizations among the homeless in 2005–2006 (outside Quebec), according to a new report released today by the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI). In addition, the report shows that 35% of visits to selected emergency departments (EDs)—mostly in Ontario—by homeless people were related to mental and behavioural disorders, a proportion that is higher than that for other patients (3%).
The Improving the Health of Canadians: Mental Health and Homelessness report provides an overview of the latest research, surveys and policy initiatives related to mental health and homelessness and, for the first time, presents data on hospital use by homeless Canadians.
“Mental illness affects a broad range of Canadians; most people with compromised mental health are not homeless, and many people who are homeless have never been diagnosed with a mental illness,” says Dr. Jennifer Zelmer, Vice President, Research and Analysis at CIHI. “However, studies show that people who are homeless are more likely to suffer from a mental illness or compromised mental health than the general population.”
For example, the leading reasons for hospital use were different for homeless patients and others. Mental disorders were the most common diagnoses among homeless patients admitted to an acute care hospital in 2005–2006 (52% of admissions). The most frequent reasons for hospitalization among other patients were pregnancy and childbirth (13%). Likewise, 35% of visits by homeless persons to selected EDs (mostly in Ontario) were related to mental disorders; injury and poisonings were the most common reasons for ED visits among other patients (25%). Among ED patients recorded as homeless, the most common type of mental disorder was substance abuse, which accounted for 54% of visits (62% for homeless men and 30% for homeless women), followed by other psychotic disorders (20% of visits), such as schizophrenia.
Homelessness linked with stress, coping, low self-esteem, low levels of social support and suicide
The report notes many factors both at the individual and broader social level—such as housing, income and the ability to cope—that have been shown to contribute to the onset or duration of homelessness. Many of these same factors are also linked to compromised mental health.
“This report explores the complex relationship between mental health and homelessness,” says Dr. Elizabeth Votta, Program Lead at the Canadian Population Health Initiative, a program of CIHI. “People with severe mental illness may experience limited housing, employment and income options. On the other hand, people who are homeless tend to report higher stress, lower self-worth, less social support and different coping strategies, factors that are associated with depressive symptoms, substance abuse, suicidal behaviours and poor self-rated health.”
Research cited in the report indicates that the homeless often experience more difficulty coping with stress, experience lower self-esteem and have less social support than people who are not homeless. For example:
-A study in Ottawa revealed that homeless male youth reported stress levels more than twice as high as levels reported by a group of non-homeless youth.
-A study in Kitchener–Waterloo showed that street youth were more likely to engage in substance abuse and self-harm as a means of coping. Non-homeless youth were more likely to cope by talking to someone they trusted or through productive problem-solving.
-A national survey found that 2% of males and 6% of females aged 15 to 24 reported having attempted suicide in Canada. Studies report higher rates among homeless youth. For example, a 2006 British Columbia survey indicates that 15% of males and 30% of females who were street-involved and marginalized reported having attempted suicide at least once in the previous 12 months.
The report also cites many examples of research linking mental illness and homelessness. These studies, conducted across Canada with different methods and over different periods of time, tended to show higher levels of diagnosed mental illness among people who were homeless than among the population as a whole. Several studies also indicate that rates of substance abuse are higher among the homeless than among other Canadians. Research suggests that homeless individuals with both a substance abuse disorder and a mental illness diagnosis are likely to remain homeless longer than others.
Canadian Population Health Initiative
The Canadian Population Health Initiative (CPHI) is part of the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI). CPHI supports research to advance knowledge on the determinants of health in Canada and to develop policy options to improve population health and reduce health inequalities.
About CIHI
The Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) collects and analyzes information on health and health care in Canada and makes it publicly available. Canada’s federal, provincial and territorial governments created CIHI as a not-for-profit, independent organization dedicated to forging a common approach to Canadian health information. CIHI’s goal: to provide timely, accurate and comparable information. CIHI’s data and reports inform health policies, support the effective delivery of health services and raise awareness among Canadians of the factors that contribute to good health.
- 30 -
Media contacts:
Christina Lawand
613-241-7860 ext. 4310
Cell: 613-299-5695
clawand@cihi.ca
Leona Hollingsworth
613-241-7860 ext. 4140
Cell: 613-612-3914
lhollingsworth@cihi.ca
The report and the following figures and tables are available from CIHI’s website at www.cihi.ca.
Table 1. Top Five Reasons for Emergency Department Visits by the Homeless and Others, 2005–2006 (based on Table 4 in the report)
Table 2. Top Five Reasons for Inpatient Hospitalization Among the Homeless and Others, 2005–2006 (based on Table 5 in the report)
Table 3. Reported Mental Illness Among Canada’s Homeless in a Sample of Canadian Cities: Results From Selected Studies (based on Table 2 in the report)
Monday, June 25, 2007
International Initiative on Mental Health Leadership
The international meeting of the International Initiative on Mental Health Leadership is fast approaching.
Canada will be hosting the formal events in Ottawa at the Chateau Laurier from August 29 - 31, 2007.
As a member of this initiative, the National Network for Mental Health will be hosting like organizations from around the globe including but not limited to the following guests:
- Jenny Speed, Deputy Director, Australian Mental Health Consumer Network Inc (Australia)
- Noreen Fitzgibbon, Regional Co-ordinator, Cork, CountyCork, Irish Advocacy Network (Ireland)
- Judi Chamberlin, Consumer Survivor / User Advocate, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) (United States)
- Shaun McNeil, Secretary, VOX-Voices Of eXperience (Scotland)
- Susan Crooks, Chief Executive Officer, THE LIGHT HOUSE TRUST (New Zealand
- Anne Beales, Director, Together Working for Well Being (United Kingdom)
For more information on this initiative please visit this website.
Canada will be hosting the formal events in Ottawa at the Chateau Laurier from August 29 - 31, 2007.
As a member of this initiative, the National Network for Mental Health will be hosting like organizations from around the globe including but not limited to the following guests:
- Jenny Speed, Deputy Director, Australian Mental Health Consumer Network Inc (Australia)
- Noreen Fitzgibbon, Regional Co-ordinator, Cork, CountyCork, Irish Advocacy Network (Ireland)
- Judi Chamberlin, Consumer Survivor / User Advocate, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) (United States)
- Shaun McNeil, Secretary, VOX-Voices Of eXperience (Scotland)
- Susan Crooks, Chief Executive Officer, THE LIGHT HOUSE TRUST (New Zealand
- Anne Beales, Director, Together Working for Well Being (United Kingdom)
For more information on this initiative please visit this website.
Sunday, April 01, 2007
On gratitude
It’s Sunday and my partner needed to spend a day at the office. I thought I’d be productive and get some work done too. So, we drove downtown together and went our separate ways to clock time.
My first stop was the public library at 11:00 a.m. I pulled on the door handle and it was stuck – actually – it was locked. I noticed the hours of operation posted nearby. To my surprise, the main branch does not open until 1:00 p.m. on Sundays.
Laptop in tow, I found a spot across the street at a coffee shop. A “Hot Spot”, Internet users can log-on for a fee and enjoy some steaming brew. I have used wireless in coffee shops before. My usual haunt offers wireless for free and the simplicity of entering a password provided by the cashier. At today’s location, I was instructed to provide my cell phone number…in order to receive a text message with the necessary password…for $7.50 an hour.
Well, I forgot my cell phone at home and my Blackberry is on the fritz so this wasn’t going to work. A second option was available to gain access by paying with credit card. But, I couldn’t bring myself to do it. The fee, frustration, and security concern of entering my info during public Internet access was all too much for me.
I decided to try something I haven’t tried in a long time – work on my laptop without my Internet running in the background. For some of you reading, you know this task is not as easy as it sounds. As a communications professional, I am glued to Google searches, email, news sites, and dictionary.com. It is my job after all.
I managed to put in 2 hours of work this way. It felt good, but I was still experiencing some Internet withdrawal.
At 1:00 p.m. I maintained my work ethic and re-visited the library. I renewed my card with the help of a friendly librarian. While I visit bookstores regularly and use university libraries’ services online, sadly, I hadn’t been to the public library for ages – so long that my card had expired and disappeared.
I perused the psychology, marketing and fundraising sections. I found a few titles to borrow and signed them out using the self-checkout machine.
Since I didn’t have my cell phone with me, I thought I’d fire off an email to my partner to find out if he was ready to meet and head home. Blackberry dead, I opened my laptop to go online. I soon found out there isn’t wireless at the Public Library.
I grabbed a seat at one of the many desktop computers lined along the wall. Although unoccupied, the half-dozen or so free computers had holds placed on them. I found out from the librarian that I would have to go downstairs to a different set of computers to place a hold on one the computers upstairs.
With some patience left, I went downstairs only to find all the computers were occupied – presumably by people booking their time for the computers upstairs???
Alas, without Internet or a cell phone, I did another something else that I haven’t done in awhile…..I used the pay phone.
Am I addicted to the Internet? Perhaps. Impatient? Perhaps.
Today, I was reminded not to take things for granted. And I’m not just referring to technology.
I saw many kinds of people at the library. There were people looking for jobs, friends and, for some, a warm place to stay/sleep during the rain. For them, the library is an important public facility.
Clearly, one person’s frustration is another’s satisfaction.
Isabella Mori has it right. It’s important to think about gratefulness on a regular basis. I remember writing about my gratitude often as a part of my recovery from mental illness. This simple action helped me through the worst of times.
Here are just a few of things I am grateful for today:
-waking up, healthy, in a great house with the love of my life
-enjoying breakfast with my family (my parents were in town)
-the kind person working at the coffee shop
-the kind person working at the library
-having a car in order to drive downtown and free parking on Sunday
-Canadian artists (I’m watching the Juno Awards)
-spring flowers
-clean air
-rain
What are you grateful for?
My first stop was the public library at 11:00 a.m. I pulled on the door handle and it was stuck – actually – it was locked. I noticed the hours of operation posted nearby. To my surprise, the main branch does not open until 1:00 p.m. on Sundays.
Laptop in tow, I found a spot across the street at a coffee shop. A “Hot Spot”, Internet users can log-on for a fee and enjoy some steaming brew. I have used wireless in coffee shops before. My usual haunt offers wireless for free and the simplicity of entering a password provided by the cashier. At today’s location, I was instructed to provide my cell phone number…in order to receive a text message with the necessary password…for $7.50 an hour.
Well, I forgot my cell phone at home and my Blackberry is on the fritz so this wasn’t going to work. A second option was available to gain access by paying with credit card. But, I couldn’t bring myself to do it. The fee, frustration, and security concern of entering my info during public Internet access was all too much for me.
I decided to try something I haven’t tried in a long time – work on my laptop without my Internet running in the background. For some of you reading, you know this task is not as easy as it sounds. As a communications professional, I am glued to Google searches, email, news sites, and dictionary.com. It is my job after all.
I managed to put in 2 hours of work this way. It felt good, but I was still experiencing some Internet withdrawal.
At 1:00 p.m. I maintained my work ethic and re-visited the library. I renewed my card with the help of a friendly librarian. While I visit bookstores regularly and use university libraries’ services online, sadly, I hadn’t been to the public library for ages – so long that my card had expired and disappeared.
I perused the psychology, marketing and fundraising sections. I found a few titles to borrow and signed them out using the self-checkout machine.
Since I didn’t have my cell phone with me, I thought I’d fire off an email to my partner to find out if he was ready to meet and head home. Blackberry dead, I opened my laptop to go online. I soon found out there isn’t wireless at the Public Library.
I grabbed a seat at one of the many desktop computers lined along the wall. Although unoccupied, the half-dozen or so free computers had holds placed on them. I found out from the librarian that I would have to go downstairs to a different set of computers to place a hold on one the computers upstairs.
With some patience left, I went downstairs only to find all the computers were occupied – presumably by people booking their time for the computers upstairs???
Alas, without Internet or a cell phone, I did another something else that I haven’t done in awhile…..I used the pay phone.
Am I addicted to the Internet? Perhaps. Impatient? Perhaps.
Today, I was reminded not to take things for granted. And I’m not just referring to technology.
I saw many kinds of people at the library. There were people looking for jobs, friends and, for some, a warm place to stay/sleep during the rain. For them, the library is an important public facility.
Clearly, one person’s frustration is another’s satisfaction.
Isabella Mori has it right. It’s important to think about gratefulness on a regular basis. I remember writing about my gratitude often as a part of my recovery from mental illness. This simple action helped me through the worst of times.
Here are just a few of things I am grateful for today:
-waking up, healthy, in a great house with the love of my life
-enjoying breakfast with my family (my parents were in town)
-the kind person working at the coffee shop
-the kind person working at the library
-having a car in order to drive downtown and free parking on Sunday
-Canadian artists (I’m watching the Juno Awards)
-spring flowers
-clean air
-rain
What are you grateful for?
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Mental health groups thrilled with budget announcement
In May 2006, the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs Science and Technology, led by Senator Michael Kirby, released the final report “Out of the Shadows at Last: Transforming Mental Health, Mental Illness and Addiction Services in Canada”. One of the report’s major recommendations was to establish a Mental Health Commission.
Yesterday, Canada’s government announced funding for the creation of the commission. Mental health groups across Canada are welcoming the news with open arms.
Here is what some mental health spokespersons are saying:
“The establishment of the commission legitimizes our concerns that Canada can do a better job in providing mental health services for its citizens,” said Chris Summerville, Interim Chief Executive Officer of the Schizophrenia Society of Canada. “It gives us the opportunity to reclaim the lives of those with mental illness who have been left in the shadows of stigma and discrimination and a fragmented mental health system.”
"We would like to congratulate Michael Kirby on being named Chair of the new Canadian Mental Health Commission. His passion and commitment - as well as that of his Senate Committee colleagues - have resulted in the creation of this new commission today, and his leadership will ensure that it makes a real difference tomorrow. We are thrilled," said Dr. Paul Garfinkel, President & CEO of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health.
"We applaud the government on this important decision," said Phil Upshall, National Executive Director of the Mood Disorders Society of Canada. "We look forward to working with the government, the Honourable Michael Kirby, Chair of the Commission, and our partners at Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness Mental Health to make the Commission a success."
Yesterday, Canada’s government announced funding for the creation of the commission. Mental health groups across Canada are welcoming the news with open arms.
Here is what some mental health spokespersons are saying:
“The establishment of the commission legitimizes our concerns that Canada can do a better job in providing mental health services for its citizens,” said Chris Summerville, Interim Chief Executive Officer of the Schizophrenia Society of Canada. “It gives us the opportunity to reclaim the lives of those with mental illness who have been left in the shadows of stigma and discrimination and a fragmented mental health system.”
"We would like to congratulate Michael Kirby on being named Chair of the new Canadian Mental Health Commission. His passion and commitment - as well as that of his Senate Committee colleagues - have resulted in the creation of this new commission today, and his leadership will ensure that it makes a real difference tomorrow. We are thrilled," said Dr. Paul Garfinkel, President & CEO of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health.
"We applaud the government on this important decision," said Phil Upshall, National Executive Director of the Mood Disorders Society of Canada. "We look forward to working with the government, the Honourable Michael Kirby, Chair of the Commission, and our partners at Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness Mental Health to make the Commission a success."
Summary of the 2007 Budget
(from the Canadian Mental Health Association)
Mental Health Commission
• $10 million over two years and $15 million a year thereafter to establish the Canadian Mental Health Commission, headed by Michael Kirby.
• $400 million for Canada Health Infoway to support the development of electronic health records.
• $22-million-per-year increase to the Canadian Institute for Health Information.
Income Security Elements
• A Working Income Tax Benefit of up to $1,000 per year for families or $500 for individuals will help people over the "welfare wall" and strengthen incentives to work for more than 1.2 million low-income Canadians.
• A new Registered Disability Savings Plan to help parents and others save money to care for children with severe disabilities.
• $10 million a year to expand the New Horizons for Seniors program, which will help prevent abuse and telemarketing fraud and to expand capital assistance for community buildings, equipment and furnishings.
• $10 million a year to achieve meaningful results in key areas such as the economic status of women and combating violence against women and girls.
• Increase in the age limit to 71 from 69 for registered retirement savings plans and registered pensions.
• The public transit tax credit will be extended to new electronic fare products and weekly passes used on an ongoing basis.
• An additional supplement for low-income working Canadians with disabilities to promote workforce participation.
Housing
• $17.6 billion in gas tax and other base funding for municipalities.
• $300 million for the development of a housing market in First Nations communities.
National Anti-Drug Strategy
• Covers three priority areas:
o Combat illicit drug production
o Prevent illicit drug use ($10M)
o Treat illicit drug dependency ($32.2M)
• An investment of $63.8 million.
Correctional Services
• The system is facing a changing offender population, including, inmates with mental health and substance abuse problems.
• Commitment to review operations to enhance public safety.
• Pending the results of the review, CSC will receive $102 million over two years deal with issues including beginning work towards implementing a mental health strategy for offenders.
Other
• Eliminating the capital gains tax for charitable donations of publicly-listed securities to private foundations.
Mental Health Commission
• $10 million over two years and $15 million a year thereafter to establish the Canadian Mental Health Commission, headed by Michael Kirby.
• $400 million for Canada Health Infoway to support the development of electronic health records.
• $22-million-per-year increase to the Canadian Institute for Health Information.
Income Security Elements
• A Working Income Tax Benefit of up to $1,000 per year for families or $500 for individuals will help people over the "welfare wall" and strengthen incentives to work for more than 1.2 million low-income Canadians.
• A new Registered Disability Savings Plan to help parents and others save money to care for children with severe disabilities.
• $10 million a year to expand the New Horizons for Seniors program, which will help prevent abuse and telemarketing fraud and to expand capital assistance for community buildings, equipment and furnishings.
• $10 million a year to achieve meaningful results in key areas such as the economic status of women and combating violence against women and girls.
• Increase in the age limit to 71 from 69 for registered retirement savings plans and registered pensions.
• The public transit tax credit will be extended to new electronic fare products and weekly passes used on an ongoing basis.
• An additional supplement for low-income working Canadians with disabilities to promote workforce participation.
Housing
• $17.6 billion in gas tax and other base funding for municipalities.
• $300 million for the development of a housing market in First Nations communities.
National Anti-Drug Strategy
• Covers three priority areas:
o Combat illicit drug production
o Prevent illicit drug use ($10M)
o Treat illicit drug dependency ($32.2M)
• An investment of $63.8 million.
Correctional Services
• The system is facing a changing offender population, including, inmates with mental health and substance abuse problems.
• Commitment to review operations to enhance public safety.
• Pending the results of the review, CSC will receive $102 million over two years deal with issues including beginning work towards implementing a mental health strategy for offenders.
Other
• Eliminating the capital gains tax for charitable donations of publicly-listed securities to private foundations.
Monday, February 05, 2007
Nature/nurture: The stigma of inheritance and the inheritance of stigma
For many who develop it, mental illness comes from a combination of factors. In my situation, I believe that genetics played a role. Knowing one’s family medical history is extremely important for the prevention and early treatment of a variety of health conditions. However, oftentimes mental illness isn’t discussed between family members. I call this phenomenon the “silent stigma”. The reasons for this are namely fear and weakness, or a combination of the two. A family member may fear for the state of their loved one or fear for developing an illness themselves.
Secondly and sometimes concurrently, a family member may believe mental illness is a sign of weakness. For those in the boomer generation who some of which may hold this stigma, I don’t blame them a great deal. They were raised in a time when those with mental illness were locked away. This segregation only perpetuated stigma. It was a societal problem.
Now, these folks are not off the hook. They have lots of learning to do, regardless of the level of stigma they may hold (if they hold one - but I argue everyone does to a degree - even myself somewhat). With the development of technology and research over the past couple decades, we have come a long way in understanding mental illness. Yet, there is so much more to discover. The mental health field is severely underfunded. No matter where we are on this path, responsibility lies with our elders in teaching our younger generations about mental illness – preventing today’s youth from developing the stigma that once allowed for the rejection of the mentally ill.
Contrary to the silent stigma, there are families where mental illness happens to be mentioned in conversation. However, stigma may be prevalent in attached another form: humour. It is often used to make light of or “shrug off” the significance of mental illness in the family. Terms like “crazy Aunt so and so”, for example, are used frequently. Mental illness is seen as a weakness and something that perhaps is avoidable. It's as though the family member is seen as provoking their illness on purpose.
With early intervention and proper treatment, many people have the opportunity to lessen the severity of their mental illness. Although some people may try their hardest to keep healthy to prevent illness, in general, they can still develop it. Genetics could be at play as well as other factors. However, genetics is one factor that cannot be manipulated, at least not post-natally.
I promised in my previous post to discuss some of my own experiences with mental illness. I’d like to tell you a bit about my family history. I was surprised to find out recently how mental illness has affected my family. On one side of my family, I have some great aunts and uncles who have/had severe mental illness: schizophrenia, depression, anxiety disorders, and perhaps alcoholism.
One of my great uncles, Chris Gage, was an extraordinary jazz pianist who lived and performed in Vancouver in the 50s and 60s. I had heard little about him growing up, only that he was a musician. Through my own exploration, I found that my great uncle was so good that Oscar Peterson once publicly stated that Chris Gage was the only pianist he feared.
In 1965 Chris Gage died from suicide. The Vancouver jazz scene died thereafter for a long time.
Don Thompson, one of Chris' bandmates who went on to lead a successful music career, produced a DVD for me with clips from old television programmes that showcased the band. I have chosen to educate my [elder and younger] family members about Chris’ life and to appreciate his work in the Canadian jazz scene. Although we never met, I miss him.
Secondly and sometimes concurrently, a family member may believe mental illness is a sign of weakness. For those in the boomer generation who some of which may hold this stigma, I don’t blame them a great deal. They were raised in a time when those with mental illness were locked away. This segregation only perpetuated stigma. It was a societal problem.
Now, these folks are not off the hook. They have lots of learning to do, regardless of the level of stigma they may hold (if they hold one - but I argue everyone does to a degree - even myself somewhat). With the development of technology and research over the past couple decades, we have come a long way in understanding mental illness. Yet, there is so much more to discover. The mental health field is severely underfunded. No matter where we are on this path, responsibility lies with our elders in teaching our younger generations about mental illness – preventing today’s youth from developing the stigma that once allowed for the rejection of the mentally ill.
Contrary to the silent stigma, there are families where mental illness happens to be mentioned in conversation. However, stigma may be prevalent in attached another form: humour. It is often used to make light of or “shrug off” the significance of mental illness in the family. Terms like “crazy Aunt so and so”, for example, are used frequently. Mental illness is seen as a weakness and something that perhaps is avoidable. It's as though the family member is seen as provoking their illness on purpose.
With early intervention and proper treatment, many people have the opportunity to lessen the severity of their mental illness. Although some people may try their hardest to keep healthy to prevent illness, in general, they can still develop it. Genetics could be at play as well as other factors. However, genetics is one factor that cannot be manipulated, at least not post-natally.
I promised in my previous post to discuss some of my own experiences with mental illness. I’d like to tell you a bit about my family history. I was surprised to find out recently how mental illness has affected my family. On one side of my family, I have some great aunts and uncles who have/had severe mental illness: schizophrenia, depression, anxiety disorders, and perhaps alcoholism.
One of my great uncles, Chris Gage, was an extraordinary jazz pianist who lived and performed in Vancouver in the 50s and 60s. I had heard little about him growing up, only that he was a musician. Through my own exploration, I found that my great uncle was so good that Oscar Peterson once publicly stated that Chris Gage was the only pianist he feared.
In 1965 Chris Gage died from suicide. The Vancouver jazz scene died thereafter for a long time.
Don Thompson, one of Chris' bandmates who went on to lead a successful music career, produced a DVD for me with clips from old television programmes that showcased the band. I have chosen to educate my [elder and younger] family members about Chris’ life and to appreciate his work in the Canadian jazz scene. Although we never met, I miss him.
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Stand Up for Mental Health, It's Funny
Last Thursday I attended Stand Up for Mental Health, a comedy fundraiser for lessening public stigma around mental illness. The project was started by David Granirer, a B.C. counsellor, writer, and stand-up comic. The event included local stand-up comics, mostly new to the scene, who are past or current consumers of the mental health system. According to Granirer:
“We use comedy give consumers a voice and help reduce the stigma around mental illness,” says Granirer. The idea is that laughing at our setbacks raises us above them. It makes people go from despair to hope, and hope is crucial to anyone struggling with adversity. Studies prove that hopeful people are more resilient and also tend to live longer, healthier lives.”
Eight courageous comics took to the stage, some for their debut. The program is already having success in Vancouver and Toronto and now gaining momentum in Ottawa. David is looking for volunteers, both on stage and behind the scenes to help out. Of course, financial donations are also appreciated.
Thursday’s event also happened to be filmed by CBC’s Passionate Eye and will be featured early 2007 as a documentary entitled Cracking Up. Outstanding Canuck comedians Mary Walsh and Mike MacDonald were part of the show. It was fascinating to hear their personal struggles with addiction and depression, respectively.
David Granirer also has a book out called The Happy Neurotic, How Fear and Angst Can Lead to Happiness and Success (Warwick Publishing, 2007). I am in the middle of it now – so I’ll get back to you soon with a full review. However, so far it’s great!
To get in touch with Ottawa’s Coordinator of Stand Up for Mental Health, Heather Bruce, call 613-722-2540 or email heather@standupformentalhealth.com.
“We use comedy give consumers a voice and help reduce the stigma around mental illness,” says Granirer. The idea is that laughing at our setbacks raises us above them. It makes people go from despair to hope, and hope is crucial to anyone struggling with adversity. Studies prove that hopeful people are more resilient and also tend to live longer, healthier lives.”
Eight courageous comics took to the stage, some for their debut. The program is already having success in Vancouver and Toronto and now gaining momentum in Ottawa. David is looking for volunteers, both on stage and behind the scenes to help out. Of course, financial donations are also appreciated.
Thursday’s event also happened to be filmed by CBC’s Passionate Eye and will be featured early 2007 as a documentary entitled Cracking Up. Outstanding Canuck comedians Mary Walsh and Mike MacDonald were part of the show. It was fascinating to hear their personal struggles with addiction and depression, respectively.
David Granirer also has a book out called The Happy Neurotic, How Fear and Angst Can Lead to Happiness and Success (Warwick Publishing, 2007). I am in the middle of it now – so I’ll get back to you soon with a full review. However, so far it’s great!
To get in touch with Ottawa’s Coordinator of Stand Up for Mental Health, Heather Bruce, call 613-722-2540 or email heather@standupformentalhealth.com.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Discarded by society
Last week I reluctantly approached a woman on the street to ask about her story. She said she was only 21 years old and working the corner for money to pay her pimp.
I have seen many prostitutes walking the streets Ottawa, but this case was somewhat exceptional since the woman was quite young - although I’m sure there are some in their teens doing the same. However, this story was personally touching because I had actually intercepted this young woman from taking a trick. I felt empowered in my own little way. As she was approaching the vehicle / john I called to her. She chose to walk over to me instead. I found this interesting – either she was scared I would call the authorities or she was opening herself up to receive help. Either way, I appreciated her choice.
I asked her name and she told it to me. She asked me for spare change. I said no. However, I asked repeatedly how I could help her. She said she was fine. Clearly she wasn’t. She smelled of booze and appeared to be using other substances, likely crack or heroin. Her hair was mangled and her eyes aged at least 20 years. Essentially, this 21 year old looked nearly twice her age. She looked horrible.
I found out where she was from and called the local authorities. As it turns out, they had been looking for her. She had skipped a court date back “home”. I thought, “maybe someone will care enough to come save her.” Here’s hoping.
The problem lies herein: no one seems to care where she is or what she is doing other than the police. The impression they gave me was that she slipped through the cracks. Why would her town, my neighbourhood, my city, and my province allow such a thing to happen?
Where are her parents…siblings…friends? Does ANYONE care?
Whether the prostitution led to the drugs or vice versa, there is a nasty addiction ravishing through this young girl’s body. By the looks of her, she needs a lot of help.
How can we prevent our children from ending up this way? There are surely many long-winded answers to this. But, I would like to hear what you think. Please post a comment with your advice.
I have seen many prostitutes walking the streets Ottawa, but this case was somewhat exceptional since the woman was quite young - although I’m sure there are some in their teens doing the same. However, this story was personally touching because I had actually intercepted this young woman from taking a trick. I felt empowered in my own little way. As she was approaching the vehicle / john I called to her. She chose to walk over to me instead. I found this interesting – either she was scared I would call the authorities or she was opening herself up to receive help. Either way, I appreciated her choice.
I asked her name and she told it to me. She asked me for spare change. I said no. However, I asked repeatedly how I could help her. She said she was fine. Clearly she wasn’t. She smelled of booze and appeared to be using other substances, likely crack or heroin. Her hair was mangled and her eyes aged at least 20 years. Essentially, this 21 year old looked nearly twice her age. She looked horrible.
I found out where she was from and called the local authorities. As it turns out, they had been looking for her. She had skipped a court date back “home”. I thought, “maybe someone will care enough to come save her.” Here’s hoping.
The problem lies herein: no one seems to care where she is or what she is doing other than the police. The impression they gave me was that she slipped through the cracks. Why would her town, my neighbourhood, my city, and my province allow such a thing to happen?
Where are her parents…siblings…friends? Does ANYONE care?
Whether the prostitution led to the drugs or vice versa, there is a nasty addiction ravishing through this young girl’s body. By the looks of her, she needs a lot of help.
How can we prevent our children from ending up this way? There are surely many long-winded answers to this. But, I would like to hear what you think. Please post a comment with your advice.
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