Obviously, I've been inactive in posting for 2 months. In part, this was because I was undergoing psychiatric evaluation and wanted to wait until the assessment was complete. The words "psychiatric evaluation" may scare some people. That's normal, I suppose, but not necessarily right in my opinion. Hopefully, this will change over time.
For the record, I am completely fine - very healthy. I was asked by my GP last fall if I'd ever seen a psychiatrist. While I had been diagnosed with depression previously (I am not depressed now), I'd always been curious about my anxiety condition. I was quite sick 4 years ago and had not received a detailed diagnosis. I literally jumped at the offer to see the psychiatrist. I think I made a positive choice in learning more about my body, my mind, and myself.
As it turns out, what I've been living with for years is Panic Disorder (with mild agoraphobia). I'd rather call it a condition and not a disorder - but I'm not ashamed to live with it. In an acute state it can make life quite disorderly. However, when it's under control, like in my situation, I can live a very good life. I think the more people who talk about mental illness, the faster we can debunk the stigma surrounding it. So, I am not worried about telling the world.
Below you'll find a definition of Panic Disorder from the Canadian Mental Health Association.
---
Fear is a natural, instinctive reaction to dangerous situations. It is what causes us to escape from a burning building. A sudden rush of fear protects us, by alerting us to danger and stimulating adrenaline so that we think and move more rapidly than usual. But for people with phobias or panic disorder, fear is an overwhelming and unwelcome feature of their daily lives. They are struck by fears which they know are irrational and illogical, yet which are so powerful and unpredictable that they drastically change their lives to avoid feared situations.
Phobias and panic disorder are anxiety disorders, which are among the most common of mental health problems. In fact, it is estimated that 1 in 10 people are affected by anxiety disorders. These conditions are medical disorders, but they are often mistaken for weakness or self-indulgence. Because of this common mistake and because of the stigma associated with mental illness, people with anxiety disorders are often misunderstood and neglected, by society and sometimes by health care professionals.
Treatment exists to help people with phobias and panic disorder, and research into new therapies and techniques continues. By learning more about these conditions, you can help remove the social stigma that prevents so many people from seeking help to cope with their illness.
It is estimated that some 2 million Canadians suffer from panic disorder. Of those who have sought treatment for their symptoms, approximately two-thirds are women. Panic disorder typically begins in a person's late teen years, or early 2Os, but children are known to suffer from the disorder. Research is discovering more information about genetic causes of panic disorder.
Agoraphobia frequently accompanies panic disorder. This is the fear of being in places or situations which would be difficult to escape from, or in which it would be difficult to find help, should a person suffer a panic attack.
Panic Disorder without Agoraphobia - Panic attacks are terrifying episodes during which the person is convinced they are about to die or collapse. Without warning, an individual is suddenly overwhelmed by emotional and physical sensations that signal imminent death. These can include heart palpitations, choking, nausea, faintness, dizziness, chest pain and sweating.
Panic Disorder with Agoraphobia - Women are roughly twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with panic disorder with agoraphobia. This occurs when a person with panic disorder goes to great lengths to avoid situations which they feel they could not escape from or obtain help if struck by a panic attack. In some cases, people develop a fear of being alone. People with agoraphobia often avoid public transport or shopping malls, others refuse to leave their homes, sometimes for years at a time.
---
Not fun stuff. But, I made it through! I don't wish to go into further detail at this time. But, I will accept emails and do my best to respond to them individually if there are questions or comments.
My second reason for not posting of late is because I am focusing my energies on community volunteerism and other forms of advocacy, primarily "in person". I feel that it is the best way for me to help others at this point in my life. I may still post from time to time, but infrequently.
To all Ottawa readers, I encourage you to check out eMentalHealth.ca for your mental health resource needs. The site includes a wealth of information on housing and employment resources, counseling and crisis services, etc.
Thanks for reading,
Jennifer
Showing posts with label depression. Show all posts
Showing posts with label depression. Show all posts
Monday, February 11, 2008
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Way to go Ipsos-Reid - keep the surveys coming on mental health
New mental health survey sheds more light on impact of depression in the workplace
TORONTO, Nov. 19, 2007 /CNW/ - The Great-West Life Centre for Mental
Health in the Workplace (the Centre) today announced the release of a new
survey on the impact of depression in the workplace. The survey, commissioned
by the Centre and conducted by Ipsos-Reid this fall in association with the
Global Business and Economic Roundtable on Addiction and Mental Health, asked
managers and employees about their personal experiences with depression.
The Great-West Life Centre for Mental Health in the Workplace represents
a long term, public service commitment. The Centre has two objectives: to
increase knowledge and awareness, and to turn knowledge into action - to help
employers, managers and employees prevent and reduce the impacts of mental
health issues in the workplace.
"This study sheds additional light on the issue of depression in the
workplace and provides us with some revealing data on how managers and
employees view this serious issue," said Mike Schwartz, Executive Director of
the Centre. "This is the first research project to be commissioned by the
Centre, and consistent with our public service objective, we are pleased to
make the results available to the public and to the Mental Health Commission
of Canada."
The survey revealed that:
- 19% of Canadian workers missed three or more work days due to
depression, stress or anxiety in the last 12 months
- 64% of employees who had been diagnosed as clinically depressed or
believed that they suffered from depression felt that a specific
event in their life triggered the depression
- Only 18% of Canadian managers said they had received training to help
them identify and deal with employees who exhibit signs of depression
Schwartz encouraged Canadian employers, managers and employees to take
time to read and understand the survey, and to become engaged in the issue of
mental health.
"The issue of mental health is complex and touches many lives," said
Schwartz. "By becoming informed and engaged, Canadian employers, managers and
employees can take steps today to better address workplace mental health
issues."
About the Great-West Life Centre for Mental Health in the Workplace
Established in June 2007, the Great-West Life Centre for Mental Health in
the Workplace brings a unique focus to an important issue for Canadian
employers, managers, and employees. Focused specifically on the workplace, the
Centre is working to increase awareness and understanding and to help
employers take concrete steps to prevent and reduce employee mental health
issues. The Centre is a long-term, public service commitment to this very
important social and economic issue.
Results of the Ipsos-Reid survey will be available shortly on the
Centre's website at www.greatwestlife.com/centreformentalhealth.
About Great-West Life
Founded in Winnipeg in 1891, The Great-West Life Assurance Company has
long been a leader in the group benefits marketplace. Great-West Life is a
member of the Power Financial Corporation group of companies.
For further information: Marlene Klassen, APR, Assistant Vice-President,
Communications Services, (204) 946-7705
TORONTO, Nov. 19, 2007 /CNW/ - The Great-West Life Centre for Mental
Health in the Workplace (the Centre) today announced the release of a new
survey on the impact of depression in the workplace. The survey, commissioned
by the Centre and conducted by Ipsos-Reid this fall in association with the
Global Business and Economic Roundtable on Addiction and Mental Health, asked
managers and employees about their personal experiences with depression.
The Great-West Life Centre for Mental Health in the Workplace represents
a long term, public service commitment. The Centre has two objectives: to
increase knowledge and awareness, and to turn knowledge into action - to help
employers, managers and employees prevent and reduce the impacts of mental
health issues in the workplace.
"This study sheds additional light on the issue of depression in the
workplace and provides us with some revealing data on how managers and
employees view this serious issue," said Mike Schwartz, Executive Director of
the Centre. "This is the first research project to be commissioned by the
Centre, and consistent with our public service objective, we are pleased to
make the results available to the public and to the Mental Health Commission
of Canada."
The survey revealed that:
- 19% of Canadian workers missed three or more work days due to
depression, stress or anxiety in the last 12 months
- 64% of employees who had been diagnosed as clinically depressed or
believed that they suffered from depression felt that a specific
event in their life triggered the depression
- Only 18% of Canadian managers said they had received training to help
them identify and deal with employees who exhibit signs of depression
Schwartz encouraged Canadian employers, managers and employees to take
time to read and understand the survey, and to become engaged in the issue of
mental health.
"The issue of mental health is complex and touches many lives," said
Schwartz. "By becoming informed and engaged, Canadian employers, managers and
employees can take steps today to better address workplace mental health
issues."
About the Great-West Life Centre for Mental Health in the Workplace
Established in June 2007, the Great-West Life Centre for Mental Health in
the Workplace brings a unique focus to an important issue for Canadian
employers, managers, and employees. Focused specifically on the workplace, the
Centre is working to increase awareness and understanding and to help
employers take concrete steps to prevent and reduce employee mental health
issues. The Centre is a long-term, public service commitment to this very
important social and economic issue.
Results of the Ipsos-Reid survey will be available shortly on the
Centre's website at www.greatwestlife.com/centreformentalhealth.
About Great-West Life
Founded in Winnipeg in 1891, The Great-West Life Assurance Company has
long been a leader in the group benefits marketplace. Great-West Life is a
member of the Power Financial Corporation group of companies.
For further information: Marlene Klassen, APR, Assistant Vice-President,
Communications Services, (204) 946-7705
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Mood Disorders Association of Ontario: Inspiration Awards
Please nominate someone who has made a difference in your life! From MDAO:
In our journey through mood disorders, we know there are many inspirational people who, through their love, caring, and support inspire us.
The MDAO Heart Inspiration Award is awarded to an individual who has given exceptional support as a caregiver, a loved one, a friend, a co-worker. They have put their Heart and soul into a caring relationship to help someone through the worst of times.
MDAO is seeking nominations for such an extraordinary individual. On February 9 2008, one individual will be selected by a panel of judges to receive this award. Please use the attached nomination form and tell us how they have “touched your Heart.”
In our journey through mood disorders, we know there are many inspirational people who, through their love, caring, and support inspire us.
The MDAO Heart Inspiration Award is awarded to an individual who has given exceptional support as a caregiver, a loved one, a friend, a co-worker. They have put their Heart and soul into a caring relationship to help someone through the worst of times.
MDAO is seeking nominations for such an extraordinary individual. On February 9 2008, one individual will be selected by a panel of judges to receive this award. Please use the attached nomination form and tell us how they have “touched your Heart.”
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
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
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)
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Allergies and mental health
I've had a ragweed allergy every August and September for the last few years. It seems to get worse each year and why it only appeared in my 20s is beyond me. Anyway, I do take an antihistamine to prevent the sneezing, etc. However, I am having difficulty with the fatigue-lethargy-malaise combo. Many of you with allergies know what I'm talking about. How do you cope? For those of you who experience depression or other mental health issues how do you cope when you're depressed during allergy season?
This article is quite relevant:
Psychiatric News September 20, 2002
Volume 37 Number 18
© 2002 American Psychiatric Association
p. 23
Clinical & Research News
Ragweed Allergy May Trigger Depression, Malaise
Joan Arehart-Treichel
Sneezing, a runny or congested nose, and swollen, itchy eyes are the well-known symptoms of ragweed allergy. And to those should be added malaise and depression, at least for some ragweed sufferers.
August and September are rarely a favorite time of year for the some 36 million Americans who suffer from ragweed allergies. During these weeks, ragweed pollen moves their immune systems into high gear and leads to sneezing, a runny or congested nose, and swollen, itchy eyes.
Many of these ragweed sufferers may also experience a sense of malaise and even depression, suggests a study reported in the July-August Psychosomatic Medicine.
The study was conducted by Paul Marshall, Ph.D., director of the neuropsychology section and the department of psychiatry at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis; Christine O’Hara, R.N., a research nurse coordinator with the Hennepin County Medical Center; and Paul Steinberg, M.D., director of the division of allergy and immunology at Bassett Healthcare in Cooperstown, N.Y.
Allergists have occasionally reported that persons with ragweed allergies may feel fatigued and mentally "down" during ragweed season. Two large epidemiological studies have also suggested an intriguing link between ragweed allergy and depression.
In one study, of some 700 randomly selected children, those with hay fever were found to be twice as likely to develop a major depressive episode over the next few years than those without hay fever. In the other, of approximately 7,000 adults, those with hay fever were twice as likely to have been diagnosed with major depression within the previous year than those without hay fever.
So Marshall and his coworkers set out to determine whether there is truly a connection between ragweed allergy and fatigue or between ragweed allergy and depression.
They recruited 57 subjects who were either allergic to ragweed or served as controls. Both allergic and control subjects were similar with respect to age, sex, intelligence, and years of education. None was preselected because of complaints about fatigue or depression. They then tested the subjects for fatigue and depression during ragweed season 1996, winter 1997, ragweed season 1997, and ragweed season 1998.
During the testing periods, subjects filled out the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory, a 20-item, self-report instrument that measured both mental and physical fatigue. They also rated their moods with the Positive Affect Negative Affect Scales, which measured positive mood states such as high energy and full concentration, and negative mood states such as sadness and lethargy. Allergy subjects used no allergy medications to avoid confounding test results. Findings for the allergy subjects per season were compared, as were findings for control subjects per season.
Allergy subjects, the researchers found, reported more mental and motivational fatigue, but not more physical fatigue, during ragweed season than in winter, and the differences were statistically significant. These subjects also reported statistically significant changes in mood between ragweed season and winter, their moods being more negative during the former.
As for controls, there was no statistically significant difference between their mental and physical energy levels in ragweed season and in winter. The same held true for their moods.
Several hypotheses might explain why ragweed sufferers endure more negative moods during allergy season. One possibility, of course, is that people who have allergies to ragweed feel mentally depleted because of the physical suffering that their allergies impose on them. Another is that their mental distress comes from allergy-induced sleep loss. And yet a third explanation—the one Marshall and his colleagues favor since ragweed allergy seems to sap mental but not physical energy—is that ragweed allergy provokes its negative mental effects by acting directly on the brain.
For instance, as the researchers pointed out in their study report, ragweed is known to be capable of forcing nose and lung cells to release cytokines—little proteins that play a role in immune responses. Severely depressed patients have been found to have higher concentrations of such cytokines in their cerebrospinal fluid.
Thus, ragweed might prompt, in persons allergic to it, the release of cytokines from lung cells. The cytokines in the lung cells might then excite the vagus nerve, which innervates the lungs, and the excited vagus nerve might then signal the brain, thereby unleashing malaise and depression.
The study was partly funded by Pfizer Inc.
An abstract of the study, "Effects of Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis on Fatigue Levels and Mood," can be accessed at www.psychosomaticmedicine.org by clicking on "Search an Issue from the Archive" and then the "July-August 2002 issue." {blacksquare}
This article is quite relevant:
Psychiatric News September 20, 2002
Volume 37 Number 18
© 2002 American Psychiatric Association
p. 23
Clinical & Research News
Ragweed Allergy May Trigger Depression, Malaise
Joan Arehart-Treichel
Sneezing, a runny or congested nose, and swollen, itchy eyes are the well-known symptoms of ragweed allergy. And to those should be added malaise and depression, at least for some ragweed sufferers.
August and September are rarely a favorite time of year for the some 36 million Americans who suffer from ragweed allergies. During these weeks, ragweed pollen moves their immune systems into high gear and leads to sneezing, a runny or congested nose, and swollen, itchy eyes.
Many of these ragweed sufferers may also experience a sense of malaise and even depression, suggests a study reported in the July-August Psychosomatic Medicine.
The study was conducted by Paul Marshall, Ph.D., director of the neuropsychology section and the department of psychiatry at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis; Christine O’Hara, R.N., a research nurse coordinator with the Hennepin County Medical Center; and Paul Steinberg, M.D., director of the division of allergy and immunology at Bassett Healthcare in Cooperstown, N.Y.
Allergists have occasionally reported that persons with ragweed allergies may feel fatigued and mentally "down" during ragweed season. Two large epidemiological studies have also suggested an intriguing link between ragweed allergy and depression.
In one study, of some 700 randomly selected children, those with hay fever were found to be twice as likely to develop a major depressive episode over the next few years than those without hay fever. In the other, of approximately 7,000 adults, those with hay fever were twice as likely to have been diagnosed with major depression within the previous year than those without hay fever.
So Marshall and his coworkers set out to determine whether there is truly a connection between ragweed allergy and fatigue or between ragweed allergy and depression.
They recruited 57 subjects who were either allergic to ragweed or served as controls. Both allergic and control subjects were similar with respect to age, sex, intelligence, and years of education. None was preselected because of complaints about fatigue or depression. They then tested the subjects for fatigue and depression during ragweed season 1996, winter 1997, ragweed season 1997, and ragweed season 1998.
During the testing periods, subjects filled out the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory, a 20-item, self-report instrument that measured both mental and physical fatigue. They also rated their moods with the Positive Affect Negative Affect Scales, which measured positive mood states such as high energy and full concentration, and negative mood states such as sadness and lethargy. Allergy subjects used no allergy medications to avoid confounding test results. Findings for the allergy subjects per season were compared, as were findings for control subjects per season.
Allergy subjects, the researchers found, reported more mental and motivational fatigue, but not more physical fatigue, during ragweed season than in winter, and the differences were statistically significant. These subjects also reported statistically significant changes in mood between ragweed season and winter, their moods being more negative during the former.
As for controls, there was no statistically significant difference between their mental and physical energy levels in ragweed season and in winter. The same held true for their moods.
Several hypotheses might explain why ragweed sufferers endure more negative moods during allergy season. One possibility, of course, is that people who have allergies to ragweed feel mentally depleted because of the physical suffering that their allergies impose on them. Another is that their mental distress comes from allergy-induced sleep loss. And yet a third explanation—the one Marshall and his colleagues favor since ragweed allergy seems to sap mental but not physical energy—is that ragweed allergy provokes its negative mental effects by acting directly on the brain.
For instance, as the researchers pointed out in their study report, ragweed is known to be capable of forcing nose and lung cells to release cytokines—little proteins that play a role in immune responses. Severely depressed patients have been found to have higher concentrations of such cytokines in their cerebrospinal fluid.
Thus, ragweed might prompt, in persons allergic to it, the release of cytokines from lung cells. The cytokines in the lung cells might then excite the vagus nerve, which innervates the lungs, and the excited vagus nerve might then signal the brain, thereby unleashing malaise and depression.
The study was partly funded by Pfizer Inc.
An abstract of the study, "Effects of Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis on Fatigue Levels and Mood," can be accessed at www.psychosomaticmedicine.org by clicking on "Search an Issue from the Archive" and then the "July-August 2002 issue." {blacksquare}
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Canada's public service is depressed
Number of depressed workers claiming disability doubles in a decade
Don Butler
The Ottawa Citizen
Depressed and anxious public servants comprise by far the largest group of federal employees on disability insurance. And their ranks have expanded rapidly since the early 1990s.
The information appears in a major federal study of public service compensation that calls for sweeping changes to benefit programs for government workers.
The study was posted without fanfare on Treasury Board's website last week.
According to the study, about 4.3 per cent of the federal government's 200,000 unionized workers -- nearly 8,500 in total -- were on disability in 2002.
Though that proportion hasn't changed markedly since the mid-1990s, the number of public servants citing disabling depression and anxiety nearly doubled to more than 44 per cent in 2002 from 23.7 in 1991.
That's far and away the largest trigger for disability claims by federal government workers. Cancer, at 14.2 per cent, is next.
The government's 40,000 or so managers and non-unionized workers make proportionately fewer disability claims than their unionized colleagues. In 2002, just 2.8 per cent were collecting disability insurance. But fully 58 per cent of them cited "mental/nervous" afflictions in 2002, up from 44 per cent in 1992.
For the rest of this story see www.ottawacitizen.com.
*****
While I worked for the public service for only 2 years I knew a few people who took stress leave in my department. In fact, it was during my time in the public service that my own mental illness progressed rapidly. At the end of my stint in the public service I had what some would call a nervous breakdown.
Note that I am not suggesting that working for the public service caused me to become sick. It was a combination of many factors. However, I can say with certainty that one department in which I worked was not conducive to good mental health. At the time, it wasn't a good fit for me. Nonetheless, I managed to produce excellent work during my time there and I received positive reviews by my supervisors.
For the most part, I enjoyed my work experience. I learned tons and was paid well considering I started as a student. I also met some great people who are still friends today. There were just certain frustrations with working for the public services that I have not experienced with the same severity elsewhere.
Out of respect for my former colleagues and government employer I would rather not go into detail about the negatives here. If you have questions, please email me.
Don Butler
The Ottawa Citizen
Depressed and anxious public servants comprise by far the largest group of federal employees on disability insurance. And their ranks have expanded rapidly since the early 1990s.
The information appears in a major federal study of public service compensation that calls for sweeping changes to benefit programs for government workers.
The study was posted without fanfare on Treasury Board's website last week.
According to the study, about 4.3 per cent of the federal government's 200,000 unionized workers -- nearly 8,500 in total -- were on disability in 2002.
Though that proportion hasn't changed markedly since the mid-1990s, the number of public servants citing disabling depression and anxiety nearly doubled to more than 44 per cent in 2002 from 23.7 in 1991.
That's far and away the largest trigger for disability claims by federal government workers. Cancer, at 14.2 per cent, is next.
The government's 40,000 or so managers and non-unionized workers make proportionately fewer disability claims than their unionized colleagues. In 2002, just 2.8 per cent were collecting disability insurance. But fully 58 per cent of them cited "mental/nervous" afflictions in 2002, up from 44 per cent in 1992.
For the rest of this story see www.ottawacitizen.com.
*****
While I worked for the public service for only 2 years I knew a few people who took stress leave in my department. In fact, it was during my time in the public service that my own mental illness progressed rapidly. At the end of my stint in the public service I had what some would call a nervous breakdown.
Note that I am not suggesting that working for the public service caused me to become sick. It was a combination of many factors. However, I can say with certainty that one department in which I worked was not conducive to good mental health. At the time, it wasn't a good fit for me. Nonetheless, I managed to produce excellent work during my time there and I received positive reviews by my supervisors.
For the most part, I enjoyed my work experience. I learned tons and was paid well considering I started as a student. I also met some great people who are still friends today. There were just certain frustrations with working for the public services that I have not experienced with the same severity elsewhere.
Out of respect for my former colleagues and government employer I would rather not go into detail about the negatives here. If you have questions, please email me.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Call for volunteers at Mood Disorders Ottawa
Mood Disorders Ottawa (MDO), formerly Depression and Manic Depression Mutual Support Group, is seeking volunteers to help with a variety of functions including fundraising, bookkeeping, and events organization. MDO welcomes volunteers with different backgrounds and skill sets including persons who live with or have recovered from mental illness. The organization is in need of new board members as well who will seek nomination at its June annual general meeting. Board members must be able to meet a time commitment of one evening meeting each month (usually the 1st Wednesday) as well as a couple hours extra per month for board work. Positions to be filled include the roles of President, Vice-President (x2), Treasurer, and others.
The Ottawa-based organization is also looking for speakers for it's upcoming 2007-2008 season. Health professionals are encouraged to share with MDO information relevant to the mood disorders community. These Information Meetings are open to the public and held on the 3rd Tuesday each month from 7:30-9:30 at the Southminster Church, 15 Aylmer Ave.
MDO offers mutual support discussion groups for people with mood disorders to share their experiences. As well, MDO offers a family support group in Orleans and is looking to establishing one downtown. A volunteer is needed to help develop this new group and to facilitate the sessions.
For any questions about MDO and to learn how you can volunteer, please contact Barbara, MDO President, at (613) 729-4831.
The Ottawa-based organization is also looking for speakers for it's upcoming 2007-2008 season. Health professionals are encouraged to share with MDO information relevant to the mood disorders community. These Information Meetings are open to the public and held on the 3rd Tuesday each month from 7:30-9:30 at the Southminster Church, 15 Aylmer Ave.
MDO offers mutual support discussion groups for people with mood disorders to share their experiences. As well, MDO offers a family support group in Orleans and is looking to establishing one downtown. A volunteer is needed to help develop this new group and to facilitate the sessions.
For any questions about MDO and to learn how you can volunteer, please contact Barbara, MDO President, at (613) 729-4831.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Welcoming the weather and excercise!
It's been awhile since my last post (apologies!). Many things have been happening in my life lately. Notably, I have been busy working and, in my spare time, enjoying the wonderful weather we've been getting in Ottawa - and it's about time we have some sunshine!
I know many people who deal with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) during the winter (depression due to lack of sunlight). I have had difficulty with this in the past. Fortunately, the last 2 winters have been warmer than usual so I was outdoors more often. Now, snowshoeing has turned to biking and hiking for me.
I can't highlight enough the importance of physical exercise for mental health. I'll admit that I'm a bit of a hypocrite: some days, it seems difficult to get motivated to exercise. Thus, I am trying harder to build exercise into my life in non-traditional ways. I have never been a big fan of going to the gym or doing routine workouts. As well, I need some mental training to increase motivation when I don't feel like exercising.
A friend of mine, Danielle Cardinal, runs FitFleet Fitness, a mobile personal training service. She has started a program called "Outside the Box" whereby participants can take part in a unique exercise experience once a month. The activities include things like tree climbing, spinning, BOSU Training, and kayaking, to name a few.
What do you do for exercise other than jogging or going to the gym? What do you do that you find particularly helpful for both mental health simultaneously?
I know many people who deal with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) during the winter (depression due to lack of sunlight). I have had difficulty with this in the past. Fortunately, the last 2 winters have been warmer than usual so I was outdoors more often. Now, snowshoeing has turned to biking and hiking for me.
I can't highlight enough the importance of physical exercise for mental health. I'll admit that I'm a bit of a hypocrite: some days, it seems difficult to get motivated to exercise. Thus, I am trying harder to build exercise into my life in non-traditional ways. I have never been a big fan of going to the gym or doing routine workouts. As well, I need some mental training to increase motivation when I don't feel like exercising.
A friend of mine, Danielle Cardinal, runs FitFleet Fitness, a mobile personal training service. She has started a program called "Outside the Box" whereby participants can take part in a unique exercise experience once a month. The activities include things like tree climbing, spinning, BOSU Training, and kayaking, to name a few.
What do you do for exercise other than jogging or going to the gym? What do you do that you find particularly helpful for both mental health simultaneously?
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Life after death: coping with bereavement
(article from the Public Health Agency of Canada)
When someone close to us dies, it can sometimes feel as if we'll never get over the loss. As much as death is a part of life for everyone, it is also one of the most difficult things to cope with. But getting through grief and being able to move on with life is essential to our mental health and well-being. Fortunately, there are reasonably predictable stages of grief.
An important thing to understand is that it is necessary to grieve a loss. It's tempting to try to find ways to step around grief, but the reality is you only get to the other side of grief by walking right through the middle of it.
The three stages of grieving
"You only get to the other side of grief by walking right through the middle of it."
Even though grief is a process everyone goes through, no two people go through it exactly the same way. The way you show grief may depend on your culture, and how much grief you feel can depend on your relationship with the person who died.
Children show and feel grief differently than adults do and they may also need help to understand death. Losing a spouse can involve many practical as well as emotional upheavals. Despite the diversity of how people experience grief, there are three basic stages of grieving, according to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), though you may go back and forth between them for a long time:
1. Shock
Some people will say they didn't even cry when someone they loved died. In fact, they might not have cried for days or weeks after. Shock and numbness are the typical immediate responses to the death of a loved one—even when the death was prepared for (because in reality, nothing can ever completely prepare you for the death of someone close to you). People who have been through this stage describe it as going through the motions, and it's a protective stage that helps a mourner get through the intensity and the busyness of the early post-death days. The numbness can last for weeks or even months.
2. Disorganization
After the numbness comes the emotion, and it can come in many shapes and forms: exhaustion, anxiety, sadness and weepiness, moodiness, depression, loss of control, feeling withdrawn. This can, and should be a time of coming to terms not only with the loss but also with the relationship you had with the person. This can be especially difficult if there were problems that had not been resolved before the death. You may experience some of these feelings for many months, and sometimes even for years.
3. Reorganization
The loss of someone you love is not something you ever get over entirely. But eventually, there will come a day when you do recognize yourself again—when you are out with friends and realize you've had a wonderful time, or when you notice that you are appreciating day-to-day activities again.
Illustration of a journal and pen
How to help yourself
There are some ways that you can support yourself during the process of grieving:
* Take care of your health. The stress response of losing someone you love may have an impact on your immune system. Make sure to eat well, keep up with regular exercise and get plenty of sleep.
* Don't be afraid to express how you feel by talking, crying, writing. Expressing feelings helps healing.
* Reach out to family and friends. Help others understand what you need.
* Avoid making major changes, at least for the first several months.
* Be patient with yourself and with the process. It takes time but life will get better.
If you feel you need more assistance, speak with your family doctor or other health professional. You can also contact the Canadian Mental Health Association location near you.
Grieving is natural and normal. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
Date published: March 1, 2007
BulletThis article was prepared by Toronto journalist Nora Underwood and reviewed by The Canadian Mental Health Association, the Canadian Health Network Mental Health Affiliate.
When someone close to us dies, it can sometimes feel as if we'll never get over the loss. As much as death is a part of life for everyone, it is also one of the most difficult things to cope with. But getting through grief and being able to move on with life is essential to our mental health and well-being. Fortunately, there are reasonably predictable stages of grief.
An important thing to understand is that it is necessary to grieve a loss. It's tempting to try to find ways to step around grief, but the reality is you only get to the other side of grief by walking right through the middle of it.
The three stages of grieving
"You only get to the other side of grief by walking right through the middle of it."
Even though grief is a process everyone goes through, no two people go through it exactly the same way. The way you show grief may depend on your culture, and how much grief you feel can depend on your relationship with the person who died.
Children show and feel grief differently than adults do and they may also need help to understand death. Losing a spouse can involve many practical as well as emotional upheavals. Despite the diversity of how people experience grief, there are three basic stages of grieving, according to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), though you may go back and forth between them for a long time:
1. Shock
Some people will say they didn't even cry when someone they loved died. In fact, they might not have cried for days or weeks after. Shock and numbness are the typical immediate responses to the death of a loved one—even when the death was prepared for (because in reality, nothing can ever completely prepare you for the death of someone close to you). People who have been through this stage describe it as going through the motions, and it's a protective stage that helps a mourner get through the intensity and the busyness of the early post-death days. The numbness can last for weeks or even months.
2. Disorganization
After the numbness comes the emotion, and it can come in many shapes and forms: exhaustion, anxiety, sadness and weepiness, moodiness, depression, loss of control, feeling withdrawn. This can, and should be a time of coming to terms not only with the loss but also with the relationship you had with the person. This can be especially difficult if there were problems that had not been resolved before the death. You may experience some of these feelings for many months, and sometimes even for years.
3. Reorganization
The loss of someone you love is not something you ever get over entirely. But eventually, there will come a day when you do recognize yourself again—when you are out with friends and realize you've had a wonderful time, or when you notice that you are appreciating day-to-day activities again.
Illustration of a journal and pen
How to help yourself
There are some ways that you can support yourself during the process of grieving:
* Take care of your health. The stress response of losing someone you love may have an impact on your immune system. Make sure to eat well, keep up with regular exercise and get plenty of sleep.
* Don't be afraid to express how you feel by talking, crying, writing. Expressing feelings helps healing.
* Reach out to family and friends. Help others understand what you need.
* Avoid making major changes, at least for the first several months.
* Be patient with yourself and with the process. It takes time but life will get better.
If you feel you need more assistance, speak with your family doctor or other health professional. You can also contact the Canadian Mental Health Association location near you.
Grieving is natural and normal. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
Date published: March 1, 2007
BulletThis article was prepared by Toronto journalist Nora Underwood and reviewed by The Canadian Mental Health Association, the Canadian Health Network Mental Health Affiliate.
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Joni Boon
Beautiful, intelligent, charismatic and creative. A teacher, wife, daughter, sister, and friend. Joni was truly a wonderful person.
Like most people, Joni got sick from time to time. She lived with bipolar disorder, a mental and physical illness, but was otherwise very healthy. Joni did everything she could to look after herself.
Unfortunately, bipolar disorder brought Joni into a deep depression – worse than anything she’d experienced before.
Some people say she took her own life. They’re wrong. She did not want to die. She loved life more than anything else. She wanted to live it, give it, and make it – she wanted children. But, mental illness took it all away.
Things I’ve learned from Joni:
*Mental illness is nothing to be ashamed about
*You are not your illness, it is only part of you
*Once you’ve been diagnosed with mental illness, you gain control and can learn how to live better
*If you have mental illness, research as much as you can about it
*Mental illness can be used as a tool for helping others. For example, Joni introduced me to Motherisk – a program at Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto where mothers-to-be learn about the risks associated with medications during pregnancy. I am currently participating in an SSRI study as part of the non-pregnant control group.
*Sadly, Joni’s death is proof that mental illness is very physical and kills 1000's of Canadians each year.
For Joni, please give to the Mood Disorders Association of Ontario or a mental health organization of your choice.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Ipsos Reid study on depression in the workplace released today
(statistical references from The Ottawa Citizen, February 15, 2007)
Overview
-Fourteen per cent of Canadian adults have been diagnosed with depression by a doctor, with a higher incidence in women (18 per cent) than men (11 per cent).
-Nearly three-quarters of those surveyed (72 per cent) know someone who has been diagnosed with depression.
-Eight in 10 Canadians said they believe depression is a "life-threatening illness," while just 24 per cent think depressed people could "just snap out of it if they really wanted to."
-Seventy-nine per cent of workers said they believe a person diagnosed with depression would keep the fact secret to avoid damaging their future opportunities at work, and nearly half believe someone missing work because of depression would be more likely "to get into trouble and maybe even fired."
-Eighty-eight per cent of Canadians believe CEOs should make helping employees with depression "a key human resources priority."
Shannon Proudfoot of The Ottawa Citizen interviewed Donna Hardaker, a community mental health analyst at the Ontario chapter of the Canadian Mental Health Association. Ms. Hardaker says workplaces are still "in the Dark Ages" in terms of dealing with depression. "When someone has depression, the symptoms co-workers see are behavioural," Ms. Hardaker says. "They don't see someone who needs to lie down, they don't see someone who has to go for chemotherapy treatment. Instead, they see someone who may be irritable, withdrawn, not meeting deadlines, blaming people for problems."
Why should employers care?
Hopefully, they care about the well-being of their employees, first of all. Secondly, mental illness costs Canadian businesses $33 billion a year in lost productivity (Global Business and Economic Roundtable on Addiction and Mental Health).
Employers need to take responsibility to help their employees both prevent and deal with mental illness. It can only lead to healthier, happier employees and a more productive workplace.
Some suggestions:
-Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
-Stress management workshops
-Adequate benefit coverage for professional counselling ($1000+ per year); psychologist visits are NOT covered by health care, at least not in the province of Ontario
-At least 2 weeks vacation time permitted annually; ensure your employees take advantage of it each year – this includes management
-Flexibility for employees to attend medical or psychological appointments during the day as often as deemed necessary by the health care professional; allowing the employee to undergo treatment as early as possible. This will reduce missed work hours and sick days in the long run.
-Modified work schedules for employees with persistent, but manageable, mental illness and for those who are re-entering the workforce after sick leave due to mental illness; in these cases a doctor’s note may provide proper instruction)
-Most importantly, the employer should be approachable and understanding
Mental Health Works is a great resource employers can visit for detailed information on how to recognize mental illness, talk with employees, and handle workplace situations that involve mental illness.
Overview
-Fourteen per cent of Canadian adults have been diagnosed with depression by a doctor, with a higher incidence in women (18 per cent) than men (11 per cent).
-Nearly three-quarters of those surveyed (72 per cent) know someone who has been diagnosed with depression.
-Eight in 10 Canadians said they believe depression is a "life-threatening illness," while just 24 per cent think depressed people could "just snap out of it if they really wanted to."
-Seventy-nine per cent of workers said they believe a person diagnosed with depression would keep the fact secret to avoid damaging their future opportunities at work, and nearly half believe someone missing work because of depression would be more likely "to get into trouble and maybe even fired."
-Eighty-eight per cent of Canadians believe CEOs should make helping employees with depression "a key human resources priority."
Shannon Proudfoot of The Ottawa Citizen interviewed Donna Hardaker, a community mental health analyst at the Ontario chapter of the Canadian Mental Health Association. Ms. Hardaker says workplaces are still "in the Dark Ages" in terms of dealing with depression. "When someone has depression, the symptoms co-workers see are behavioural," Ms. Hardaker says. "They don't see someone who needs to lie down, they don't see someone who has to go for chemotherapy treatment. Instead, they see someone who may be irritable, withdrawn, not meeting deadlines, blaming people for problems."
Why should employers care?
Hopefully, they care about the well-being of their employees, first of all. Secondly, mental illness costs Canadian businesses $33 billion a year in lost productivity (Global Business and Economic Roundtable on Addiction and Mental Health).
Employers need to take responsibility to help their employees both prevent and deal with mental illness. It can only lead to healthier, happier employees and a more productive workplace.
Some suggestions:
-Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
-Stress management workshops
-Adequate benefit coverage for professional counselling ($1000+ per year); psychologist visits are NOT covered by health care, at least not in the province of Ontario
-At least 2 weeks vacation time permitted annually; ensure your employees take advantage of it each year – this includes management
-Flexibility for employees to attend medical or psychological appointments during the day as often as deemed necessary by the health care professional; allowing the employee to undergo treatment as early as possible. This will reduce missed work hours and sick days in the long run.
-Modified work schedules for employees with persistent, but manageable, mental illness and for those who are re-entering the workforce after sick leave due to mental illness; in these cases a doctor’s note may provide proper instruction)
-Most importantly, the employer should be approachable and understanding
Mental Health Works is a great resource employers can visit for detailed information on how to recognize mental illness, talk with employees, and handle workplace situations that involve mental illness.
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, January 28, 2007
Local: Well done Heather Hennigar
Thank you Heather for your enlightening four-part piece, Diary of Depression, published in the Ottawa Citizen. The act of sharing your story provides hope to those who are suffering and promotes the de-stigmatization of mental illness. Well done!
Friday, January 19, 2007
News: A quicker cure for depression?
Instant relief from unrelenting depression may someday be just a pinprick away...according to a small study by the U.S. group National Institutes of Health.
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
News: One million adults depressed, 70% employed
Excerpt from CharityVillage.com
A study by Statistics Canada examined stress levels among the employed population, aged 18 to 75, and found that depression stands out as a major occupational health issue. Just over one million adults had experienced a major depressive episode in the year before the survey interview. Of these people, 7 in 10 were employed during that year. For workers of both sexes, high stress on and off the job was associated with depression. However, the mental health of male workers was more vulnerable to stress arising from the work environment. Men in high strain jobs were 2.5 times more likely than their counterparts in low strain jobs to have experienced depression; women were 1.6 times more likely. Male and female workers who considered most days to be quite a bit or extremely stressful were over three times as likely to have suffered a major depressive episode, compared with those who reported low levels of general stress. -- Report can be found at Statistics Canada
A study by Statistics Canada examined stress levels among the employed population, aged 18 to 75, and found that depression stands out as a major occupational health issue. Just over one million adults had experienced a major depressive episode in the year before the survey interview. Of these people, 7 in 10 were employed during that year. For workers of both sexes, high stress on and off the job was associated with depression. However, the mental health of male workers was more vulnerable to stress arising from the work environment. Men in high strain jobs were 2.5 times more likely than their counterparts in low strain jobs to have experienced depression; women were 1.6 times more likely. Male and female workers who considered most days to be quite a bit or extremely stressful were over three times as likely to have suffered a major depressive episode, compared with those who reported low levels of general stress. -- Report can be found at Statistics Canada
Friday, December 22, 2006
When shopping is stressful
Christmas holidays can be stressful! Whether you are hosting an event or traveling to one, there are so many things you need to think about. One of them is buying gifts. I find one of the most stressful events at this time of year is going to the shopping malls.
I have decided this year to avoid shopping malls as much as possible. The buildings are crowded and everyone seems rushed. It's not the type of atmosphere that gets me in the holiday mood.
I am not pessimistic, really. I just think that my mental health (and perhaps my wallet too) would benefit from removing myself from that environment. There are lots of great independent stores that I like to go to. I find I often receive better service from them, too.
We try to save ourselves money and find convenience in shopping at big-box stores and shopping malls when really they can be just plain stressful. It's quite the paradox.
Some of you are laughing right now because you either 1) did your shopping in August; or 2) did your shopping online. For those of you who haven't finished yours, if you want to avoid the mall, try some of your local family-run shops. You may be pleasantly surprised.
Please feel free to share your shopping experiences here. Do you prefer the mall? If you have problems shopping at this time of the year what do you do?
I have decided this year to avoid shopping malls as much as possible. The buildings are crowded and everyone seems rushed. It's not the type of atmosphere that gets me in the holiday mood.
I am not pessimistic, really. I just think that my mental health (and perhaps my wallet too) would benefit from removing myself from that environment. There are lots of great independent stores that I like to go to. I find I often receive better service from them, too.
We try to save ourselves money and find convenience in shopping at big-box stores and shopping malls when really they can be just plain stressful. It's quite the paradox.
Some of you are laughing right now because you either 1) did your shopping in August; or 2) did your shopping online. For those of you who haven't finished yours, if you want to avoid the mall, try some of your local family-run shops. You may be pleasantly surprised.
Please feel free to share your shopping experiences here. Do you prefer the mall? If you have problems shopping at this time of the year what do you do?
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.
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