On Tuesday, November 3rd, the CMHA's Participant Advosory Committee (PAC) hosted an educational forum, "Rising Up to End Stigma." We had two speakers for the event - Wayne Cho and Andrew Kellett. Wayne Cho, on his own initiative, and initially his own funds, ran across Canada to raise awareness about mental illness. He lives with anxiety and depression himself. His next major initiative is to run around the world. Anybody interested in becoming involved or learning more about that project can contact Wayne at wayne.cho@crosscanadarun.ca. The second speaker, Andrew Kellett, is a Mental Health Peer Advocate for Fraser Health. Andrew has worked as a Mental Health advocate for 14 years, and lives with, and has family with, mental health issues.

The two speakers complemented each other while, to a certain degree, coming at the issue of ending stigma from two different directions. Wayne came at it primarily from an individualistic perspective, while Andrew took a systemic discrimination approach. Wayne emphasized how important it is for individuals with mental illness to deal with their own internalized stigma that so often prevents us from 'outing' ourselves and admitting to our families, our employers, or to the broader community that we have mental illness. Those of us with mental illness often internalize the myths and stereotypes surrounding stigma. Wayne's message was that we need to feel good about ourselves first and deal with our own stigma, then move outward to educate the community and raise awareness.

During his run across Canada, Wayne had the opportunity to speak at various community centres and schools. In order to educate these audiences about mental illness he drew parallels with physical illnesses and took the approach that mental illnesses are just that - another form of illness, only they affect the brain.

Andrew approached ending stigma from a systemic perspective. He argued that rather than focusing on stigma, we need to view people with mental illness as a group that is discriminated against. From this perspective, people with mental illness are more likely to be viewed as a group whose human rights are being harmed by other social groups and society. He stated that it is difficult for people to take advantage of these human rights because of stigma and discrimination, and that the recognition of discrimination as a human rights violation must be expanded. It is also necessary to understand that mental illness can impact many parts of an individual's life, for example, meeting workplace attendance standards.

Andrew highlighted the role of the media in associating shame with mental illness, and that this needs to be targeted in any community education program. He stated that we need action plans from family, friends, and people with mental illness to correct the media image and push communities and society to correct this view of mental illness. In addition, education programs should target discrimination against people with mental illness. Andrew suggested that with increasing awareness, as with AIDS in the 1980s, the elimination of stigma and reduction of discrimination can come about.

Both Wayne and Andrew emphasized the need to implement educational programs in schools, starting at an early age, and the value of community, the medical profession, families and the media as significant tools to end stigma.

Following the speaker presentations a lively discussion ensued. In fact, discussion had to be cut off, and could have gone on much longer, clearly indicating that there is a broader need to have similar forums that continue the discussion around diminishing stigma and discrimination in relation to mental illness.

Suicide Awareness Day

Today, September 10th, is Suicide Awareness Day. This is a public education campaign sponsored by The International Assocation for Suicide Prevention and the World Health Organization. In Canada, the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention has planned several events, many of which you can participate in privately.

If you are concerned about a loved one, or are considering suicide yourself, please contact any of the following organizations:

• Suicide Prevention Counselling Line: 1-800-874-2423 (for residents of British Columbia)
• SAFER Counselling Services: 604-879-9251
• Centre for Suicide Prevention (National organization)

Other Community Events

Besides Mental Illness Awareness Week, which is coming up in October, another event which raises awareness and gives you a laugh is the Stand Up for Mental Health Comedy Fundraiser at the Yale on September 30th. Featuring Mike Macdonald and David Granirer and the Comics of SMH, tickets are $20 and can be ordered on the phone - 604-707-0483 or by contacting pat@standupformentalhealth.com.

Mental Illness Awareness Week

Oops.

Just two days into the new 'schedule' of blogging, and we're already behind! Still, we can always pick up and keep on going, which is exactly what we are going to do (and we're going to tie two topics from the schedule together).

Mental illness has too long been in the shadows, something that society has kept quiet about, and kept hidden out of shame and discomfort. That is why we are so pleased that it seems that recently it seems to have come out of the shadows somewhat, thanks to a great many programs, events, initiative, and, most importantly, people. We will talk more about these in future posts, but for today we'd like to point out that Mental Illness Awareness Week, a global event, has been in existence for almost 20 years in Canada. This event puts real faces to mental health issues in order to reduce stigma, and to illustrate that recovery is possible. In 2009 the week takes place from October 4th to 10th, with activities taking place around the country. In Vancouver, some of these events include depression, anxiety and risky drinking screenings as part of Beyond the Blues. Keep checking this blog or the official site for more information about specific dates and sites.

Another important organization that is working to raise awareness about mental health issues and reduce stigma is the Mental Health Commission of Canada. Canada is currently the only G8 nation without a mental health strategy, and the Commission is working to change that through various initiatives, including those that embrace the idea of a national partnership of people and organizations working to reduce stigma and improve the lives of those living with mental illnesses. For more information on how you can help, visit their site.

There is still much work to be done, but these are the events that present the faces of those living with mental illness, who may be our family, friends, neighbours, co-workers, us.

Finding Balance Between Work and Life

Fall always seems co-related with going back to school - new clothes, new backpacks, a fresh start and opportunity to learn something new. In the case of this blog, we are going to adopt our best "Back to School" attitude and try to post about mental health issues on a more regular basis.

We've decided to post blogs somewhat thematically, although we will likely also post on issues and events as they arise, and so that you might know what to expect, and when, here is a breakdown of themes by day:

Monday: Wellness
Tuesday: Employment and Volunteer Work
Wednesday: Mental Health News and In the Media
Thursday: Community Events
Friday: Recreation

And so, in keeping with Tuesday's theme, and tying in with the first day back after the Labour Day weekend, is today's blog entry on finding balance between work and life:

The Tuesday after the Labour Day long weekend represents, for many Canadians, an unofficial end of summer, and a return to the routine and responsibilities of work and school. And, quite often, this also means a return to the demands of a heavy worload, and the stress and anxiety this can cause.

Canadians face more demands than ever, from family, friends, community, in terms of their own health, and, especially, at work. Workers may find themselves, especially in the current economic climate, taking on many more responsibilities, increasing their workloads, neglecting other areas of their lives and increasing stress levels. While some forms of stress can positively assist with work output, it is important to distinguish between that form of stress and burnout. Some people are more likely to experience work-related burnout, and learning to recognize the signs may help counter the impact.

Work demands can also lead to an inbalance in other areas of life. Some of the signs of this inbalance include feeling overwhelmed, feeling guilty that you may be neglecting other areas, and difficulty concentrating. Check out the CMHA's Work/Life Balance Quiz to figure out whether you're balanced.

It is possible for you to take steps to improve your work/life balance. The CMHA offers tips that may not only help you improve the time you spend with family and friends, but may also help job efficacy. Try a Five Minute Stress Buster, or a Three Minute Stretch at your desk!

Despite, or perhaps because of, all the demands modern life makes, it is more important than ever to maintain a good balance between work and the rest of your life. And, in maintaining balance between the two, you may find improves your work life, and the rest of your life as well.

Community Bike Ride Part 2

Thank you to everyone who came out to support mental health by riding, volunteering or donating services on Sunday! It was a rainy ride, but everyone, through their assistance and support, help raise awareness of mental health issues.

A longer update, and photos, will appear on this page soon!

Community Bike Ride for Mental Health

Join us this Sunday for the first annual community bike ride to support mental health! It's a fantastic way to spend a Sunday of a long weekend - enjoying a fun bike ride and supporting a great cause.

The scenic route starts at Central Park in Burnaby, makes its way past Queen E. Park and Trout Lake in Vancouver, before returning to Central Park. Snacks and refreshments will be provided for all riders, and participants will also receive a commemorative t-shirt. There will also be entertainment and prizes!

In Vancouver and Burnaby, over 161, 000 of our family members, friends, neighbours and coworkers are affected by mental illness, and good mental health is important for all of us. The Canadian Mental Health Association runs programs, events, support groups and educational opportunities aimed at helping those with mental illness in their recovery, and in promoting mental health for everyone. Take part in the Community Bike Ride because not only are exercise and volunteering good for your mental health, but your participation raises awareness and makes a real difference in your community.

We can't wait to see you there on Sunday! For more information visit: http://www.cmhacommunityride.ca/

Strategic Planning - Part 2

SCORE ANALYSIS - Strength, Challenges. Opportunities, Risks and Environment

The board of directors met for 2 planning session in mid March to try and formulate the basis of our plan. We chose Debbi Salmonsen from Honu Consulting to lead us through the process.

For our next step in our planning process, we wanted to put all the information together into some usable information. In general we knew we wanted to build on our strengths, minimize our risks and grow the organization. So, our facilitator chose to lead us through a SCORE analysis done in a brainstorming session format.

Here are our top 3 in each category:

Strengths:

1. We have a variety of successful programs that are known for their innovation and impact.
2. Passionate leadership by board, staff, management and volunteers.
3. History of being responsible, accountable and effective.

Challenges:

1. Discontinuation over 3 years of United Way Member agency funding. We will require $140,000 of new donations.
2. Lack of awareness about our Branch programs
3. Growing need for services with a lack of new money to pay for them

Opportunities:

1. Continue to grow and develop our inCREDable program series (Child and Youth programs).
2. Develop cross cultural competencies to better serve Vancouver and Burnaby's diverse populations
3. Utilize new technologies (social media) to reach out to more people.

Risks:

1. Reliance on government funding during tough economic times
2. Lack of space in office to grow
3. Loosing staff and volunteers

Environment:

1. With the development of the Canadian Mental Health Commission there is a growing awareness in Canada about the need to fight stigma and support those living with a mental illness.
2. There is an economic recession and fundraising is more challenging.
3. 2009 election and 2010 Olympics are shining a spotlight on Vancouver.

Up next: our key priorities

National Memory Screening Day is June 23, 2009

Screening is an effective early intervention strategy for many health concerns. Tomorrow we urge you to take time to participate in National Memory Screening Day.

In the Greater Vancouver area, consider visiting a London Drugs location near you to participate in a brief 1:1 screening with a pharmacist.

If you are interested in learning more about dematia and caregiving, Beyond Memory , a great documentary produced by the Knowledge Network, is recommended viewing.

Bus beheader to remain in psychiatric care, board rules… (Winnipeg Free Press Published: Wednesday, June 03, 2009)

This headline and story from the Winnipeg Free Press is disturbing. I am disappointed that the media would perpetuate the impression that mental illness and violence automatically go hand –in –hand. I understand the desire to create snappy headlines but do not feel that this should take precedence over the use of respectful language. The stigma associated with mental illness is already profound and pervasive without referring to a person by an illness. It does not pay respect to any individual as a whole person, with both positive and negative attributes, to label them by one (admittedly horrific) action with the use of such a glib and tasteless phrase and , in cases like this, may prevent others from seeking help because the risk of stigma and misunderstanding may be increased. It is documented that approximately “one in five British Columbians is living with some form of mental disorder or other, but fewer than a third will ever get treatment…not due to the lack of mental health resources or effective treatments, but too often because people fear being labeled according to age old stereotypes of people with mental health problems.”

We would not think of referring to a person as cancerous – just think of the image that brings to mind. Yet, again and again, we are bombarded with public examples of this misuse of language associated with mental health concerns, and for that matter, other social issues that make us uncomfortable. The term ‘bus beheader’ in a headline is reductive and dismissive towards the lives of both men involved in the tragedy of that night last year. What happened was terrible and tragic, but also anomalous – the result of lack of better services for those with mental illness, of better understanding in general about mental illness, and a tragic illustration of how stigma has real impact on lives.

I am pleased that the The Mental Health Commission of Canada has recently begun a 10-year Anti-stigma / Anti-discrimination Initiative. I would urge you to take a few moments to check out their website and to help shape a positive change for those Canadians living with mental illness and those who love them.

The Cross Canada Run - Wayne Cho over 8000 km of Hope

Wayne Cho began running across Canada (East to West) on May 23, 2008. This week he arrived in Vancouver.

Wayne is running to raise awareness of anxiety and depression. Each day he is breaking down the stigma one foot in front of the other at a time.

Today Wayne came and met with some staff at CMHA VB Branch. Tonight he will meet some participants of our Chinese Mental Health Promotion Program. As I felt this afternoon, they will be impressed, inspired and awed by this amazing young man.

Wayne, speaks with such clarity and passion about facing your fears and just trying your best. He believes in the power that is in all of us and our ability to do great things. His accomplishment is an example.

I want to recommend that everyone take some time and read Wayne's blog. It is a rare and wonderful look at Canada, Canadians and the power to change minds.

Thanks Wayne.

Strategic Planning - Part 1

Strategic Planning begins by trying to get as many voices as possible to share their views about the organization.

This process can be long and extensive or more brief and focussed. Our branch had undergone a very extensive process for our 2005 -2008 strategic plan. So, we decided to build on that and use a more focussed but broad approach.

Service User Surveys distributed through all programs and services. 65 surveys returned.

Staff Survyes. 25 surveys returned.

Participant Advisory Committee input and oversight. (CMHA VB has a participant advisory committee that is made up of service users and acts to inform the leadership of consumer experience, needs, wants and to ensure consumer voice is at the decision making table of the organization.

Board Member research of a complete environmental scan.

Broad consultation with funders and donors about current services. Ongoing.

Leadership team input and review

So, that is a whole lot of data and opinions. The next step was engaging in a SCORE analysis. Strengths, Challenges, Opportunities, Risks and Enviornment. Stayed tuned to hear about how we did.

Moving an Organization Forward

Every non-profit either has, or should have a strategic plan. This plan outlines the vision of the organization and the goals, objectives and tasks to get there.

This past Spring, our Branch began the process of developping our new 3 year strategic plan. This process led by our Board of Directors, sets the stage for our growth and will be the basis of our work and decision making.

Over the next several blog posts, I would like to share the ins and outs, of strategic planning and give everyone a head's up as to where we are going. I hope you enjoy and please don't hesitate to share your comments about the plan. All input is valuable as we are a community organization and we want to hear from you.

Sincerely,

Rebecca Shields
Executive Director

The CMHA VB Board of Directors

Top Left to Right: Jane O'Connor, Merrill Sheppard, Pervez Siddiqui, Isabella Mori

Front: Julia Raudzus and Rebecca Shields (ED)

Absent: Robert Lydon, Pamela Verma, Shannon Higginson

Mental - A TV Series

I watched the premiere of Mental last night on FOX network. To be honest, I had no idea what to expect. Like any TV series it had its good and bad points.

The acting was over-acting and the writing was heavy. I felt spoon fed the entire episode. In many ways the show felt typical of all medical dramas: the earnest residents, the slick doctor in bed with the drug companies more than the patients, the well intentioned hospital director, and - ultimately the show's hero - the good and caring doctor. It was both familiar and predictable.

However, the content, a focus on mental illness is new. Was it realistic? No. Was it filled with stereotypes and common misconceptions that made it all shiny and glossy? Yes. Was it better than most? Absolutely.

The protagonist, Jack Gallagher, was truly patient centred, and his message of empowerment and involvement was welcomed. He even used the word 'recovery.' The patient in the main storyline was not demonized, despite seeing demons, and there was an effort to contextualize experience.

I'm going to keep watching. I'm going to tell others to check it out. I am grateful to have a TV series that begins to tell stories and shed a new light on a topic that has been hidden for far too long. It may not be the best TV, but it is TV that will make me stay tuned!

Your Wellness Day

On May 29th, I am asking you to book a spa or salon treatment for yourself or you and your friends to celebrate “Your Wellness Day.” If you are familiar with the successful “Dine Out For Life Event,” we are organizing an event of similar structure but instead of restaurants donating to HIV/AIDS charities, we have partnered with spas and salons in support of mental health.

The two charities involved are MPA Society and the Canadian Mental Health Association. Please visit the sites, I know you will find the information and work of the organizations both useful and compelling.

Here’s what I am hoping you will do:
1. Please schedule a spa or salon appointment for May 29th at one of our partner businesses. These can be found at http://www.yourwellnessday.ca/.
2. Please let them know you are booking with them because you appreciate that they are supporting this important cause. And
3. Please forward this blog to all of your contacts, so that they too can pamper themselves, while supporting a terrific cause.

The website will continue to be updated for another week, so if your favorite spa isn’t on board yet, please let me know and I will try and track them down.

We intend to make this an annual event. This is our first year, and we purposefully started small. We are tremendously grateful to the spas and salons that have joined as inaugural business partners and the media that has offered us promotions and recognition.

We are especially thankful to you for booking appointments with these partners and letting them know how much you support business’ efforts to assist community organizations!

Happy Pampering!

Mel Thompson is on his way.

Some photos and a few words that commemorate the start of an incredible journey, The Ride for Mental Health, to open hearts and minds and to create awareness and acceptance for those living with mental illness.


The cyclists arrive


The Xerox Organizing Team: Andre, Sharon, Kevin, Rob, Naz, Andy, Steve and Catherine


Merrill Shepard - CMHAVB Past President, Dr. Art Hister, Pervez Siddiqui - CMHAVB President, Dr. Kerry Jang - City Councillor


Mel Thompson

In Mel Thompson's Own Words:

"We literally just parked the bikes after an incredible launch. We met at Vanier Beach to dip the wheels of my bike in the ocean. Then a group of about 25 riders pedalled with me to the Art Gallery at the city centre. A live band, "RADIOPLAY" greeted us and the Executive Director of the CMHA Vancouver Burnaby Branch mc'd the ceremonies. A city counsellor, Dr. Kerry Jang,(who is also a psychiatrist) commented on the City's commitment to mental health and spoke of several initiatives. A local TV and radio personality, Dr Art Hister, made a great speech with some humour and they gave me about 10 minutes. I introduced my daughter Lindsay who spoke for 3 minutes and then I spoke for about 5 and had an opportunity to thank the organizers and the band and the CMHA Vancouver Burnaby Branch and talk a little about our objectives. Then Andy recognized the committee and then presented a cheque for $7777.00. Then we rode out with several police officers on bikes escorting us out of town.

Things went very smoothly and even the weather cooperated.

So my quote for the day is "Thanks to Andy and the Vancouver team for an amazing launch of the Ride For Mental Health. We had a fun first day of riding, arriving in Mission about 85 K from Vancouver. There are countless hills and mountains between here and Calgary. They worry me but I'm going to knock them down one at a time. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone and to a great event in Calgary.""

What would you do?

Did you know that a partner is four times more likely to leave you because of a mental health condition like depression than because of a physical disability?

Considering that 1 in 5 people in Canada will experience a mental health issue during their lifetime, chances are pretty good that you or someone you know with grapple with this experience.

How can you help?

For starters, we would like you to be aware of the impact of language. Consider the old saying “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” – not true. A recent study has found that the use of discriminating language, even unintentional references, can be detrimental to a person’s mental health.

You can also learn more about mental health issues, including mental illness. There are many ways to expand your knowledge in this area but we would ask that whatever you do, you challenge the stereotypes that you may come across in the media. Visit this excellent British site to test what your response might be in a number of scenarios.

A good place to start - take the time to talk to someone you know who lives with a mental illness - everybody has a story to tell. Read a book, surf the web, or take a course. Mental Health First Aid is one example of the courses that we are proud to offer.

Your investment in time will help you to help others, especially a person who may be experiencing a mental health issue. After all, the more facts we have about mental illness, the more able we are to help dispel the myths.

The choice is yours.

Meeting the Business Crowd

Last week, CMHA VB staff and volunteers headed to downtown Vancouver to do a little one-on-one mental health promotion. We handed out over 1000 stress-test cards that contain work-life balance tips on the back.

I'll admit, some people wouldn't even look at us as the rushed by and some people politely declined our free information. But more people accepted our cards with a smile. Given that we handed them all out in less than 20 minutes, I'd say they were a big hit. We're hoping that as people take them back to their office they will share them with their co-workers or take them home and share them with family and friends.

Sometimes, it just take a gentle reminder, to encourage people to re-focus on balance, wellness and self-care.

Huge thanks to all our volunteers who made this Mental Health Week event a great success.

Click here to view our top tips and feel free to let us know if there are tips you use that we can share with others.

The Ride For Mental Health

Tuesday May 19th Kick Off Celebration

Our branch is pleased to be a community partner in one man's dream to make a difference. Mel Thompson is going to start his journey to bicycle across Canada to raise awareness and acceptance of mental health issues. Now is your chance to be part of this incredible journey by showing your support and sending him on his way with a true Vancouver send off.

11:00 am – Vanier Park.

Mel will dip his wheels in water and cycle up to the Vancouver Art Gallery, where the party awaits him. Local cyclist can join Mel – to join him on this short ride all you need to do is 1) email Andy to RSVP 2) show up with your bicycle. 3) sign a waiver (available on site)
Click here to email Andy

12:00 (noon) – Vancouver Art Gallery, Georgia Street Side. Celebration Central
· Live music by RadioPlay featuring Michael LeBlanc
· Interactive Booths and Tables that feature lots of great tips to promote your own wellness

12:30 pm - Fun talk by Dr. Art Hister of CKNW and Global TV on mental health promotion
Mel Thomson takes a moment to reflect on his motivation and inspiration.
Xerox presentation of community fundraising to CMHA Vancouver Burnaby Branch

1:00 pm – Mel’s journey begin.

You can follow Mel through Facebook, Twitter and his Blog. Check out his website http://www.therideformentalhealth.org/ for details.

Thank you everyone for your support. Please take the time to join us and help us collectively send a message of the importance of mental health and how we can all create change!

Election Day

This is your last chance to vote. If you have not had a chance to visit the CMHA website that has compiled lots of useful information on the candidates positions on mental health related issues - please do it now. Mental health matters! http://www.supportedhousingnow.ca/

Mental Health Week - The Proclamation

Last Tuesday May 5th, 2009, His Worship the Mayor of Vancouver, Gregor Robertson proclaimed Mental Health Week for the City of Vancouver.

This event was notable for several reasons. First, because it was my first opportunity to address council on the importance of mental health promotion for all its citizens.

Secondly, because the MPA Society, represented by their Executive Director, David MacIntyre, was the co-recipient of the proclamation. This was a public demonstration of the partnership and shared values between our two organizations.

Lastly, because CMHA is working to further its community presence and we are proud to work with our civic elected and administrative officials to build stronger healthier communities.

David MacIntrye, Rebecca Shields, Mayor Robertson

Mental Health Week: May 4 to 10, 2009

Gregor Robertson, Mayor of Vancouver, will be officially proclaiming Mental Health Week in Vancouver today at 2 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. It's a rainy Vancouver spring day, but we're hoping a great many will come out to show support for mental health awareness!

Mental Health Week is about awareness, not only of issues around mental health, such as stigma and myths, but also awareness of how mental health, just like physical health, affects all people. Mental health is everyday health for everybody.

This year, CMHA's theme for Mental Health Week is "Now, More Than Ever, Invest In Yourself." With all the stressors in our lives, whether they be financial, familial, work or health-related, and so on, it is important to take care of your mental health. It's one of our greatest assets. The CMHA National web-site offers a few tools to see if your life is in balance, and tips to help you mind your mental health. Mental health is also about being proactive, about recognizing problems and seeking health before things become overwhelming.

What about all of you? What do you do for your mental health?

Hello, We're Glad to Be Here!

Well, we're finally in the blogosphere...

We are going to be adding more content soon, but meanwhile we hope people will check out the Mental Health Camp, happening today.