tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75950986111085761762012-01-23T00:03:21.130-05:00MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.comBlogger911100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-58751485309248165042011-10-20T12:02:00.002-04:002011-10-20T12:12:18.142-04:00

Through this year's Mental Illness Awareness Week, we came in contact with Bethany Butzer. Read her story below to see what elements aided in her recovery from mental illness. Bethany ButzerI'm an author, speaker, researcher and yoga teacher who provides inspirational products and services that help people manage their stress and mood. I suffered from anxiety and depression in my early 20s, and

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-7951121698094551432011-08-15T09:05:00.001-04:002011-08-15T09:05:41.939-04:00

A study by the American Psychological Association shows that young children are less likely to receive treatment for mental issues than adults. Why is that? They may be shy to seek help or think they will “grow out” of their problems. So, what can we do to help these kids who are living with mental illness? Ontario recently announced new funding to put mental health workers and nurses in

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-15983945018347942202011-07-26T10:48:00.002-04:002011-07-26T10:51:31.803-04:00

Mens sana in corpore sano is a famous Latin expression that means a healthy body can sustain a healthy mind. Exercise is not only a great way to develop a lean body, muscles, and a strong heart, but it’s also been shown to help keep us mentally fit too. There are many medical articles and research studies that show the benefits of exercise on mental health and mental illnesses including

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-49889370881718830842011-07-15T11:06:00.002-04:002011-07-15T11:16:15.081-04:00

There’s been a lot of talk lately about youth who face mental health issues. According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, two-thirds of adults report that their mental health issues first appeared during childhood. That said, we’re happy to see the Government of Canada and the provincial and territorial Ministers of Health making mental health promotion and support a top priority by

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-632154774794024042011-07-05T14:08:00.005-04:002011-07-05T14:22:04.898-04:00

Our recent Facebook Page question “Have you ever struggled to find support for mental health issues?” got the MIAW team thinking... We know the stigma of being labelled with having a mental illness keeps many people from seeking help. There have been several recent news articles about the widespread challenges facing young people who need to access mental health support. There are also studies

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-30605750921581865482011-06-25T14:00:00.009-04:002011-06-25T14:00:03.403-04:00

Every year, we connect with so many great people through our Face Mental Illness Campaign. We meet people from across Canada with unique experiences with mental health and mental illness. Marc is one of the people we met this year. Here's his story:In my view, mental illness means a disease or ailment that affects the brain and/or mind. Such an ailment affects the way one thinks, feels, acts,

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-6759525558991662602011-06-22T11:57:00.000-04:002011-06-22T11:59:48.160-04:00

Our sponsors over at Janssen have launched a great new online resource for those affected by schizophrenia. Visit www.mentalwellness.ca and find a wealth of information about schizophrenia for patients, caregivers and healthcare providers. This includes outlining treatment options, ways of recognizing symptoms, avoiding relapses, and tips on how to educate others on the disease. Most notably,

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-85076235168502840952011-06-15T11:04:00.000-04:002011-06-15T11:05:48.262-04:00

A recent article in the Toronto Star by Dr. Kwame McKenzie explored the topic of jobs as a lifeline for those living with mental health. The writer explains that his job really helped him integrate into his community when he moved to Canada. However, he writes that many of his clients living with mental illness are not so lucky, as the stigmas surrounding mental health are so negative that they

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-55488926222316042942011-05-06T13:00:00.003-04:002011-05-06T13:12:41.102-04:00

We're back this week with a look at some of this week's news stories on mental health.This week is Mental Health Week (May 1st-7th 2011). Did you know that the Canadian Mental Health Association's Mental Health Week is celebrating 60 years? MHW continues to make a great impact across the nation. What an amazing achievement!The Toronto Star’s healthzone featured an article about the new Centre for

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-90829582842288574962011-04-21T14:47:00.000-04:002011-04-21T14:52:34.777-04:00

Here's a look at some of the mental health headlines for the week of April 15-21, 2011.On Thursday, April 21, 2011 the Amherst Daily News wrote an article about the ‘Minds in Motion Walk’ that will take place on May 4th 2011 to raise funds for mental health. This will be the 4th annual walk to raise money for mental health. Also on Thursday the West Carleton EMC reported on the ‘Do it for Daron’

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-9743641691096625812011-04-16T14:59:00.003-04:002011-04-16T15:10:11.315-04:00

Here's a look at some of the mental health headlines for the week of April 9-14, 2011.On Saturday, April 9, the Vancouver Observer did a story on comedian David Granirer, founder of Stand Up to Mental Health. On Monday, April 11, the Toronto Star reported on the appointment of Pat Capponi, a woman living openly with mental illness, to the Ontario Consent and Capacity Board. Also on Monday, The

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-1694157491306353642010-10-12T12:02:00.004-04:002010-10-12T12:10:58.388-04:00

2010 Face of Mental Illness, David, share his thoughts about mental illness and his family.Mental illness runs strong in my family. Many of my family members past and present have experienced all or some of schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. I find it quite interesting that many family members are reluctant to get help--such as psychosocial-rehabilitation counseling and medication

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-68448803558789905052010-09-09T15:14:00.001-04:002010-09-09T15:16:53.992-04:00

Here is a regime Marie uses daily that has helped her maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Anyone with mental illness can move to wellness and recovery, but it takes work. Take a view on what has helped Marie!

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-44886317129869774192010-09-07T17:13:00.003-04:002010-09-07T17:17:47.912-04:00

Checking in with Ted "dr. j" Jablonski on his SAD no more 2010 Canadian Tour. Here's what Ted's been up to.SNM Tour Day 38It poured most of the night off and on. So what started out looking like a potentially very rainy day (again) turned from overcast, to cloudy to clear and SUNNY - it was a glorious and much needed! As much as the sky changed, so to did the landscape, transforming from rock

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-19194821500132280172010-09-02T15:44:00.002-04:002010-09-02T15:49:31.113-04:00

2010 Face of Mental Illness, Jennifer, responds to a reader comment on a recent Sudbury Star article about her experiences with mental illness. Read the original article here, the reader comment here and Jennifer's response below. Maybe Harold A. Maio from Florida is right - that Stigma is a poor word choice attached to mental illness. Maio responded to a Sudbury Star article about me, and

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-3943582022209876842010-08-31T10:18:00.000-04:002010-08-31T10:20:07.323-04:00

When I last wrote, I had joined the gym. I've been going about four to five times per week over the past five weeks. I've been feeling much better with much more energy and have generally been excited about life without any signs of hypo-mania. But for the last couple of days, I have been depressed. Not Edgar Allen Poe depressed - more like Eeyore depressed. I know why that happened. I

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-74221848745644621462010-08-27T15:11:00.002-04:002010-08-27T15:29:13.648-04:00

Something tells me there is more to my story than I currently know. By no means am I a medical doctor and this is not medical advice. Rather, it is a very brief account of symptoms that exist prompting me to seek further medical counsel to see if I have co-morbid schizophrenia and autism. I speculate that the autism (in this case I refer to high functioning autism or Asperger's Syndrome

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-58019016026466636892010-08-26T13:52:00.004-04:002010-08-26T14:34:21.605-04:00

I am a pack rat/hoarder. Before I was treated for schizophrenia, I used to be somewhat of a pack rat/hoarder but I was very particular about being organized (everything MUST be in the right place and at correctly precise angles--such as right angle, diagonal, etc.). After being treated for schizophrenia with medication and rehabilitation counselling, I am a much more relaxed person. Only

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-75967020073233150822010-08-19T17:00:00.001-04:002010-08-19T17:09:52.595-04:00

Photograph by Global, GlobalThe Vancouver Sun recently published an article, Doctors debate whether hoarding a real mental illness, examining how hoarding is similar, an yet, different to mental illnesses such as obsessive compulsive disorder.Do you think hoarding should be classified as a mental illness?

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-5315438991921905522010-08-17T12:30:00.004-04:002010-08-17T12:42:38.133-04:00

One of the 2010 Faces of mental illness, Jennifer Ashawasegai, discusses her recent visit to Hiawatha First Nation where she spoke about her experiences living with bipolar disorder. Hiawatha First Nation is a beautiful community on the north shore of Rice Lake. I was invited by the Community Health Nurse, Martha Calback-Ladouceur to speak about my experiences living with bipolar disorder. I was

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-1063466113883315642010-08-16T11:28:00.002-04:002010-08-16T11:54:54.562-04:00

2010 Face of Mental Illness, Marie Asuncion, vlogs about her personal strategies for recovering from mental illness.Watch Maire's VideoWhat are your strategies for working towards recovery and living successfully with mental illness?

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-1844012816402604182010-08-09T11:00:00.002-04:002010-08-09T11:13:16.317-04:00

When I first went to CMHA (Canadian Mental Health Association) Winnipeg nearing the end of 2005 and into 2006, I had returned to work at a restaurant (as a cook and a dishwasher) that I had worked at during my University years. This was quite depressing since I was highly educated but paid barely above minimum wage, and I could not make ends meet without using extensive amounts of credit cards.

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-64540540258575466162010-08-09T10:31:00.001-04:002010-08-09T10:33:05.909-04:00

Too brite daysmidnights that refuse toabide dark and secretwhen empty phrases chantto fairytale MoonsI tell myselfThis is no ordinary roomThis is no fleeting flittering lifeThis is a magical passagewaysparkling like mica, like miraclesQuiet tracesluminescent impressiona trailing kite tail bindssilent whimpers, sojourning whispers,tears shining behind mime smilesCrone's gnarled fingers, playingto

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-54930541625835340962010-08-05T15:20:00.002-04:002010-08-06T10:27:31.636-04:00

Then I had the biggest breakthrough, one that was going to change my life forever but at that time I didn’t know it. For my 50th birthday I asked a good friend of mine for a gift, it was a trip to New York City to attend a Chopra Center program called “Renewal Weekend”. I learned about the Chopra Center when I read a book written by Deepak Chopra called “The Seven Spiritual Laws of Yoga”. One

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-65955559777624172022010-08-05T15:12:00.003-04:002010-08-05T15:28:45.294-04:00

My name is Maxine Speck and I am 52 years of age, I am sharing my story of mental illness because it is a story of success. I want my story to give hope to others to know that we can all do something to help ourselves and there are resources available to help us make changes in our lives. Approximately 5 years ago I was diagnosed with major depression, post traumatic stress disorder, panic and

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-91230529044508400692010-08-04T10:13:00.003-04:002010-08-04T10:28:34.962-04:00

By David Albert NewmanAugust 3, 2010This post discusses a very strong point of interest of mine: quality over quantity health care treatment. This article shows the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) advocating pay for performance based upon quantity of patients treated. A piece rate system (pay for performance) based upon the QUANTITY of patients treated is NOT a good solution. That rewards

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-31731431999400485832010-08-03T11:12:00.002-04:002010-08-03T11:29:05.854-04:00

‘The artists are reaching for something inside’ Being Scene is an art exhibition which showcases pieces by artists who have experience with mental health or addiction issues. It combines pieces from artists with formal training, as well as, those with no training at all. The exhibition pieces do not follow a mental health theme, artists contribute whichever pieces they would like. Rather, this is

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-65529803544037195872010-07-29T13:33:00.002-04:002010-07-29T13:38:14.564-04:00

In her most recent video, 2010 Face of Mental Illness Marie Asuncion discusses managing your mental health while in the workplace."A brief experience with mental health and the workplace. See how you can handle mental health and having a full time job, and what you should do as a person with a disability to ensure you use your rights! "Watch Marie's video

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-86743974156564967032010-07-26T10:00:00.002-04:002010-07-26T10:12:37.646-04:00

"Schizophrenia, drugs were his demons", by Morgan Ian Adams, appeared in The Barrie Examiner on July 23, 2010. This article discusses Aron Firman who lived with schizophrenia and drug addiction. Sadly, he died from the use of a Taser during a confrontation with police officers after an altercation with another resident in the group home where Aron lived.Four weeks after his death, his family is

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-34225929640228617022010-07-21T11:21:00.002-04:002010-07-22T13:16:25.952-04:00

Hello MIAW friends and supporters. 2010 Face of Mental Illness Dr. Ted Jablonski is busy preparing for his 2010 SAD no more Canadian Tour this fall when he will cycle, run and speak across Canada to raise awareness about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and inspire action to overcome it. Ted needs your help!Do you, or someone you know, have Seasonal Affective Disorder and want to share your

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-32232305135449772852010-07-21T10:10:00.003-04:002010-07-21T10:23:23.461-04:00

2010 Face of Mental Illness, Dr. Ted Jablonski is about to kick off his SAD no more tour! We wanted to share his message and ask for everyone's support in getting his message out. Please share this page with your friends and help us raise awareness of seasonal affective disorder and support Ted in his bike across Canada!Hi everyone,First of all, a big thanks for your ongoing support and

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-90654379763175586142010-07-19T11:23:00.003-04:002010-07-19T12:19:00.055-04:00

D'Arcy Mann starved himself for 100 days to raise awareness of the serious effects of mental illnesses such as anorexia and bulimia.During the 100 days of this stunt, D'Arcy would limit food to half an apple for breakfast, a can of tuna for lunch, and the other half an apple for dinner."The 100 day project won’t likely change any minds of those who already have the anorexia demon inside them, as

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-30515669188944004452010-07-13T13:27:00.001-04:002010-07-13T13:55:58.106-04:00

“While at lunch July 12, 2010, I was reading a local Winnipeg newspaper that I enjoy very much. I read about the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the CFL. The sports writer (and previously another sports writer and even the former head coach) have used the term “schizophrenic” when generalizing about how Winnipeg fans act with respect to the football team’s wins and losses (e.g. an up and down, love

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-66029866518237867162010-07-12T10:25:00.002-04:002010-07-12T10:27:09.242-04:00

2010 Face of Mental Illness Awareness Week, Marie Asuncion, shares some very valuable information about cognitive therapy and her experiences with it. Watch Marie's vlog!

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-13705640448484073822010-07-07T09:35:00.002-04:002010-07-09T09:33:08.139-04:00

Once upon a time I knew I was never going to be the same. I knew I had this illness, and for a long time I knew I wouldn’t get better, permanently. One day I was working, and felt sick, so I had called in to work to take the day off. I hurried and tried to remedy my situation, but nothing but time did the trick. I needed to step back. Despite the career-driven and motivated young woman I was, I

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-85803289687825842872010-07-07T09:28:00.002-04:002010-07-08T09:55:53.082-04:00

Whenever I used to get sick, the feeling would be so strong that my mind would begin to wander into places that were so dark, it was depressing. I had lost all my friends during high school, and now as an adult, I pick and choose who I decide to let be my friend, because in a way I need to protect myself. Having a mental illness is something that we as people have to manage on our own and on our

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-72231883660856938472010-07-07T09:18:00.001-04:002010-07-07T09:18:46.256-04:00

By May 2005 my sore was healed but I was so skinny all my bones were showing. I had smoked so much weed and tobacco my muscles were withering away, so the doctor at the rehab hospital admitted me for a six-week period. I spent most of the time over the first two weeks lying in bed thinking about my life and how it all seemed to be centred around tobacco and marijuana. My mom suggested I should

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-32864671911137189602010-07-06T13:41:00.004-04:002010-07-06T13:44:07.687-04:00

Jennifer Asawasegai is one of this year's Faces of Mental Illness.She has just started her own blog and would like to invite you to visit it and learn about her personal experiences with mental illness.Visit Jennifer's blog!

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-86743013057901491282010-07-06T09:47:00.002-04:002010-07-06T09:49:41.151-04:00

Lauded as a strong advocate for mental-health issues, former Canadian ambassador to the United States Michael Wilson is being invested in the Order of Canada as a companion.Following a long career in politics and the financial sector, Mr. Wilson became a mental-health crusader after losing a son to depression and suicide. He started the Cameron Parker Holcombe Wilson Chair in Depression Studies

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-14215802212198353952010-07-05T06:59:00.003-04:002010-07-05T07:05:43.710-04:00

Web-based forums talk openly about 'the elephant in the corner' In an article by Gillian Shaw, the Vancouver Sun discusses the many ways social media is helping to reduce the stigma of mental illness by making it easier for those living with mental illness to share their stories in a comfortable environment. "Once you start clueing people in, you find everybody has been touched by these things

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-76765964698538028092010-06-29T17:04:00.004-04:002010-07-06T09:25:01.601-04:00

When I was well enough to be transferred to Toronto Rehab’s Spinal Cord Program for six months of therapy I was fitted with a wheelchair – and for the first time in two months I was able to sit upright. The very first time I got up in my wheelchair I went outside for some fresh air and saw a man smoking a cigarette. Even though I had been tobacco-free for two months, I craved a smoke so strongly

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-46248977353799571262010-06-29T17:02:00.005-04:002010-07-05T06:30:06.654-04:00

A few days later I was getting ready for bed around 1:30 a.m. Like I always did before going to bed, I smoked a water bong, which would usually put me to sleep right away. However, this time was different. After finishing the bong a strange feeling came over me. The next thing I knew I was I was in my dad’s room shaking his shoulder to wake him up. I said to him, “Let’s go to Israel.” I

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-48553816487984572952010-06-29T17:00:00.004-04:002010-06-30T10:08:15.074-04:00

By the time I was 20 years old all my friends had either graduated or dropped out of school. My ability to play hockey was going down the drain so I dropped out too. I got fired from the gas station when they caught me stealing and then found a job at a moving company with one of my friends. But I soon lost that job too for not showing up for work after a night of partying. The times in between

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-21751067262903799372010-06-29T16:55:00.002-04:002010-06-29T17:00:13.316-04:00

Mike Parent sustained a spinal cord injury a number of years ago during a psychotic episode. Mike has presented his story on many occasions to an injury prevention program in Toronto called PARTY; now he wants to share his story with you.Because Mike has so much to share, his story will be presented in 5 parts. Check back over the next few days to read the rest of Mike's inspirational story. Part

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-26741325026499519122010-06-29T10:58:00.004-04:002010-06-29T11:09:09.263-04:00

Part 2 Upon arriving in Ottawa, I connected with my political colleagues, made new friends and began to establish myself in a place I then called home. I loved Ottawa but suddenly things changed. The story of ‘what happened to Andrea’ is long and personal but I have begun writing it in a book and sharing my story on my blog because it is so captivating and unreal. At times it is difficult to

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-85101165902993675412010-06-28T10:29:00.004-04:002010-06-29T11:09:33.366-04:00

Part 1"Hello, my name is Andrea. I am originally from a place called Sudbury, Ontario. Like all teenagers I was faced with some tough decisions-school, parents, alcohol and drugs, friends, and my future. My father did his very best but I was rebellious; however, I took it upon myself to call my mother and ask for a plane ticket to live with her in British Columbia. She graciously embraced me

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-11892718741154108032010-06-25T11:07:00.002-04:002010-06-25T11:15:58.875-04:00

Unlisted is scheduled for release to PBS stations in October 2010, coinciding with Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW).For many years, physician and filmmaker Delaney Ruston was estranged from her father, Richard, a poet and novelist who struggled with schizophrenia and at times lived on the streets. Feeling helpless whenever he showed up at her door in psychotic states, she decided to become

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-26443328661938521752010-06-25T09:52:00.003-04:002010-06-25T10:11:12.207-04:00

Times Colonist columnist Jody PatersonThis is a really interesting article, written by Jody Patterson, discussing the lack of mental health funding in Vancouver and Canada as a whole. The article continues to discuss the stigma often attached to mental illness and the misconceptions that arise due to the way mental illness is presented in the media, that those with mental illness are dangerous

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-58747667336331565862010-06-22T10:39:00.003-04:002010-06-22T17:54:18.285-04:00

David Albert Newman, one of this year's Faces of Mental Illness, is currently working on his MBA. David is living with schizophrenia and credits his unique ideas for his Prospect Paper as being a factor product of creativity arising from mental illness, in his case schizophrenia.David would like to share his Ideas to illustrate this creativity.David's Ideas:How do you think Galileo and Newton

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-34577942384838605702010-06-22T09:56:00.002-04:002010-06-22T10:26:09.731-04:00

In the past, facilities such as the Provincial Lunatic Asylum and the Eastern Hospital for the Insane were built on the outskirts of cities, separate from other hospitals. Today, the Toronto Hospital and Brockville Mental Health Centre have become integrated parts of these two cities, with the Toronto Hospital undergoing a major remodel and the Brockville Mental Health Centre being integrated

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-43034695112698724342010-06-17T13:07:00.007-04:002010-06-17T13:26:17.746-04:00

Check out this new documentary about a filmmaker's journey of mental illness and recovery called OC87: The Obsessive Compulsive, Major Depression, Bipolar, Asperger's Movie. Go to the film's website to view the trailer The documentary is being screened at Pennsylvania Mental Health Consumers' Association state conference today. Read more about the film and the PMHCA's actitivies here.

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-42900724643548243832010-06-14T17:22:00.003-04:002010-06-14T17:25:46.010-04:00

By Scott McKeen, Edmonton Journal June 14, 2010This is for the man who claims a mild flu again today, to explain away his hangover.This is for the woman who applies a smile in the morning mirror, to hide her depression.This is for the children who shrink into themselves at school, to hide their constant anxiety.Forever seeking normal is their daily, plodding ambition. If not to be normal, to at

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-3878060067906213982010-06-14T11:13:00.001-04:002010-06-14T11:14:36.370-04:00

2010 Face Marie Asuncion talks about the stigma surrounding mental illness, how it affects her life and recovery, and why it's important to break down the barriers of stigmatization. Enjoy!

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-32962223547772985942010-06-11T10:45:00.004-04:002010-06-11T10:53:02.340-04:00

Meet Marie, one of the Faces of Mental Illness Awareness Week.Marie is a musician and English as a second language teacher from Toronto, Ontario. Read Marie's story

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-30864533763128834672010-06-10T11:18:00.001-04:002010-06-10T11:20:57.016-04:00

Staring at the iron ring on her pinkie finger, Jennifer Francis sees much more than a piece of metal – it symbolizes a journey of struggle and triumph. Francis will be walking across the stage in Alumni Hall on Wednesday, June 16 for her convocation from the Civil Engineering program. She will be accompanied by her companion and service dog, Spirit, who has a similar twinkling ‘iron paw’ on her

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-64472234219390384222010-06-10T10:46:00.002-04:002010-06-10T10:55:06.823-04:00

Meet David, one of the Faces of Mental Illness Awareness Week.David Albert Newman is an internal auditor from Winnipeg, ManitobaRead David's story

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-35175198544699372422010-06-09T17:44:00.003-04:002010-06-09T18:04:12.084-04:00

Last month, three of our 2009 Faces of Mental Illness had the exciting opportunity to visit Killarney, Ireland to participate in the 2010 International Initiative for Mental Health Leadership’s (IIMHL) annual Exchange and Network meeting. This exciting event brought together leaders and consumers from around the world to discuss steps to recovery from mental illness and promote strategies for

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-72516678582212999142010-06-09T12:36:00.005-04:002010-06-10T10:55:27.338-04:00

Meet Chrisine, one of the Faces of Mental Illness Awareness Week.Christine Dubois is a support worker, author, and volunteer from Asbestos, Québec.Read Christine's story.

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-32407034809635344142010-06-09T12:28:00.003-04:002010-06-09T12:30:25.285-04:00

When they struck hardest, Maria Connell says she feared she was about to die.A racing heart. Shortness of breath. The shakes, the sweats. And this overpowering, suffocating feeling of fear, so strong it overwhelms any sense of reason."It just brings you to your knees."Connell, 46, suffers from anxiety disorder, the subject of a talk at the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre on Thursday. You can

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-19005212049032978022010-06-08T15:37:00.003-04:002010-06-08T16:40:20.267-04:00

It's well-known that smoking and secondhand smoke are dangerous to our health, but are they also harmful to our mental health? A new study suggests they might be.The study in the Archives of General Psychiatry has drawn a link between secondhand smoke and psychological distress, as well as the risk of future hospitalization for psychiatric illness."To our knowledge, this is the first study to

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-73682354210576828602010-06-08T13:33:00.005-04:002010-06-08T15:32:45.589-04:00

Meet Ted, one of the Faces of Mental Illness Awareness Week. Dr. Ted Jablonski is a family physician in Calgary, Alberta.Read Ted's story.Ted is also a singer-songwriter.Listen to Dr.J's music.

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-19836450672271678462010-06-08T10:34:00.005-04:002010-06-08T10:42:21.774-04:00

Our 2010 Face, Marie Asuncion, introduces herself and discusses how she manages stress. Marie will be sending us video blogs over the course of the Face Mental Illness campaign leading up to Mental Illness Awareness Week Oct 3-9. Check back often!

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-75049372776644954472010-06-07T15:57:00.004-04:002010-06-07T16:09:28.688-04:00

Meet Jennifer, one of the Faces of Mental Illness Awareness Week. Jennifer Ashawasegai is a journalist and a member of the Anishinabek Nation in Ontario. Read Jennifer's Story.

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-55457456090132461432010-06-04T14:33:00.009-04:002010-06-04T16:27:31.772-04:00

The MIAW team is proud to introduce the new Faces for the 2010 Face Mental Illness campaign! We’ve selected five Canadians from across Canada who are living successfully with mental illness.This year's Faces are:- David Albert Newman is an internal auditor from Winnipeg, Manitoba; - Marie Asuncion is a musician and ESL teacher from Toronto, Ontario; - Dr. Ted Jablonski is a family physician from

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-57346209710191084822010-06-04T09:38:00.003-04:002010-06-04T10:54:23.355-04:00

Our 2010 Face, Marie Asuncion, will be sending us video blog posts throughout the campaign. This first video explains her journey from diagnosis to recovery. Enjoy!

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-41191929380987277452010-06-02T12:51:00.002-04:002010-06-04T11:43:14.550-04:00

I am David Albert Newman. I was born in 1976 and I am now 34 years old. I have Schizophrenia. It is only a small part of me now. But at one time it was a large part since I was suicidal, depressed, anxious, hallucinating and delusional.I recovered with medication and effective psychological-social rehabilitation counselling with a skilled, empathetic, and tireless mental health community worker

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-48591397053795270422010-06-02T11:12:00.001-04:002010-06-02T11:14:33.668-04:00

Children and families are waiting up to a year for a routine referral for mental health services at the IWK Health Centre, a group of Nova Scotia MLAs were told Tuesday.Senior mental health officials told the community services committee that the health system is struggling to keep up with an ever-growing demand for services."We have between 700 and 1,000 children and families waiting. It's a

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-63277130718369606052010-06-01T16:41:00.003-04:002010-06-01T17:22:59.109-04:00

My name is Marie Asuncion, and I am a consumer survivor of first episode psychosis also known as schizophrenia. A long time ago, I pictured my life as being a girl walking into her high school for the first time, popular, pretty, and together. But, unfortunately, that all changed after my first year in Grade 9. I lost all faith in myself, my friends disowned me, and high school seemed like a

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-66086524363296491522010-06-01T11:03:00.003-04:002010-06-01T11:10:26.553-04:00

Dave Nelson (left), executive director of the province's division of the Canadian Mental Health Association, watches comedian Ian Morrison go through his routine in Regina on Monday.Photograph by: Don Healy, Leader-Post, The Leader-Post"If the audience doesn't laugh, that's their fault" -- that was a humorous lesson a young Ian Morrison learned from watching standup comedy legend George

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-19447903428625346432010-05-31T13:59:00.001-04:002010-05-31T14:00:57.736-04:00

While more and more children are being diagnosed with mental-health problems and learning disabilities, schools are struggling to gain access to mental-health professionals with the expertise to address their students’ learning needs, according to a report released Monday by a parent advocacy group.The report, which was compiled by People for Education and based on a survey of Ontario principals,

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-14921066996632104252010-05-31T13:35:00.001-04:002010-05-31T13:38:41.729-04:00

Even when the tickets were sold out, people kept phoning, hoping a spot would open up. Clearly, Toronto's first mental health camp met a need.The day-long “unconference” — as organizers described it — was an opportunity for people with mental illness, those who care for them, and those who care about them, to explore the benefits and dangers of social networking.It's a new frontier for those

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-14413671511861367752010-05-28T14:08:00.001-04:002010-05-28T14:10:07.226-04:00

Fixing gene connected to immune system cured 'hair-pulling' disorder in mice, study foundIn the first scientific illustration of exactly how some psychiatric illnesses might be linked to an immune system gone awry, researchers report they cured mice of an obsessive-compulsive condition known as "hair-pulling disorder" by tweaking the rodents' immune systems.Although scientists have noticed a link

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-13354683983515113802010-05-28T13:42:00.002-04:002010-05-28T13:47:41.377-04:00

Catholic school donates more than $2,000 to Ontario Shores foundationHow are you working to reduce the stigma?Students at All Saints Catholic Secondary School are spreading the word about the need to reduce social stigma with the launch of the school's first Mental Health Awareness Week. After recently attending a Stomp out Stigma Summit on mental health, a group of senior students at the Whitby

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-73943174633377244702010-05-27T16:59:00.001-04:002010-05-27T17:03:26.825-04:00

Mental health services are not restricted to adults in North and South Delta.A Canadian Psychiatric Association study found youth were not only facing enormous amounts of stress in their lives, they were also more likely to talk to a peer or not access any support at all than to turn to teachers, parents or professionals."Research indicates that the occurrence and severity of mental illness can

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-1484476130427997192010-05-27T11:11:00.001-04:002010-05-27T11:14:15.908-04:00

Dexter Roberts' struggles with mental illness an inspiration to manyRiverside resident Dexter Roberts didn't intend to be an inspiration to others, it just happened.A resident of the Queen Street and Broadview Avenue area, the 39 year old was diagnosed with depression several years ago and has fought a tough battle to learn to cope with the ups and downs brought on by his illness.Read full

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-64943352763585716162010-05-26T11:21:00.004-04:002010-05-26T11:26:21.191-04:00

A bank account is a critical first step to independence for those suffering everything from depression to schizophrenia.Banks were the last place Eliza felt comfortable.People stared. There were lineups. The whole process was confusing, intimidating. When she first went with her social worker to get a bank account three years ago, she was so agitated that she verged on the hostile.As months went

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-11260739226922960692010-05-25T10:41:00.002-04:002010-05-25T11:16:34.818-04:00

The fast pace of modern life is leaving people feeling increasingly isolated and lonely, a mental health charity claims.The rise in individualism and family breakdown – and changes in relationships and the workplace – make it more difficult for us to connect with others, according to the Mental Health Foundation (MHF).Read full articleHow do you make time for face-to-face contact with friends and

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-19272788331238626082010-05-21T11:05:00.002-04:002010-05-21T11:08:56.361-04:00

The high number of seniors who live in residential care homes and experience depression is a health concern that demands greater attention, according to a new report.The Canadian Institute for Health Information gathered information about 50,000 seniors in nursing homes and similar residences and found that almost 45 per cent had symptoms of depression or were diagnosed with it.Read full article

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-13776277962413072392010-05-20T13:20:00.005-04:002010-05-20T16:30:07.365-04:00

As Chair of the MIAW Committee, and a member of the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH), I would like to welcome you to this year’s campaign.This year, Mental Illness Awareness Week will run from October 3 – 9.Please visit our blog regularly during the year to get updates on the campaign, and news on the state and progress of mental health advocacy in Canada.We are also

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-841710793961286912010-05-18T14:23:00.005-04:002010-05-20T11:56:05.716-04:00

In this article, written for Vancouver Island University's the Nav, Wallace Malay shares his experience as a post-secondary student with bipolar disorder (manic depressive).“Suddenly I came to the realization that I am not ashamed of who I am, and that others were accepting of who I was also.” Read Article HereWallace Malay is one of this year's Online Faces of Mental Illness.

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-32239271573220957452010-05-13T11:28:00.003-04:002010-05-13T11:33:46.917-04:00

Former prime minister’s wife Margaret Trudeau shed some light on the difficulty of living with mental illness at the seventh annual Ladies Night Out, at the Listowel Agricultural Hall on May 7. Read full article Margaret Trudeau discusses the importance of having someone serve as an advocate and be there for you.Do you have a person you'd like to thank for being your advocate?

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-15752628414534240682010-05-12T13:26:00.004-04:002010-05-12T13:36:42.367-04:00

Alberta's new lieutenant governor, retired Col. Donald Ethell, plans to reach out to people with mental illness, families of fallen soldiers, and Aboriginal communities. "He has suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder and said it's healthy the stigma is being lifted from other soldiers and emergency personnel who live with it."[Disponible en anglais seulement]Click here to read the complete

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-84722597884520694142009-11-20T09:48:00.003-05:002010-05-20T17:06:26.835-04:00

Throughout my life I have had some very good jobs in the addiction’s field. These jobs have ranged from coordinating community based alcohol and drug programs to managing a Territorial alcohol and drug program. I have worked with some wonderful people who I have very fond memories of. Knowing what I know now it is surprising that I was able to function in such good jobs. The first community I

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-73564159469809327782009-09-30T12:44:00.008-04:002010-05-20T17:07:26.534-04:00

Beth was one of the 54 people nominated to become a national Face of Mental Illness as part of MIAW. She writes:Since January 2006 I have been employed as a Mental Health promoter with CMHA-WECB. It is only since working at CMHA that I have aggressively begun to seek out adequate treatment and diagnosis of my nearly lifelong emotional and psychological distresses. Now, finally, 30 years after

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-84048231258002856102009-09-30T12:37:00.008-04:002010-05-20T17:08:03.828-04:00

Jean François was one of the 54 people nominated to become a national Face of Mental Illness as part of MIAW. He writes:My StoryMy experience with mental illness came to light with a suicidal attempt in April of 1996. At the time, I felt depressed since I did not have a companion. I searched for companionship but remained unsuccessful finding that special someone. With the help of the

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-70849849595545082822009-09-22T14:06:00.003-04:002010-05-20T17:09:49.513-04:00

Megan was one of the 54 people nominated to become a national Face of Mental Illness as part of MIAW. She writes:That’s right – I said it. Now deal with it.People often ask why I have taken upon Aboriginal* youth suicide prevention as my passion in both my personal and professional life. Though there are many issues facing youth that I am sympathetic, passionate and informed about, I have

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-34509785597007206732009-09-02T14:22:00.005-04:002010-05-20T17:10:35.664-04:00

Wendy was one of the 54 people nominated to become a national Face of Mental Illness as part of MIAW. She writes:Meet Wendy Matthews. Wendy was inspired to launch her new business “happy being ME” 18 months ago in St. Catharines ON after she awoke from her sleep in the middle of the night with the fact that she was happy with who she is. Wendy has struggled with her illness, bipolar

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-58289347464711282522009-08-27T14:17:00.002-04:002010-05-20T17:10:56.382-04:00

Stephen was one of the 54 people nominated to become a national Face of Mental Illness as part of MIAW. He writes:Religion or Delusion? I understand the difficulty in drawing the line between religion and delusion. I have had a hard time with delusions that are a part of my psychosis, and I have experienced the benefits of religion that are a part of my faith. Unfortunately for us, there is

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-23622594377858240172009-08-06T09:14:00.008-04:002010-05-20T17:11:19.526-04:00

Andy was one of the 54 people nominated to become a national Face of Mental Illness as part of MIAW. He writes:Defining the ProblemAt the age of 45 I was diagnosed with a number of mental illnesses considered severe enough to put me out of the workforce and land me on the Canadian Pension Plan disability pension. I had no idea I was mentally ill and had just completed a Masters degree in

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-2640524955440571552009-07-29T09:07:00.013-04:002010-05-20T17:11:36.362-04:00

Arlene is a Mental Health Support Worker from Winnipeg, Manitoba. She has overcome her debilitating agoraphobia and become an inspirational leader who helps others find hope and become empowered by their experiences with mental illness. Arlene est travailleuse de soutien en santé mentale et habite à Winnipeg, au Manitoba. Elle a surmonté son agoraphobie pour devenir un leader qui inspire, qui

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7595098611108576176.post-84517996434577139162009-07-08T06:37:00.004-04:002010-05-20T17:12:28.459-04:00

Welcome to the new Mental Illness Awareness Week blog! As Chair of the MIAW Committee, and a member of the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH), I am proud to be the first to contribute to this exciting new feature of our annual campaign. Here, you will find news and updates on the current MIAW campaign, as well as relevant news articles that expand the discussion on

MIAW-SSMMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13881490711391969206noreply@blogger.com0