Member Blog: Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) Canada

Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) Réadaptation Psychosociale (RPS) Canada promotes psychosocial rehabilitation principles and the growth of psychosocial rehabilitation practices and programs in Canada. As such, PSR/RPS Canada is a leader in the transformation of mental health services in this country.  

PSR/RPS Canada is a young organization, being formed in 2001 as the result of an amicable split from the parent organization, the International Association of Psychosocial Rehabilitation Services (IAPSRS).

PSR/RPS Canada also has Chapters in BC, Manitoba, Ontario and Nova Scotia. It is also developing a good relationship with AQRP in Quebec.

PSR/RPS Canada members include practitioners, people with lived experience, their families and administrators, policy makers, researchers and educators.

What are PSR Principles?

Psychosocial rehabilitation (also termed psychiatric rehabilitation or PSR) promotes personal recovery, successful community integration and satisfactory quality of life for persons who have a mental illness or mental health concern.  Psychosocial rehabilitation services and supports are collaborative, person directed, and individualized, and an essential element of the human services spectrum.  They focus on helping individuals develop skills and access resources needed to increase their capacity to be successful and satisfied in the living, working, learning and social environments of their choice and include a wide continuum of services and supports. 

What are PSR Practices?

Psychosocial rehabilitation (PSR) approaches include programs, services and practices with well documented effectiveness in facilitating the recovery of persons living with serious mental illness. PSR approaches focus on programs and practices involving   the major life domains of employment, education, leisure, wellness, housing, family and peer support.

Specific examples of approaches include supported employment, supported education, supported housing, illness management and recovery, integrated approaches for concurrent disorders, and ACT Teams. PSR approaches are enhanced in their effectiveness by other treatment approaches and practices, including cognitive retraining, cognitive behaviour therapies and motivational interviewing.

Because of their effectiveness and recovery orientation, PSR approaches are important not only to individuals and their families but also to strategies and initiatives to transform mental health and programs and services in the United States and Canada. ACT Teams, for example when operated with fidelity reliably reduce the emergency psychiatric hospitalization rate in their service areas.

Supported housing and supported employment also significantly reduce emergency psychiatric hospitalization. Accordingly, these and other PSR approaches are important tools for recovery as well as in the transformation to effective, recovery oriented mental health systems and services in Canada which is a major goal of the Mental Health Strategy.

PSR Competencies and Education:

To facilitate the adoption of PSR approaches, it is important that practitioner competencies for PSR and recovery oriented approaches be identifies and become the basis for practitioner education and professional development programs. PSR/RPS Canada is currently doing this work to define   PSR competencies as well as promoting and providing PSR education and professional development.

There are currently three college programs in PSR in Canada, offered by Humber College, Toronto, Mohawk College, Hamilton and Douglas College in New Westminster.

Journals:

Members have access to two excellent journals: Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal and the Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health.

Defeat Depression

 Defeat Depression

National Mental Health Awareness, Anti-Stigma and Fundraising Campaign

 Event Locations Map 2013

The Defeat Depression Pan-Canadian Mental Health campaign is the only national multi-organizational, family based mental health campaign consisting of walks, runs, rides and other physical and social activities. These events are held in cities and towns across Canada and raise awareness of depression and other mood disorders and reduces stigma.

The Defeat Depression Mental Health Campaign involves dozens of mental health organizations throughout the country. The campaign saw its first events in May of 2012 when 23 cities and towns and thousands of Canadians from coast to coast took part in inaugural events.

Families, mental health organizations, community groups, caring companies and employees as well as volunteers are organizing local walks, runs, rides and other events to raise awareness about depression and other mood disorders and to help reduce the stigma that, for far too long, has cast negative perceptions on mental illness.

Many of these community organizations are struggling to try to keep up with the increased demand for services. This campaign raises funds to assist these non-profit organizations deliver services and supports. The funds raised at these events go to the community mental health organizations that provide critical support and services which greatly help improve the lives of Canadians experiencing depression and other mood disorders.

 

Why People Act!

Depression impacts virtually every Canadian family.  20% (1 in 5) Canadians will experience a mental illness or problem. Four to five percent (4-5%) of Canadians are depressed at any one point in time, (roughly 1.5 million). There is no one specific cause of depression. It can be triggered by traumatic events, a biochemical imbalance or through experiencing a particularly negative experiences or outlook on life. A family history of the illness can also position you to being more prone to depression than others. Of those who develop depression/anxiety, only about 20% will receive adequate treatment. Astonishingly, 97% of persons reporting depression/anxiety also report that their work, home life and relationships have suffered as a result of their illnesses or due to illness within their family.  Depression is a common mental disorder, characterized by sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, feelings of guilt or low self-worth, disturbed sleep or appetite, low energy and poor concentration. Physical activity such as walking, running and social interactions have a positive effect on our mental health and helps tackle depression. These events across Canada are the perfect way for family, friends, co-workers and persons who are affected by depression to all come out and support positive mental health! Everywhere, people Move for Mental Health! 

Communities Want To Participate

For far too long mental health issues were kept behind closed doors instead of being discussed. Through the Defeat Depression campaign, Canadians now have a campaign that offers an effective tool to do something together that has an immediate and positive effect on their family, friends and neighbours.

Today, especially among our youth, people are eager to take part in activities that tackles mental illness and fights stigma. The Defeat Depression campaign provides a wonderful way for everyone to take a stand against stigma while supporting local mental health services and supports. The campaign has more than doubled in one 1 short year and will continue to dramatically grow because it delivers what families and communities want.

The Defeat Depression campaign is about changing attitudes, perceptions, awareness and actions.  Please join the campaign and take a stand against depression. Contact www.defeatdepression.ca

Member Blog: The Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association

The Right People at the Right Time in the Right Place

The Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH) envisions “a country where all Canadians enjoy good mental health. Canadians with a lived experience of mental illness, their families and care providers must have access to the care, support and respect to which they are entitled and in parity with other health conditions.” Having the right people at the right time at the right place with the right expertise to meet Canadians in their time of need is critical. This vision resonates particularly strongly with us at the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). Like CAMIMH, we live, work, plan, and dream the principle of “health promotion and the treatment of mental illnesses (being) timely, continuous, inter-disciplinary, culturally appropriate, and integrated across the full life cycle and the continuum of care (i.e. physical and mental health; social supports and tertiary care to home/community care)” (http://camimh.ca/about-camimh/).

Who are We?

The Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) is the national, bilingual home to approximately 5000 mental health professionals in all provinces and territories. We have a 48-year history of advocating for the role of psychotherapy and counselling in increasing and supporting the mental health, wellness, and happiness of the Canadian people. CCPA supports cultural diversity and the importance of foreign-trained healthcare professionals in mental health. We actively encourage and support the provision of services independently and in collaboration with other mental health professionals using a team approach based on client need.

 Our members are experts and specialists in numerous mental health areas related to both medical and DSM diagnoses and to traumatic life events and transitions (e.g., ADHD, PTSD, OCD, brain trauma, grief, anxiety, eating disorders, stress, depression, suicidality, anger, infertility, addiction, work-life balance, relationships) and they use a variety of titles in their daily work including counsellor, nurse, psychologist, social worker, professor, counselling therapist, psychotherapist, clinical counsellor, school counsellor, career counsellor, and many many more.

Counsellors and psychotherapists in our Association work in a variety of settings including rehabilitation centres, correctional services and industry, providing a diversity of services to clients across the lifespan including children, teens, adults, couples, families, and groups in a variety of settings. A large number of our members work in schools, colleges and universities. Others work for non-profit agencies and in private practice. Many members work in the employment sector and in employment assistance programs. Still others work in program development, counselling administration and government. 

What is Counselling and How Does it Fit in the Continuum of Care?

The continuum of care requires professional attention to timeliness, interdisciplinary cooperation, integration, and continuity of care based on elements that include the social, cultural, and emotional landscape and needs of the individual or group seeking assistance. The historic distinction between counselling and psychotherapy (1960s-1990s) has diminished in the 21^st century as therapeutic interventions, standards of practice and training requirements have evolved; most mental health practitioners now view their work on a continuum and many of our CCPA members use the terms counselling and psychotherapy interchangeably. Our psychotherapists and certified counsellors hold a shared vision, scope, and standard of practice based on aligned theoretical bases, established domains of competency, current professional ethics and practice.

The nationally validated definition of counselling speaks of “a relational process based upon the ethical use of specific professional competencies to facilitate human change. Counselling addresses wellness, relationships, personal growth, career development, mental health, and psychological illness or distress. The counselling process is characterized by the application of recognized cognitive, affective, expressive, somatic, spiritual, developmental, behavioural, learning, and systemic principles.” (http://www.ccpa-accp.ca/_documents/Symposium/).

Learn More Online and Join us in Nova Scotia

Our website for practitioners and persons interested in the counselling and psychotherapy profession is located at www.ccpa-accp.ca. We also host a public-facing website for members of the public who are curious about the profession of counselling and psychotherapy and how it might be of assistance to them. The public-facing website is located at www.talkingcanhelp.ca.

CCPA also hosts both research conferences and practice-based conferences. Our next national conference is May 14 – 17, 2013 at Westin’s Nova Scotian Hotel in Halifax, Nova Scotia. With more than 70 presenters and keynote speakers Michael Ungar, Slyvie Giasson and Martin Antony, the conference promises to deliver information related to the breadth and depth of the profession. To learn more or register for the conference, go to:

http://www.ccpa-accp.ca/conference/index.php.

Member Blog: The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists

What does occupational therapy have to do with mental health?

When someone thinks about the treatment of mental illness, occupational therapy doesn’t often come to mind. The CanadianAssociation of Occupational Therapists is hoping to change this because there is a critical role that occupational therapists can play in helping clients live full, active and more hopeful lives empowering them to determine their goals, lead their care, and work towards recovery.

Charting a new course

For individuals with mental illness, whether it is anxiety, psychosis, addiction or a mood disorder, finding solutions to everyday challenges can be overwhelming. These challenges are compounded by lack of understanding of mental health in general, and the stigma or fear associated with the unknown.

What is perhaps equally as frustrating in mental health is the journey of recovery never follows a straight line. Treatment options are complex and often require years of finding the right balance of medication, counseling, social support and self-driven research and learning. This is where occupational therapists provide value to mental health teams and can be an important solution to the complexity of mental illness.

Occupational therapists are highly educated health professionals who focus on maximizing the potential of individuals through engagement in activities (or occupations) of daily living. In other words, occupational therapists work with clients to set goals and find ways to do all the things one needs to do and wants to do each day from going to work or school, to recreation, to taking care of oneself or others.

Occupational therapy: Solutions for daily living

One might argue that recovery from mental illness is not simply about diagnosing a chemical imbalance or atypical functioning in the brain, but identifying coping strategies and working with clients to find a path that incorporates meaningful activities, supportive social interactions and positive environments which reduce triggers.

For someone who suffers from schizophrenia, for example, and occupational therapists can work with this individual to better understand environmental triggers and coping strategies to support their engagement in work or school, participate in social activities and know their limits in stressful situations.

Occupational therapists also work with families, health care providers, and stakeholder groups to educate and raise awareness about mental illness and barriers to mental health in the home, at work and in the community to promote supportive environments for clients.

Nominations for the Champions of Mental Health Awards Accepted for 2013

We have officially opened nominations for the Champions of Mental Health Awards for 2013.  The eleventh annual Champions Awards will bring together political decision makers, business leaders, members of the national media, sponsors and other stakeholders to celebrate individuals and organizations whose outstanding contributions have advanced the mental health agenda in Canada in the past year.

Each year, we honour a group of inspiring Canadians who work diligently to raise awareness about mental health and work to end the stigma associated with mental illness.  We are truly grateful for their efforts and these awards are a way to celebrate and recognize their remarkable contributions.

Our growing Champions alumnus represents some of the best advocates for mental health in Canada and each year this multi-disciplinary network of mental health experts grows.  This impressive scope of experts provides CAMIMH with a unique position to spread the conversation about mental illness into every region across Canada. This ever broadening network not only engages more mental health experts, but also demonstrates to Canadians the value of open discussion as a means to reducing stigma.

The gala to honour the 2013 Champions of Mental Health Awards recipients will be hosted on May 6^th 2013 at the Château Laurier.  The Champions of Mental Health Awards are a key component of CAMIMH’s annual awareness campaigns and are made possible through the generous support of its presenting sponsor Bell, as part of the Bell Let’s Talk mental health initiative.  In 2012, CAMIMH received a record 40 nominations and had the difficult task of choosing only five recipients.   The 2012 Champions Awards recipients included: Retired Senator W. David Angus, Scott Chisholm, founder of the Collateral Damage Project, Dr. Trang Dao, Psychiatric Researcher, Michael Landsberg, TSN Broadcaster and the Cardinal Newman Peer Mentors.

 Mental illness is an issue that reaches everyone.  One in five Canadians will experience a mental problem or disorder in a given year.  Even more will know someone who has.  We hope that by recognizing some of the work that is being done to raise awareness, end stigma and promote access to needed services and supports will make a difference for Canada’s mental health.

 To nominate a Champion or purchase tickets, please visit camimh.ca for details.  Submissions will be accepted until March 1^st, 2013 in several categories including private sector; public sector; research; community (individual), and; community (organization).

Member Blog: The Schizophrenia Society of Canada

The Schizophrenia Society of Canada (SSC) is a national registered charity that has been in operation since 1979. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for those affected by schizophrenia and psychosis through education, support programs, public policy and research. We work with 10 provincial societies to help individuals with schizophrenia and their families have a better quality of life while we search for a cure. At SSC we are committed to:

·         Raising awareness and educating the public to help reduce stigma and discrimination

·         Supporting families and individuals

·         Advocating for legislative change and improved treatment and services

·         Supporting research through the SSC Foundation and other independent efforts

Schizophrenia and psychosis are serious mental illnesses. Three percent of Canadian men and women will experience psychosis. One in one hundred will experience some form of schizophrenia. While these conditions are rare in childhood, they usually have their onset in the mid-to late teen years.

Mental illnesses are real. The heartache is real that families struggle with. But recovery...living beyond the limitations of mental illness is possible. People living with mental illnesses like schizophrenia and psychosis have talents, goals and feelings just like anyone else. Yet mental illness can have a profoundly negative effect, not only in the lives of those living with it, but their families and their communities. Individuals living with mental illness and their families are often shunned, becoming the targets of social prejudice. People living with schizophrenia may also face poverty, homelessness and high risk for suicide.

In Canada mental health services are in short supply, especially recovery-oriented mental health services. The solutions are complex, not simple, because mental illnesses are complex as are all humans. As humans we are not just "biochemical." We are body (biological), mind (psychological), social (sociological), spirit (spiritual) and relational (communal). To reduce human behaviour or treatment down to one mere dimension is "reductionistic," a fatal philosophy. "Ask not what illness a person has, but rather what person the illness has." Mental health services have to be holistic, geared towards the totality of what it means to be human.

Recovery is more possible when all issues of life are addressed from a compassionate, healing perspective. Many people with enduring mental illness need the help of medication, but just as many if not more need hope, acceptance, social inclusion, a safe place to live, adequate income, help with unresolved trauma, addictions, spiritual healing, and a “relationship” with their mental health service provider or those who attempt to help. Much of what they need is not found in a medication. Love, healing and acceptance are more than medication. There are many people on medications who are not happy or leading a life of quality, but living in bondage to some of the things listed above. And yet, many people are blessed by having a medication that helps in their recovery!

For more information please visit:
www.schizophrenia.ca  or camimh.ca

Face-to-Face with Alicia Raimundo

My name is Alicia Raimundo, and I have been through an interesting life for a 23 year old.  Growing up, I had a great family who provided anything I could ever need or want for.  I had a great education from both the public and private school systems. However, I was a different kid.  For as long as I can remember I did not experience the joys and happiness the other kids did.  I spent much of my time worrying about not being about to cheer myself up and hating myself for not being perfect.  I was the kid that no one really noticed, who starved for some sort of attention from my peers or teachers. In my darkest days, I remember wishing that someone would bully me, so that someone would notice me.  When I tried to make friends, I was so anxious about not being good enough that I would brag or put down the other kid to try and show them that I could be good enough. This, of course, did not work. I shut down, and just assumed that I could not make friends. 

 At that point, the loneliness, anxiety and depression took over and I decided that I should not be alive anymore.  I spent time speaking to professionals and trying to get up the courage to take my own life when I encountered a woman in a therapy office. She looked at me and said “from one crazy person to another, you will need this” and handed me a necklace that said hope.  Hope was something that I never had, well, other than hoping for more cookies as a young kid.  At that moment, I knew I could not give up on myself until I had tried breaking my life into smaller goals to hope for.  As I was working out this plan in my mind the woman’s daughter came up to me and said “I am sorry, my mom is in a manic phase and is giving away her stuff… can I have the necklace back”.  This woman and her daughter saved my life, and they will never know it.  I hoped to watch my sister graduate from high school ( which happened two years ago) and now I hope to stay here to show others that living doesn’t have to be so hard.  I am empowered by many great youth centric organizations like MindYourMInd and have many tactics in place to combat my bad days.

Recovery is possible because we are all mental health superheroes. We fight our illnesses like the bad guys in comic books and we are strong enough to make it to today, to reading this blog post. Recovery is easier, when we can fight our bad guys without a mask. When we feel comfortable enough in our communities that fighting a mental illness is okay, and not something to be ashamed of.  Our society is not there yet, but with great events like MIAW, amazing charities, and companies like Bell we will get there one day soon.  We need to make it so people don’t have to choose between getting better or having respect of society.  We need to allow them to be Iron Men and Woman. To fight their illness, their bad guys, and have respect for being strong enough to achieve everything in spite of it. 

Face-to-Face with Laurie Pinard

Hi, my name is Laurie and I live with mental illness. My story is about hope. My story is about the fight. I’m a 44 year old woman who has fought my way back to health from the edge of despair and darkness. I lost everything I had and I almost lost my life. I am here to give hope to anyone who suffers with mental illness that it is possible to get well and lead a fulfilling, productive life.

I used to have a big life but lost it all – my career in politics, my money, my possessions and most of my relationships due to mental illness. I suffered for years from bipolar disorder until I hit rock bottom in 2009. I have tried to commit suicide more than once and was hospitalized numerous times. It wasn’t until my 40’s that I admitted I needed help and sought it.

I never believed I could get better. I never believed in hope or the possibility of a healthy existence. All I saw was darkness. My mind didn’t work. My body was in constant pain. I was a broken person. How could it be possible that I could ever get better? Well, I proved myself wrong and slowly but surely began to get my health and sanity back.

The road to wellness began slowly. As each day progressed I put one foot in front of the other and made progress towards stability. Some of the help I received included a great psychiatrist, an incredible therapist, the loving support of my parents, a steady regime of nutritional supplements, a great deal of restful sleep, and lots of physical exercise. However, the single most important element of my recovery was me. I decided to finally take responsibility for every aspect of my life, my illness, my recovery, my treatment – absolutely everything. It was this decision to face my fears and choose to live instead of giving into the darkness that made the difference in my recovery.  I decided to change my attitude from being a victim of this illness to being an advocate of healthy living despite having a mental illness disability.

Responsibility meant working harder than I’ve ever worked before. It meant getting up when I didn’t want to. It meant facing fears I was terrified of. It meant pushing myself despite the hardships. The key to my health and recovery was accepting responsibility and fighting for a life I dreamed of. I wanted to be healthy, strong, and independent and I wanted to thrive. The only way I was going to achieve those goals was to fight – fight, fight, fight!

Today I am proud to say I’m a running instructor who motivates others. I’ve also returned to university in the field of social work. I want to become a social worker to help others like me who struggle with mental illness challenges. I still have bipolar disorder but today I have learned how to live with it and create a life I thrive at. Each day is still hard, but since deciding to face my fears and embrace difficult challenges I have developed the strength to work with my disability and face life head-on. Anyone, absolutely anyone can come back from the depths of despair to live and thrive. I did.

Face-to-Face with Sandra Yuen MacKay

            My name is Sandra Yuen MacKay and I have schizoaffective disorder, a combination of schizophrenia and a mood disorder. The teenage onset of my illness was gradual–so much that I believed the voices and ideas in my head were real. Even after being diagnosed, I was entrenched in my false beliefs. Still I took my medication and fought to keep my head above water and live as normal a life as I could. My family suffered with me every time I experienced a crisis or ended up back in the hospital. It wasn't until my last major relapse at the age of 32, I realized I had to change my negativity and self-critical attitude if I was going to improve. I exercised at the gym and swam, introduced positive self-talk, learned about recovery, and rekindled my interest in painting. I began to write and get published. I made new friends. Recovery to me meant having purpose and happiness in life, finding a niche, and social inclusion. I redefined who I was as an artist, writer and public speaker. By becoming pro-active in my own recovery and aiding others by sharing my story, I evolved into a more confident, resilient, and mature Sandra.

            Nowadays, when I have an interfering thought, I question it. Is it true or part of paranoia? Is it similar to other delusions I've had in the past? Am I stressed about something else which is causing me to have a symptom?

            Everyone's story is different. There are mental health consumers who can't work and can't afford food or other needs even with disability assistance. But I believe recovery is possible with newer medications, improved care and supports, and increased government funding. If their basic needs are met, consumers have a better chance to recover. In British Columbia, Vancouver Coastal Health has opened over 200 new tertiary mental health beds, which will offer consumers holistic care and give them the tools to reintegrate into the community when they are ready. But there is more work to be done.

            The sooner one gets help the better the prognosis. Support from family and friends was crucial in my case. First, I had to believe in myself, educate myself about mental illness and create a wellness toolbox including a daily maintenance plan to keep well, stress management, coping strategies, and access to proper medication. I recognized small successes and replaced self-stigma with a better self-image and opened the door to take on new challenges.

            This year I also received the Courage to Come Back Award in the mental health category for people who have faced severe adversity, risen above it and given back to the community.

            To learn more about my memoir, My Schizophrenic Life: The Road to Recovery from Mental Illness, and my art, please visit my blog at: http://symackay.blogspot.com

Face-to-Face with Chantal Poitras

My name is Chantal Poitras. I am 31 years old and I live in Fredericton, New-Brunswick. I suffer from Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). When Mental illness came into my life in 2005, I felt that my life was falling apart. This is when I realized that something was wrong with me, but what? At the beginning, I was told that I suffered from a mild depression, due to my job and various events that happened that year.

I got over it, found another job, but still, something was not quite right with me. My behavior was often erratic and my suicidal thoughts were constantly present. A friend then told me about BPD and said that many of my behaviors seemed to fit the description I gave her. I started to do some research on the Internet. I read everything I could find on BPD. I finally had to admit it to myself. I probably had BPD.

In 2010, I went to see a psychologist. I told her I suspected I had BPD. She asked me to do several tests and came to the conclusion that indeed, I had BPD with depression, anxiety and aggressiveness. However, it was only in January 2012 that this diagnosis was added to my medical file. Now, I can finally have the appropriate therapy for BPD, a group therapy named STEPPS.

Recovery is possible, but you have to work hard. You have to seek the help that works for you. The first step I took towards my own recovery was to send an email to the Canadian Mental Health Association in my area. I felt lost, I did not know where to find the help I needed and they took care of me. They knocked on doors for me when I did not have the strength to do it myself. It is important to talk to someone who can help you find the help you need, if you are not able do it for yourself.

Living with mental illness is difficult, yet not impossible. Life can still be beautiful, but you have to accept that there will always be ups and downs, more so than for most people. You can still accomplish great things, have a full time job, a family and friends, and most important, you can realize your dreams. However, you must seek help, always continue therapy treatments, even if sometimes it is hell; it takes time, but eventually, hope returns.

The Blue Veil - by Leigh Turgeon

The Blue Veil cannot be allowed to oppress,

So listen, understand, you could change a life.

-The Blue Veil, 2012, Leigh Turgeon

I have personally been dealing with depression for a long time. At first I was unaware of what was happening to me and felt terribly alone even in a crowd of people. I wanted to cry when all my friends were laughing. Then I attempted to get help and was told I would be taking medication for the rest of my life, news which in itself was even more depressing. It felt like I was slipping and sliding down a dark path alone and I could not go back or even change my direction it was just down, down, down.

One night, on a very rare occasion that I had gone out with my friends, I sat there looking around the table and it dawned on me that none of my closest friends, confidants, former roommates had a clue of the inner turmoil that I was dealing with, I had successfully ‘veiled’ this pain from them until I had totally isolated the sadness internally. I longed to be in touch with these women again. As I looked around the table I envied their happiness. So at that moment I blurted out, “So, I have depression…I’ve had it for a while…and I am going to write a book about it and call it ‘The Blue Veil.’ Everyone sat there stunned at my admission, but wow did it feel good! So, ‘The Blue Veil’ was born.

I would never want anyone to ever felt as alone, trapped and misunderstood as had felt. I wanted to promote depression awareness on three levels. The three levels of awareness I mean are depression self-awareness, depression awareness for family and friends living with a depressed person, and depression awareness in the community, such as in the workplace, community or school environments.

Well, I am one person. While it is my goal to have ‘The Blue Veil’ have a global reach, I chose to support 15 depression awareness organizations to support with proceeds from the book, as they are all organizations that provide support for people with depression and anxiety and victims left behind by suicide. Most of them are national organizations for six different nations including the U.S., England, Scotland, Ireland, Canada and Australia. All of them are established, legitimate organizations which have helped hundreds of thousands of people and I am proud to associate my story and experience with them. I never wrote the book to make money. I wrote it so that no one ever feels trapped behind the Blue Veil, stifled by depression the way I did on that night out with my friends, when it dawned on me that none of my closest friends had a clue of my inner turmoil.

I, as it turns out, will not be taking medication for the rest of my life. Did you know that depression can have remission? I am now walking on a lighter path and I could head in any direction I want. All I know is that it will be forward, forward, forward.

10th Annual Champions of Mental Health Awards Gala: A Great Success!

The Champions of Mental Health Awards Gala, held on May 7, 2012 at the Chateau Laurier, was once again an overwhelming success! This year marked the 10th anniversary of Champions and the event was met with an outpouring of support and recognition. The Gala brought together prominent political figures, business leaders, members of the national media, and sponsors to recognize and celebrate the outstanding efforts of individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to the advancement of the mental health agenda in Canada.

Several public figures attended the Gala this year in support of Canada’s mental health community, with 32 Parliamentarians in attendance including Green Party Leader Elizabeth May, Minister of Labour the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Finance the Honourable Jim Flaherty, and House Leader the Honourable Peter Van Loan. The Gala also included a few new elements from previous years, including a red carpet arrival for guests and the addition of a reception room where guests could mingle and pose for photographs. Photographs from the evening are available for viewing at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/miawcanada/

We were please to recognize five exceptional Champions this year, each of them having worked tirelessly to increase awareness surrounding the importance of mental health and to create positive changes in their own mental health community. This year’s winners in each of the five categories were:

Community Individual: Michael Landsberg, TSN Broadcaster
Community Organization: Cardinal Newman Peer Mentors, Stoney Creek,
Ontario Public Sector Individual: Senator W. David Angus, Q.C., Ad E.
Private Sector Individual: Scott Chisholm, Founder of the Collateral Damage Project
Researcher: Dr. Trang Dao, Psychiatric Researcher and Advocate for the Mentally Ill

We would like to offer our most sincere congratulations to this year’s winners, and a heartfelt thank you to all nominees for their support, dedication and commitment to Canada’s mental health!

The Champions of Mental Health Awards Gala would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors – Bell as our presenting sponsor and the generous contributions of RBC, Janssen, Rx&D and Eli Lilly.

The Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health Promotes the 10th Annual Champions of Mental Health Awards Campaign

CAMIMH Seeks Nominations for the Latest Champions of Mental Health

The Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH) is excited to have launched the tenth annual Champions of Mental Health Awards and is looking for nominations from members of the public!

The annual Champions Awards are a national awards gala which brings together political decision makers, business leaders, members of the national media, sponsors and other stakeholders to celebrate individuals and organizations whose exceptional support have advanced the mental health agenda in Canada in the past year.

This is a unique opportunity for Canadians from all regions and backgrounds to nominate an individual or an organization that they think has made a remarkable contribution to mental health in Canada. In extraordinary numbers, Canadians are coming forward to help advance the mental health programs in this country and to reduce the stigma that has been associated with mental illness for far too long

The Champions Awards are held in Ottawa each year with awards given to individuals or organizations who have contributed significantly to Canada’s mental health agenda. Past Champions include The Right Honourable Stephen Harper, the Honourable Lisa Raitt, and Margaret Trudeau, among many others.

This year, the national gala for the Champions Awards, will be held at the Château Laurier on May 7th, 2012. Nominations are accepted in several categories, including private sector; public sector; research; community (individual), and; community (organization).

To nominate a Champion, please visit www.miaw.ca for details. Submissions will be accepted until March 31st, 2012. The Champions Awards winners will be selected on April 10th, 2012.

For more information or to book tickets, please contact:

Kalene Tilson, Champions Awards Organizing Committee
Tel. : 613-233-8906 Email: champions@miaw.ca

Meet Bethany Butzer

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 Butzer

I'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 I've made it my mission to motivate others to achieve their highest level of mental fitness.

My book, The Antidepressant Antidote, chronicles my personal struggles with anxiety, depression and a dependence on antidepressant medication. I also share how I finally managed to get off the medication for good.

I truly believe that everyone is meant to enjoy optimum mental health. All of the products and services that I offer, from my writing, speaking engagements and research projects to my yoga classes for anxiety and stress, are geared toward making the world a better place by nourishing and honoring our mental wellness.

I received my Ph.D. in psychology in 2008 from the University of Western Ontario, Canada. My early research focused on anxiety and depression, which was, as you might imagine, somewhat depressing! So, after spending several years studying psychopathology, I changed my focus to positive psychology, which emphasizes the development of human strength and potential. My dissertation research on the psychology of romantic relationships garnered the Martin E. P. Seligman Award for Outstanding Dissertation Research in Positive Psychology.

After receiving my Ph.D., I originally planned on becoming a psychology professor. But the ivory tower lifestyle just didn't feel right for me. I wanted my work to be consumed by and have an impact on the general public. So I turned down a fully-funded postdoctoral research position to take a job in the private sector as a Research Analyst for Info-Tech Research Group, a leading IT Research Firm.

After almost 2 years in the private sector, I realized that the 9 to 5 cubicle life wasn't for me either. So I made the bold (and scary!) decision to quit my job to start my own business as a Mental Health & Wellness Advisor. Following my passion has been an amazing journey filled with both incredible joy and the occasional dark night of the soul.

Today, I fill my days doing what I love: writing, speaking and research. As an example, I'm currently collaborating with Kripalu's Institute for Extraordinary Living, Harvard Medical School and the Yoga Care Foundation to conduct studies on the effects of yoga on well-being.

I'm also a certified yoga teacher and have completed over 200 hours of training in yoga postures, philosophy, breathing techniques, meditation, anatomy, and ayurveda. I've also received life coaching training from the Coaches Training Institute (CTI), and I have my first degree Reiki certification. I'm a member of the Canadian Yoga Alliance (CYA) and the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT).

In addition to my book, I've published professional papers in several leading psychological journals, including Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin and Personal Relationships. I've also won numerous national and international awards for my achievements.

A unique aspect of my approach is that I've not only studied the topics that I'm passionate about - I've also lived through them. I combine my professional training with my personal experience to provide products and services that are both empathetic and backed up by solid research. I've personally overcome the obstacles of a rocky childhood, anxiety, depression, and a dependence on antidepressant medication. I've experienced grief, loss, abuse, abandonment, burnout, and almost everything in between. I've been to doctors, therapists, psychiatrists, and http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifI've tried many forms of alternative medicine. And I've come out on the other side.

Based on my familiarity with both the dark and light sides of life, my style is down to earth and approachable, and I have an extensive knowledge of the services that are available to those in need.

To connect with Bethany or learn more, you can visit her website http://www.bethanybutzer.com/.

You can share your story by connecting with us on Facebook at the Face It: Mental Illness Awareness Page, or on Twitter, @MIAWCanada .

Road to Learning: challenging stigma and discrimination

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 schools to help 9,000 kids. Thanks to this money, these workers will be able to offer training for educators on how to identify mental health issues. This is a great way to promote education, prevention, and early intervention! If teachers can begin to educate students and raise awareness in the classroom, it will certainly help some children feel more comfortable seeking help.

Young people need a place where they can openly discuss what they’re feeling without being judged. A healthy school environment can help to improve students’ well-being. We’re thrilled to see a provincial government tackling these issues. This strategy will build awareness, help to reduce stigma, and identify problems early on.

How important do you think it is for educators to be trained to identify mental health issues?

Healthy Body = Healthy Mind

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 depression or anxiety. Exercise can also help our bodies deal with stress. One recent study revealed that taking a short eight minute walk can help decrease tension and boost your mood. Even short bursts of exercise can make a difference, which means you don’t have to spend long hours at the gym!

Tips:

• Exercise 20 minutes a day, or 30 minutes three times a week to help boost your energy;
• Remember physical activity can include a range of things like playing outside with your children or pet(s), dancing to your favourite music, gardening, or going for a brisk walk;
• Increase your motivation by going with a friend;
• Keep a journal to track your progress;
• Get out there and have fun!

Do you think exercise has a positive influence on your mental health?

Great news! New government funding for kids’ mental health

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 investing millions in funding to support positive mental health for children and youth.

Thanks to this funding, so many great community projects will be able to continue providing much needed mental health support services! One project, Handle with Care, offers training for parents and other caregivers in communities that are prone to stress and mental illness, including newcomers to Canada. The program assists people from coast to coast to better understand how to support children living with mental illness. We’re so pleased that this, and many more programs, will benefit from this government funding!

Share your thoughts: Do you know any programs in your community that are helping kids overcome mental health challenges?

Overcoming challenges

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 that indicate that men, in particular, may face different issues than women.

What do YOU think are the major challenges to seeking help or finding support for mental health issues? What are some of the ways you can overcome them?

Marc's Story

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, and engages in society. Chemical imbalances and heredity are thought to be contributing factors regarding mental illness. I first experienced mental illness visiting my mother in the hospital when I was a kid. She has manic depression, a.k.a. bipolar disorder. I have chronic depression and take meds daily, for me, my downward spiral began in high school, and it’s been an uphill battle ever since, even being hospitalized a few times. I want to talk openly about it because it is a very real thing in our society, it has affected me and my family my entire life. It’s something that should no longer be ignored or frowned upon in society. Unless you’ve experienced it, you wouldn’t understand what it’s like. It can be very difficult having a mental illness, and/or living with someone who has it, or even knowing someone who has it.

The stigma (ignorance) that still exists in society today is why depression is treated differently than diabetes, cancer or other harmful physical illnesses. It isn’t fair because all illnesses affect a person’s health to a certain degree, no matter the severity. Mental illness does scare me, speaking from experience, as it relates to depression, I’ve had suicidal thoughts countless times, but I’ve managed to survive one way or another, I would say primarily with the support and love of my parents, especially my dad. I believe people can recover from a mental illness, with the right medications and psychotherapy, their lives and symptoms, including emotional and thought patterns, can be controlled. My emotions vary from anger to loneliness to guilt surrounding mental illness, including depression in particular, which to this day I still struggle with, some 20+ years later, perhaps even longer, as it relates back to an event in my pre-teen years, when me and my family moved, for the first time. My mother has struggled with bipolar for 35+ years roughly.

Lastly, I still know when something’s wrong, it’s like she becomes a completely different person, similar to someone being drunk and affected greatly by alcohol. I am currently an award-winning volunteer and aspiring writer. I live the http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifonly way I know how to now, throughhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif thick and thin, one day at a time, good, or still bad.


You can share your story with us by connecting with us on Facebook at the Face It: Mental Illness Awareness Page, or on Twitter, @MIAWCanada .

www.mentalwellness.ca

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, www.mentalwellness.ca features a series of videos called “Spend A Day In My Life”. These four videos reflect everyday scenarios experienced through the eyes of someone with schizophrenia – being at the doctor’s office, on the bus, at the pharmacy, and being in the midst of a schizophrenic “mindstorm”. Watching these videos allows you to step into the mind of someone living with schizophrenia.

Take a moment to visit the website and tell us what you think. Does experiencing these everyday moments from inside schizophrenia give you a different perspective on the disease and the people who live with it? How can videos like these help promote awareness about schizophrenia?