Mental Illness Awareness Week | October 6 – 12, 2024

Access for All: Time for Action, Time for Change

Illness, which arises from a mental health or addiction problem, can affect all aspects of a person’s life, from an overall experience of well-being to relationships, from employment opportunities to life expectancy. Let’s work together to create a culture of understanding and acceptance.

Mental health, refers to our overall well-being. It’s possible to experience poor mental health without having a mental illness, and conversely, individuals with a diagnosed mental illness can also have good mental health. Mental illness, on the other hand, refers to diagnoses that can significantly affect a person’s thinking, mood, or behavior. These conditions can vary in severity and include disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, among others.

Twenty-six years ago, in 1999, the Brandon Mental Health Center closed its doors. This closure was a result of a “Deinstitutionalization Movement.” People recognized that long-term mental health facilities harmed the human right of freedom of the individual. Once admitted, patients could spend the rest of their lives in an institution, isolated from their communities and families, and subject to care that could be coercive or harmful. This practice also increased stigma in the community. People were treated differently or made to feel ashamed of their illness.

Stigma results in fewer opportunities for work, school, social activities, or housing. It can cause bullying or violence. It isolates people, and it may increase the risk of exploitation. Stigma reinforces a false belief that a person cannot or will not be successful in overcoming challenges or succeeding in their goals. Stigma, discrimination, and harmful experiences – particularly in childhood – can reduce mental wellness.

Mental illness is on the rise in Canada. For example, between 2012 and 2022, the prevalence of Generalized Anxiety Disorder doubled, from 2.6% to 5.2%. If you have not had personal experience with a mental illness, it is likely you know somebody who has. In 2022, 18% of Canadians 15 and over met the diagnostic criteria for a mood, anxiety, or substance use disorder in the prior 12 months (Mental disorders and access to mental health care (statcan.gc.ca)).

People who live with mental illness may not have similar access to conditions that support health compared to someone who does not have a mental illness. Researchers have identified these conditions as the “social determinants of mental health.” Income, employment, education, food security and nutrition, social support and connections, and physical and psychological safety, particularly in childhood, are all essential factors that can promote – or harm – our mental health.

By improving access to life factors promoting health, we can increase the well-being of our communities, families, and ourselves. There are practical steps we can all take to improve the mental health of ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities:

Get Informed!

Listen to the people around you. Taking time to hear stories can provide valuable insight into the symptoms and challenges associated with mental illness or mental distress. You will hear about a variety of ways that people find support during challenging times, and you will hear about the barriers people are experiencing in real-time.
Stigma and discrimination cause harm. The Ontario Human Rights Commission has more information about the historical harms of mental health discrimination in Appendix A: Historical context | Ontario Human Rights Commission (ohrc.on.ca).
PMH and partners are committed to addressing access and equity for differing needs in our region. We are in the process of, and have, shifted our system to improve access for those in highest need, and together with our provincial partners, are developing new access, intake, assessment and coordination systems. PMH currently provides a robust number of Mental Health and Addictions services with a framework that spans Crisis & Emergency, Acute and Specialized and Community-Based Services, and continues to advocate for additional available services in the region for all citizens. For a complete listing of services available, please visit www.prairiemountainhealth.ca.

Get Connected!

Strong social connections increase well-being and can also increase life expectancy.

Shared Health has developed a Mental Health and Wellness Resource Finder, available online at Mental Health Resource Finder – Shared Health (sharedhealthmb.ca)
Consider education like Mental Health First Aid or SafeTALK. For more information, go to Public Classes – Prairie Mountain Health

Get Active!

Self-care is an essential first step in improving wellness in our community. Consider your nutrition, activity, coping, and personal connections and develop a plan if there are areas you would like to improve. Reach out to your community for information or to share your journey!
Consider participating with local organizations and committees working to improve mental health and wellness in your community.
- Mental Illness Awareness Week is October 6-12. The theme is “Access for All: Time for Action, Time for Change”. Consider participating in activities occurring during this week and into the Fall.

If you or a loved one need support, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. There are resources available.

In an emergency, always call 911 or contact your local hospital or health office.

Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call 9-8-8 for support, available to all Canadians in English and French, 24/7.

Manitoba Suicide Prevention and Support Line: Reach out at 1-877-435-7170, a crisis line available 24 hours a day.

Westman Crisis Services: For local support in the Brandon area, contact 204-725-4411 or 1-888-379-7699.

PMH-North: You can also reach 1-866-332-3030 for services in the PMH-North area.

Events

Online Presentation – What is Mental Illness?

Tuesday, Oct. 8

12:00-1:00 pm

What is mental illness? What kinds of mental illnesses are there and what do they look like? What are some common myths about mental illness, and how can we reduce the stigma around mental illness? As part of Mental Illness Awareness Week (October 6-12), join us for a free online lunch-hour presentation that looks at these questions and more.

Visit https://www.cmhaacrossmb.ca/events/mental-illness-presentation/ to register.

Online Course – Insights into Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Wednesday, Oct. 9

7:00-8:30 pm

This free online course will define seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and present practical strategies and skills for better health & well-being during the winter months.

Visit https://www.cmhaacrossmb.ca/events/online-course-insights-into-sad/ to register.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | September 30

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation resources — *Click on image to enlarge*

Prairie Mountain Health is located on the original lands of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, and Dakota peoples and the homeland of the Métis Nation.

Prairie Mountain Health has committed to begin the work of reconciliation with the Indigenous people and communities in our region.

Many generations of First Nations, Métis and Inuit children were forcibly placed in more than 130 residential schools in a calculated effort to eradicate Indigenous languages and cultures from the 1870s to 1996.

In June 2021, the Government of Canada passed Bill C-5 to name September 30 the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to recognize the past harms and wrongs inflicted on Indigenous children in residential schools by making it a federal statutory holiday.

September 30, also known as Orange Shirt Day, acknowledges Phyllis Webstad’s story that started the movement.

To commemorate the children who never returned home, survivors of residential schools, and those impacted by this legacy, WEAR ORANGE to show your commitment to reconciliation.

Take a moment to reflect on what reconciliation means to you and how you can advance reconciliation in the workplace and in your community.

Reconciliation is inevitable, though it is how we choose to make the relationship with Indigenous people that matters.
Nellie Kopitz – Regional Manager of Indigenous Health, Prairie Mountain Health

Events Throughout Our Region

This is a small list of many events happening within our region. We encourage you to participate in events in your community. If you are an event organizer, please email [email protected] to have your event added to this list.

Birdtail Sioux Dakota Nation – The 2024 Reconciliation Run will take place on September 28th. Contact [email protected] for more information or visit www.reconciliationrun.ca to learn more.
Brandon Urban Aboriginal Peoples’ Council – Monday, September 30 to Friday, October 4. Visit the BUAPC Facebook page to stay up to date and see the full schedule. See Truth and Reconciliation Week poster for more information.

Links

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – Government of Canada.ca

National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation

World Suicide Prevention Day | September 10, 2024

People talking about suicide prevention.

World Suicide Prevention Day is September 10. Across the Prairie Mountain Health region, numerous activities are planned in September to recognize the importance of suicide prevention.

The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day is Changing the Narrative on Suicide– with a Call to Action- #starttheconversation. The theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of changing the narrative surrounding suicide and transforming how we perceive this complex issue. Changing the narrative requires systemic change and support. – 1. as outlined by the International Association for Suicide Prevention.

So, let’s start the conversation today. No matter how small, every chat builds a more supportive and understanding society. Together, we can make a difference and prioritize suicide prevention, ensuring everyone gets the help they need. Starting the conversation is a crucial opportunity to shift the narrative around suicide and mental health. Changing the narrative involves addressing several key aspects:

Reducing Stigma: One of the main goals is to break down the stigma associated with mental health issues and suicide. By encouraging open discussions and normalizing conversations about mental health, we can help individuals feel more comfortable seeking help and support.
Promoting Awareness: Increased awareness about the signs of mental health crises and the resources available for help can make a significant difference. Educational opportunities such as safeTALK and Mental Health First Aid can inform people about how to recognize when someone might be at risk and how to approach and support them effectively.
Empowering Conversations: Shifting the narrative means fostering compassionate and non-judgmental conversations. Focusing on listening and understanding is important rather than offering quick solutions or judgments. This can help create a safe space for those struggling to open up.
Highlighting Stories of Hope: Sharing stories of recovery and hope can inspire others and show that change is possible. Hearing about others who have overcome similar struggles can encourage and demonstrate that seeking help can lead to positive outcomes.
Encouraging Help-Seeking Behavior: Emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength rather than weakness can encourage people to reach out when they need support. It’s essential to make mental health resources and professional help more accessible and less intimidating. Share SPIN power cards with others! Request on the SPIN website.
Supporting Survivors: Providing support to those who have lost loved ones to suicide is also a vital part of changing the narrative. Check out the SPIN website for more information about the Suicide Bereavement Support Group in Brandon.

By addressing these areas, World Suicide Prevention Day can help reshape how society views and responds to suicide and mental health challenges, ultimately leading to better support systems and reduced rates of suicide.

Talking about suicide is difficult, but there are things you can do. You can listen to people with a non-judgmental ear and remind the person you care for them. You can check in with people regularly to see how they are doing and listen supportively. You do not need to have all the answers. You can let others know they are not alone. You can be aware of resources in your area and introduce people to those resources.

Events in Brandon:

In Brandon, The Suicide Prevention Implementation Network (SPIN) Is offering a chance for everyone to join us in promoting awareness about suicide. On Friday, September 6, in honour of World Suicide Prevention Day, we hope to create a safe space for the community to come together to find resources, remember loved ones, or support others who have been touched by suicide. We will meet in the Cultural Room of the A.R. McDiarmid Civic Complex, 638 Princess Avenue, from 11:30 am- 1:00 pm SPIN has some light snacks and activities structured around having difficult conversations and Instilling hope and wellness in the community. During this event, SPIN will also present special recognition awards to those nominated for making a difference in our community by actively advocating for suicide prevention and life promotion.

SPIN Is also hosting a FREE 3-hour safeTALK training – Monday, September 9, from 5 pm – 8 pm at the Elspeth Reid Family Resource Centre. This educational opportunity will help you to be ready to reach out to someone thinking about suicide, overcome attitudes that act as barriers to help, talk openly about suicide and identify and connect people to resources in your area. SPACE is limited; register by emailing [email protected]

Clothing fundraiser – New SPIN signature sweaters, shirts and tumblers available. Funds raised will go towards providing Suicide Alertness training for the community. Please email [email protected] for more information or check SPIN social media for details. Or click on the link: SPIN Brandon | Westman Promotions | powered by OrderMyGear (itemorder.com)

Candlelight Vigil – On Friday, September 6^th, Westman Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Association is hosting a gathering at the Brandon University Garden on 18^th Street in front of the Clark Hall Building at 7:30 pm. They will be giving out candles, and collecting names in memorial (optional to provide). The group will then walk to Stanley Park (8:00 pm) for a reading of names and a moment of silence to be held at the park. Candles for this event will also be made available at the SPIN event earlier in the day.

Events happening in some PMH rural and northern communities:

Chalk the Walk– happening in Ste. Rose, Swan River, Roblin, and Dauphin. Community members or businesses interested in participating can pick chalk up from their local HERO Club or Community Health office in Swan River, Roblin and Dauphin, and the Community Health office in Ste. Rose. Chalk the Walk does not have a set date and will run from September 4 to 11th in these communities.

Awareness Walks – happening on September 10 from 12-1 pm in Swan River & Dauphin.

If you are struggling or concerned about someone else’s suicidal thoughts, do not hesitate to reach out for help.

Contact the Manitoba Suicide Prevention and Support Line at 1-877-435-7170, a crisis line available 24 hours per day. A trained crisis worker will listen to you and direct you to the needed resources.

PMH Resources contact Westman Crisis Services at 204-725-4411 or 1-888-379-7699 in the Brandon Area or 1-866-332-3030 for PMH-North- Call 911 or contact a local hospital or health office.

NEW: 988-suicide crisis line available to all Canadians in English and French, 24 hours a day and seven days a week. It will offer trauma-informed and culturally appropriate services by trained crisis responders by phone or text.

Prairie Mountain Health- North Mental Wellness and Crisis Resources

Prairie Mountain Health- Mental health: child, adult, and senior’s mental health
Prairie Mountain Health- workshops, training, and clinics
Canadian Mental Health Association- CMHA Swan Valley – Mental Health for All
Hope for Wellness Helpline- Crisis support available for Indigenous people
Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba- programming, peer support, and resources
Peer Connections Manitoba- Peer Connections Manitoba – Your Connection to Wellness (peerconnectionsmb.ca)
Kids Help phone- youth crisis support and skill building resource

Manitoba Suicide Line	1-877-435-7170
Sexual Assault Crisis Line	1-888-292-7565
Klinic Crisis Line	1-866-367-3276
Manitoba Farm & Rural Stress Line	1-888-322-3019
Manitoba Addictions Help Line	1-855-662-6605
Kids Help Phone	1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
First Nations & Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line	1-855-242-3310
Reason to Live	reasontolive.ca

1. International Association for Suicide Prevention. (2024). World suicide prevention day 2024. https://www.iasp.info/wspd/

2. International Association for Suicide Prevention. (2024). Resources: World suicide prevention day banners. https://www.iasp.info/WSPD/resources/

Follow SPIN social media: Twitter: @brandon_spin Instagram: Spin_Brandon Facebook: spinbrandon Call: 204-578-2599 or email: [email protected]

International Overdose Awareness Day – IOAD

International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) – held on August 31 every year – is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died and acknowledge the grief of family and friends left behind.

This year’s theme for 2024 is “Together We Can,” highlighting the power of our community when we all stand together in support of those connected to the tragedy of overdose. No one should stand alone in our fight to end overdose.

While every individual action matters greatly, coming together as an international community creates a powerful collective action. One that moves us with greater speed toward our shared goal of preventing and, ultimately, ending all overdoses.

For people who use drugs and those who don’t. For heartbroken friends and family members of lost loved ones. For activists who fight for sorely needed policy reform. For healthcare and harm reduction workers. For tireless advocates. Overdose can affect anyone, and we encourage you to remember the tenacity of our community. Lean into the power that we can have when we work together.

This August 31, reach out and connect with others in your local community and join the global IOAD movement. Our collective voices are stronger, louder, and the most impactful when brought together. Join us in continuing to be a part of the change. Get Involved – International Overdose Awareness Day (overdoseday.com) has other options for getting involved, resources, and campaign materials available if you’d like to host an event in your community.

On August 1^, Brandon and Area Gone Too Soon and Substance Use Awareness will be hosting an event at Dinsdale Park at 5:30. All are invited to put up purple ribbons and pictures of those who have died due to toxic drugs and or substance-related harms. You can also add your loved one’s name and/or photo to the local campaign by emailing [email protected]. Visit the Brandon and Area Gone Too Soon and Substance Use Awareness Facebook page.

Let’s remember, together, we can end overdose.

#TogetherWeCan #EndOverdose #IOAD2024

https://www.overdoseday.com

Events around the region

National Indigenous Peoples Day, June 21, 2024

With the arrival of June 21 comes the summer solstice, the longest day of the year.

Annually, June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples’ Day (NIPD).

Indigenous people acknowledge the teachings of the four seasons by their representation on the medicine wheel. Summer is a time of growth and warmth. NIPD provides the experience to grow in awareness and understanding and build relationships as people come together to celebrate the culture of Indigenous people.

Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) acknowledges the history, heritage, traditions and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples within our health region.

Prairie Mountain Health provides health services on the original lands of Treaty 1, 2 & 4, territories of the Dakota, Ojibway and Cree people and the Red River Métis. We acknowledge the traditional territories and treaties that confirm recognition and respect for the Indigenous populations – past and present.

PMH encourages all who deliver health services on the original lands of First Nations people and on the homeland of Métis citizens to recognize the ongoing obligation to provide culturally safe health care. As an organization, we will continue to embrace the distinct cultural knowledge, practices and traditions of Indigenous Peoples and continue efforts to strengthen relationships with the Indigenous communities and peoples who we serve.

Watch social media for announcements and information on this year’s coming events in Brandon.

For NIPD events near your area, contact your local First Nation or Métis community.

If you are holding events in the PMH region, please share information by emailing the details to [email protected]

For more information on NIPD, check out the Government of Canada’s link About National Indigenous Peoples Day (rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca)

Brandon

Dauphin

Swan River

Pride Month 2024

PMH is proud to celebrate #Pride & the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community.

Celebrations in Our Region

Brandon Pride is celebrating during the week of June 9-15. Visit their Facebook page at Bra ndon Pride.
Dauphin’s Pride Parade will take place on Saturday, June 1, followed by a ‘Party in the Park’. Visit the Northwest Metis Council Facebook page for more info.
Squirrel Hills Trail Park, Minnedosa – Saturday, June 22. Visit their Facebook page at Valley Life Recreation for more information.
Pride Winnipegosis is celebrating on Saturday June 8. Visit their Facebook page at Pride Winnipegosis.
Pride Winnipeg is hosting events and activities from May 24 – June 2. Visit pridewinnipeg.com for more info.

If you are hosting an event in your community, please share those details by emailing [email protected], and we would be happy to share that information on our website and on our social media channels.

Support Services

Visit our Transgender Health webpage for information on services available to you within Prairie Mountain Health.

Read stories from members of 2SLGBTQQIA+ and allies within Manitoba’s health care community.

May 7^th is International Harm Reduction Day!

Harm Reduction can be defined as “policies, programs and practices that seek to reduce the adverse health, social and economic consequences of the use of legal and illegal psychoactive substances. Harm reduction is pragmatic and focuses on keeping people safe and minimizing death, disease and injury associated with higher risk behavior while recognizing that the behavior may continue despite the risks.” Government of Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living“

Some everyday examples of harm reduction are needle exchange programs, wearing sunscreen, access to barrier-free, safer substance use supplies (smoking and injection supplies), safer sex supplies, wearing a seat belt, wearing a helmet while riding a bike and carrying naloxone.

This year, for National Harm Reduction Day 2024, we are highlighting our Brandon PMH peer, Kris Lelond. Kris has been a peer volunteer with PMH for several months and the Manitoba Harm Reduction Network (MHRN), Brandon chapter for 3.5 years. In both roles, Kris advocates and educates for and about harm reduction programming and services in Brandon. He participates in the 24-hour harm reduction lock box program at 7^th Street Health Access Centre. He also partners with 7^th Street outreach workers to offer harm reduction outreach services and assist with peer-informed programming. In addition to his work at 7^th Street, he supports our Regional Harm Reduction Coordinator by co-facilitating harm reduction workshops and assisting with community outreach events. Kris’s expertise has influenced our programs for the betterment of our community and the populations we serve by pushing and advocating for systemic change.

Our chat with Kris

Can you please tell me about yourself?

I am a well-rounded and educated person. I have had the fortunate opportunity to experience a very diverse life, going from having lots of money to being absolutely broke and on the streets. I have had diverse jobs and have worked in everything from construction to culinary, oil rigs, ski hill, carpentry, farm hand, harm reduction within the health field, to opening businesses in the city. My father passed away from suicide when I was four years old. I had to learn how to be a dad without a dad and not have that consistent role model in my life. But I think how much my dad loved me in the time I spent with him has helped shape my morals and values regarding how to be a dad and husband. My ultimate goal in life is to clear up my debt and build my credit so that I can eventually own my own home again. Also, to get set up in the career that I love and, get married one last time to the right person and have a few more kids.

What does harm reduction mean to you?

Harm reduction means anything you do that ultimately improves your opportunity to have a safe and healthy life regardless of drug use or not.

Why did you get into this line of work?

Because I have lived this life for over half of my life, and I have always wanted the opportunity to give back. What I learned through my living situation is that I can make society better and make a difference.

What are some of the successes you have seen in the work you do for PMH or MHRN?

In my past careers, I have worked in some of the best kitchens and restaurants; in fact, a few of them hold record awards for perfection in the products being put out. Any project that I have been part of, I think has been somewhat successful. I have seen people start to practice my teachings of safer utilization of substance use equipment. I have heard feedback that the trial projects I have been a part of have also been successful, such as the lockbox project at 7^th Street. The harm reduction projects I have helped with have become a staple and a resource in our community.

What are some of the challenges you face when doing this work?

The limitations of the work we are able to do: we could be doing more to be more progressive. There should be full-time harm reduction jobs for us to do this kind of work to sustain ourselves and contribute to our economy.

If there is one message you would like to get out to the people reading this article, what would it be?

It only takes one person and person alone to incorporate change that can impact the world. Change definitely impacts the people around us. It can extend to other places and possibly throughout the world.

In recognition of National Harm Reduction Day, the following events will be taking place:

Brandon, May 7th, 1 pm – 2 pm, Princess Park with food and supply distribution
Dauphin, May 7th from 1-3, Parkview Lodge – testing/wellness event including Soup and Bannock
Swan River, May 15^th, WSFN Community Hall – Syphilis & Congenital Syphilis Education, STBBI Testing, Naloxone Training.

Visit our harm reduction webpage for more information on services available within our region.

Palliative Care Is For You!

The first full week of May marks National Hospice Palliative Care Week in Canada (May 5-11, 2024). The Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CHPCA) is the national leader in pursuing quality hospice palliative care in Canada through supporting public policy initiatives, education, knowledge translation awareness and collaboration. The Prairie Mountain Health Palliative Care Team is joining the annual awareness campaign to celebrate this year’s theme, “Palliative Care Is For You!”

We all deserve to know how palliative care can help when a life-limiting illness touches our lives. Like a lighthouse in a storm, the Prairie Mountain Health Palliative Care Program guides clients and their families through the uncertainties of a life-limiting illness with warmth, support and stability. The Palliative Care Program coordinates the resources needed to support physical care, emotional needs, pain and symptom management, spiritual care, cultural needs, end-of-life planning and bereavement. A palliative care approach illuminates the path forward to help clients live their lives fully through every stage of a life-limiting illness, including death.

Every client and family deserves the best quality of care and support we can offer. The Palliative Care team works closely with many members of the interdisciplinary team, including the client, their family, healthcare facility staff, home care, pharmacists, physicians, other allied health professionals, community organizations and specially trained palliative care volunteers. By working together, Palliative Care helps to approach the end of life with dignity, comfort, care and support. To learn more about the program, visit https://prairiemountainhealth.ca/programs-and-services/palliative-care/

At some point, in some way, end of life touches us all. Palliative Care helps make the transition through the stages of a life-limiting illness both manageable and meaningful for the person facing death and their family members and friends. Join us this National Hospice Palliative Care Week to raise awareness and foster communities that value the incredible support palliative care can offer.

Picture of Palliative Care Nurse Melissa Peters

Melissa Peters, Palliative Care Coordinator
204-578-2340
[email protected]

Brandon Coverage

Picture of Palliative Care Nurse Charla Murray

Charla Murray, Clinical Resource Nurse
204-764-4237
[email protected]

West Coverage
Birtle, Boissevain, Deloraine, Elkhorn, Hamiota, Hartney, Melita, Reston, Rossburn, Russell, Shoal Lake, Souris, Virden

Picture of Palliative Care Nurse Amanda Matheson

Amanda Matheson, Clinical Resource Nurse
204-578-2338
[email protected]

East Coverage
Baldur, Carberry, Cartwright, Erickson, Glenboro Killarney, Minnedosa, Neepawa, Rivers, Sandy Lake, Treherne, Wawanesa

Picture of Palliative Care Nurse Jenna Zurba

Jenna Zurba, Clinical Resource Nurse
204-629-3006
[email protected]

North Coverage
Alonsa, Benito, Camperville, Crane River, Dauphin, Duck Bay, Gilbert Plains, Grandview, Mafeking, McCreary, Roblin, Ste. Rose Du Lac, Swan River, Winnipegosis, Waterhen

Picture of volunteer and bereavement coordinator Carla Mitchell

Carla Mitchell
204-578-2310
[email protected]

Volunteer & Bereavement Coordinator
All areas

Mental Health Week May 6-12, 2024

Canadian Mental Health Association recognizes May 6 to 12th, 2024, as Mental Health Week. We all can be compassionate and know that doing so can make an enormous difference. This year’s Mental Health Week is centred on the healing power of compassion. In a world plagued by suffering, we emphasize that kindness is equally intrinsic to our humanity. Compassion goes beyond acknowledging pain; it’s about embracing our shared humanity and actively caring for ourselves and those around us. Unlike empathy, compassion is more than understanding – it’s rooted in action, a resounding call to practice kindness.

The Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Committee will be promoting amazing Mental Health Week activities planned by partner organizations in several ways:

A regional campaign to schools was created and shared broadly with the invitation to participate in Mindful Moments. These brief messages and information with option exercises or quotes can be shared in a classroom setting, general assembly, or morning announcements. Though they only take a few minutes, they can foster a greater understanding of personal mental health and compassion.
Creative Reflections, a Mental Wellness Suicide Prevention project, was created to work on reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and illness by creating an invitation for individuals to share their stories. We put forward an expression of interest form in 2023 and are now beginning to work with interested artisans to gather their pieces. This project was open to all: artwork, sculptures, photography, poetry, music, and short stories, all eligible to be part of the Creative Expressions Exhibit in the Fall. Stay tuned for more details to come!
- As part of this project, we offer two in-person creation workshops during Mental Health Week. One will take place in Dauphin on May 6 and the other in Ste. Rose on May 8. Individuals will be introduced to the idea of expressing themselves via art and invited to engage in creating their self-portraits in a creative way. Engaging in art activities has been shown to reduce stress, lower anxiety levels, and improve mood.
The Dauphin HERO club will be celebrating their 30^th Anniversary this year! A celebration event is planned during Mental Health Week on Wednesday, May 8, from
11 am to 2 pm. Born out of a desire for a healthy community for people recovering from mental health struggles, the HERO club – which stands for Helping Everyone Reach Out – has demonstrated how empathy and compassion can create a healthy and safe space where people can flourish.
Keep an eye out for posters from The Canadian Mental Health Association. Titled “A Call to be Kind,” these posters present the challenge to connect with others through compassion and will direct you to CMHA Manitoba’s website for further resources and information. CMHA will also hold a free online presentation on “Radical Acceptance and Self-Compassion” at noon on Friday, May 10. E-mail [email protected] to receive the Zoom link for this presentation.

Whether it’s lending a listening ear, offering a helping hand, or simply being there for someone in need, every act of kindness matters. In a world where kindness sometimes takes a backseat to busyness, it’s important to remember the impact that even small acts of kindness can have. By spreading kindness, we make a positive difference in the lives of others and also nourish our souls.

As we celebrate Mental Health Week, honour the HERO club’s legacy, and anticipate the Creative Reflections exhibit, let’s recommit ourselves to spreading kindness wherever we go. Together, let’s create a world where compassion and creativity flourish and everyone feels valued and supported on their journey toward healing and wholeness.

Are you ready to quit tobacco?

May 31 is World No Tobacco Day, a day set aside to remind the public on the dangers of using tobacco, the business practices of tobacco companies, what is being done to fight the tobacco epidemic, and what people around the world can do to claim their right to health and healthy living and to protect future generations. See https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-no-tobacco-day

Did you know a Healthcare Provider from Prairie Mountain Health can help support your tobacco quit journey and provide redeemable funds toward Nicotine Replacement Therapy products? The Tobacco Quit Card and Counselling Program provides counselling sessions and redeemable Quit Cards in the amount of $300 for nicotine patches and aids to eligible patients across Prairie Mountain Health. Even if you are not eligible for the Quit Card, you can still receive individual counselling sessions.

What is offered in the Tobacco Quit Card and Counselling Program?

Counselling sessions with a health professional on how to stop tobacco use or vaping. 3 sessions are guaranteed (initial, 1 month & 6 months) and more can be provided if needed.
A Quit Card redeemable at any Manitoba pharmacy to help toward the cost nicotine replacement medication.

Who can participate?

Manitobans without insurance to cover nicotine replacement products (nicotine patches, gum and other aids) or who find it difficult to afford these medications.
Manitobans ready to quit or reduce smoking or vaping within 30 days.

Call 1-877-509-7852 to book you appointment today

Other tobacco cessation programs available to Prairie Mountain Health residents:

Quit Smoking with your Manitoba Pharmacist Program: Participating Manitoba pharmacies provide $100 and up to nine counselling sessions for Manitobans wanting to quit. Medications covered include nicotine patches, aids and oral medications. Ask your pharmacy if the program is available through them!

Commit to Quit Program (C2Q) is a five-session program offered live online to all Manitobans. This series is for anyone who would like to reduce or stop their tobacco or nicotine use. Learn about your triggers, setting realistic goals, how to start reducing, behavioural strategies that work and find out about quit medications. See wrha.mb.ca/groups or call 1-877-979-9355.

Packing It In is a one-class overview of the steps to quit smoking. It’s a helpful introduction if you are interested in the longer Commit to Quit Program. A recorded version is available at wrha.mb.ca/groups.

The Last Drag is a Winnipeg 2SLGBTQ+ Facebook peer support group to help you quit smoking.

Talk Tobacco is an Indigenous Quit Smoking and Vaping resource providing free, confidential help line and online support. Now also offering text support. Visit their Facebook page or call 1-833-998-TALK (8255).

Smokers’ Helpline is a free, confidential help line and online support. Now also offering text support to get you smoke-free for good. For more information visit their call 1-877-513-5333.

Nurse Practitioner (NP): some NPs in PMH can provide quit smoking counselling and NRT products (patches/gum). Contact your local clinic to see if this service is available in your area.