Manitoba Substance Use and Addictions Awareness Week | Nov 24-30, 2024

Every year, Manitoba Substance Use and Addictions Awareness Week provides an opportunity for Manitobans from all walks of life to engage in meaningful discussions and explore solutions for addressing the harms caused by substance use and addictions.

Manitoba Substance Use and Addictions Awareness Week runs from Nov. 24-30, and the theme for 2024 is Forging Connections.

The theme acknowledges the power of working together and bringing different experiences, ideas, and opinions to address the challenges of substance use health.

It also challenges us to look for opportunities to collaborate with partners, communities and individuals to develop connections, identify common ground and work together to find effective solutions and actions we can all support.

Within Prairie Mountain Health (PMH), several addiction services are offered. They include Community-based Counselling, Family Programs, School Based Services, Youth Services, Education and Training, Non-Residential Treatment Programs, RE/ACT Program, In House Treatment Programs, MOST Clinic, RAAM Clinics, Impaired Driver’s Program, and Auricular Acupuncture. Addictions Services has 9 Community Office locations within Prairie Mountain Health and 2 In-House Treatment Centres.

How to Access Our Services:

Individuals wanting to attend community-based or in-house treatment programs must first meet with a Community Addictions Worker to complete the intake and assessment process. Information is gathered to determine the level of involvement with substance use and gambling, and information is provided for services available and recommended.

Currently, in the Brandon-Parkwood Community Office, intake services are available by phone appointments during the following times: Monday and Wednesday, 9 am to 4 pm and Friday, 9 am to noon. In-person drop-in intake appointments occur at 9:30 am on Fridays. In all other locations (including Dauphin, Swan River, Virden, Rossburn, and Minnedosa), intake services are assigned to the next available counsellor and are scheduled appointments.

Should the client decide they are interested in accessing one of the in-house treatment programs, the community addictions worker will make the referral to the program.

Community Offices

Brandon – CEYS
940 Princess Avenue, Brandon, MB, R7A 0P6
204-729-3863

Brandon 7th Street Health Access Centre
20 – 7th Street, Brandon, MB
204-578-4800

Brandon Parkwood
510 Frederick Street, Brandon, MB
204-729-3838

Dauphin
404-1st Ave NE, Dauphin, MB, R7N 1A9
204-622-2021 **Travels to Roblin bi-weekly

Hamiota
177 Birch Ave E, Hamiota, MB R0M 0T0
204-859-4000 **Travels to Birtle, Rossburn, Russell, and Waywayseecappo on a weekly or bi-weekly basis

Minnedosa
Court House, 70-3rd Avenue, Minnedosa, MB, R0J 1E0
204-867-6102 | 204-867-5140
***Travels to Erickson, Neepawa and Carberry to provide services weekly or as needed.

Ste. Rose du Lac Health Centre
Willard Monson House, 540 Central Ave E, Ste. Rose du Lac, MB R0L 1S0
204-447-4040

Swan River
126-6th Ave N, Box 141, Swan River, MB R0L 1Z0
204-734-2030 | 204-734-9509

Virden
283 Nelson Street W, Box 2500, Virden, MB, R0M 2C0
204-748-4720 | 204-748-4721

In-House Treatment

Willard Monson House
28 day Co-ed Program
540 Central Ave | Box 490
Ste. Rose du Lac MB R0L 1S0
Phone: 204-447-4040
Fax: 204-447-4050

Parkwood
21 day Co-ed program & 6 week extended program (Recovery Beyond 21)
510 Frederick Street
Brandon MB R7A 6Z4
Phone: 204-729-3838
Fax: 204-729-3844

Camp Bridges 2024: Cold Toes and Warm Hearts

November 21^st, 2024, is Children’s Grief Awareness Day, a day dedicated to helping people learn about the ways they can support a grieving child. In Canada, over 757,000 children will experience the death of someone in their extended family, with 1 in 14 experiencing the death of a parent or sibling. In recognition of Children’s Grief Awareness Day, the Prairie Mountain Health Palliative Care team would like to share information about our children’s grief program, Camp Bridges.

Camp Bridges 2024 began with a surprise late May snowstorm, but that didn’t stop 32 children and youth from attending grief camp. Despite the chilly weather, Campers enjoyed the whole camp experience, including a campfire with smores, staying up late into the night, giggling, and doing fun activities like ziplining and horseback riding. While their toes were cold, their hearts were warmed with the knowledge that they were not alone in their experience of the death of someone that they love.

Camp Bridges is a children’s bereavement camp organized by the Palliative Care Program at Prairie Mountain Health. It is open to any child in Manitoba, aged 7-15 years old, who is grieving the death of someone significant in their life. Camp Bridges provides a safe environment where campers can interact and share their feelings with other children in similar circumstances. While the camp is not designed to provide grief therapy, Campers learn to understand their grief as a normal experience, recognize they are not alone and have the chance to “just be a kid again.”

In 2024, Camp Bridges was hosted at Circle Square Ranch, a beautiful Western-inspired campground with friendly animals and many fun activities. Upon arrival, Campers were welcomed by smiling volunteers. They had the opportunity to choose from an assortment of donated comfort items, including a hand-made blanket/stuffy from Project Linus, a knitted hug scarf from Palliative Manitoba and a bag of camping goodies from Shine Through The Rain Foundation. Campers said goodbye to parents and caregivers, who were sent home with a resource package to help them understand and support their child’s grief.

After checking in, Campers head to their cabins to unpack and get to know their cabin mates. It is astonishing how quickly the children form bonds with each other by sharing their names and why they came to this special camp. Campers are invited to create a picture frame and display a photo of their person on the Table of Memories. This activity allows children to talk about the person who died, share favourite memories and form connections with other grieving children. As they look upon the table, filled with photos of parents, siblings, grandparents, friends and other important people, they know they are not alone in the experience of losing someone special.

Table of pictures of loved ones that have passed away.

Camp Bridges offers everything expected from a summer camp, including ziplining, archery, mess hall meals, horseback riding, outdoor games and lots of laughter and fun. Thankfully, the weather warmed up, and the Campers could enjoy all the different activities offered. Sprinkled in alongside are memorial activities that teach children about grief, allow them to acknowledge their loss and find support in one another and camp volunteers.

Memorial activities include creating a memory box, writing on HOPE stones and sewing a pillow made from their loved one’s clothing. As an annual Camp Bridges tradition, a memorial service is held where children can light a candle for their special person in a space of shared reflection, empathy and support. These activities help children maintain a continued connection with the person who died and let them know that death ‘ends life, but not love.’

Campers had the opportunity to participate in sessions to help them with grief, which included dog therapy, movement and breathwork exercises, and take-home coping skills stations. These activities help children connect to their emotions and express them through creative outlets, physical movement and improved grief literacy skills. Children learn that grief is a natural and normal response to loss and that expressing their feelings can help.

Finally, it was time to close out Camp Bridges with a butterfly release ceremony. The sun shone brightly as the Campers and their families gathered in a large circle to release Monarch butterflies. In that moment of watching the butterflies take flight, one could grasp the profound impact Camp Bridges had on these young grievers and their families.

Circle of Children releasing butterflies.

Camp Bridges is facilitated by a dedicated group of volunteers who give their time, energy and heart to create a warm, fun-filled atmosphere. Fourteen cabin leaders ensure Campers attend scheduled activities and provide care and guidance throughout the weekend. A second crew of ten volunteers help children sew memory pillows, a treasured keepsake that will comfort them for years to come. Volunteers are trained in recognizing and supporting the unique ways that children grieve. Finally, Camp Coordinators made up of staff from PMH Palliative Care, provide camp oversight and nursing duties for the weekend. If you are interested in volunteering with Camp Bridges 2024, please contact Carla Mitchell at 204-578-2310 or [email protected].

Camp Bridges is thankful to all the special people who make this camp possible! Due to the generous donations received, we can offer Camp Bridges free of charge for 40 campers each year. In 2024, the number of applications received exceeded the available spots, highlighting the continued need for children’s bereavement support services. We are grateful to the individuals, organizations, community service groups and palliative care volunteer committees who contributed financially. If you want to donate to Camp Bridges, please contact Melissa Peters at 204-578-2340 or [email protected]. Income tax receipts are issued for donations.

Camp Bridges Leaders adn Campers group photo.

To learn more about Camp Bridges or to find additional resources to support grieving children, visit our website. Please note: Camp Bridges 2025 applications will be available in January 2025.

National Grief and Bereavement Day: Remember, Reflect and Connect

The third Tuesday in November marks National Grief and Bereavement Day in Canada. Throughout November, culminating on November 19th, the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association promotes the resources available to help Canadians on their grief journeys. National Grief and Bereavement Day is an opportunity for Canadians to remember, reflect and connect around something we all experience – grief.

Remember

Grief is the natural and normal response to the loss of something or someone important to you. Although grief is a common experience we all share, we rarely acknowledge it in society. A recent survey found that 53% of Canadians said their grief was largely unrecognized, and 50% felt inadequately supported in their grief. It can be difficult to know what to say to someone who is grieving; some helpful ways to start a conversation might be “I’m sorry this happened to you” or “I won’t pretend to know what you’re going through or how you feel, but I’m here for you.”

Reflect

Grieving is the necessary process of acknowledging the loss, coping with the many changes it creates and adapting to life as it moves forward. It is important to understand that grief differs for everyone, and it is not something a person can “get over” or “fix.” Take time to reflect on how you can support someone else in grief. 83% of survey respondents identified being asked about their loss as helpful. Some ways to start a conversation might include “Just letting you know I am thinking of you,” or “Whatever you’re feeling is alright,” or “If you would like to talk about (the loss), I’m here to listen.”

Connect

Finding connection through loss can be a powerful tool for those who are grieving. Survey respondents identified that the most important sources of support are family and friends, grief counsellors, community grief programs or peer support groups. Some helpful ways of offering support include: “Would you like some company?”; “We could go for a walk together”; “Would it be okay if I brought you dinner or mowed your lawn?”; “I am going to phone you again in a few days” or “We don’t have to talk, we can just be together.”

The Prairie Mountain Health Regional Palliative Care Program is marking National Grief and Bereavement Day by educating the public about the importance of supporting one another and sharing the grief support available in our health region. Below is a listing of telephone lines, peer support groups and online resources:

Telephone Support Lines

Province-Wide Bereavement Phone Line (Palliative Manitoba): 1-800-539-0295
Hope for Wellness Line (Indigenous peoples): 1-855-242-3310
Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868
Prairie Mountain Health Crisis Services: 1-866-332-3030 (North) and 1-888-379-7699 (South)
Winnipeg Humane Society Pet Loss Support Line: 1-204-988-8804

Grief Support Groups and Seminars

Brandon and Area Suicide Bereavement Support Group (SPIN): 1-204-761-4083
Brockie Donovan Funeral Services Grief Seminars (Brandon): 1-204-727-0697
Compassionate Friends of SW Manitoba (Brandon and areas): 1-855-727-1823
Dauphin Way United Methodist Church Grief Groups (Dauphin): 1-251-378-7524
GriefShare Support Group (Dauphin): 1-204-648-7053
GriefShare Support Group (Russell): 1-204-773-6963
Healing Hearts Substance Use Bereavement Support Group (Brandon): 1-204-573-0188
Memories Chapel Journey Through Grief Support Group (Brandon): 1-204-727-0330
Palliative Manitoba Kids and Teens Grieve Too! Support Group (virtual): 1-800-539-0295
Paull Funeral Home Grief Recovery Program (Swan River): 1-204-293-9661
Peer Connections Manitoba (Dauphin) 1-431-345-0353
Prairie Mountain Health Camp Bridges (Children 7-15): 1-204-578-2340
Westman Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba Grief Groups (Brandon) 1-204-721-2174

Helpful Websites

Canadian Grief Alliance: Grief Chats Webinars and Recordings: https://www.canadiangriefalliance.ca/
Canadian Virtual Hospice: My Grief https://mygrief.ca/
Canadian Virtual Hospice: Kids Grief https://www.kidsgrief.ca/
Prairie Mountain Health: https://prairiemountainhealth.ca/programs-and-services/palliative-care/

If you would like more information about grief support, please reach out to the Palliative Care Volunteer and Bereavement Coordinator, Carla Mitchell, at 204-578-2310 or [email protected].

Submitted by:

Carla Mitchell, MSW/RSW

Regional Palliative Care Program

References:

National Public Consultation on Grief Executive Summary https://www.canadiangriefalliance.ca/media/r25humkl/2024-05-16-cga-grief-survey-executive-summary_fin.pdf

Ideas to Support Someone Who is Grieving https://www.canadiangriefalliance.ca/media/tjcoyzig/supporting-someone-en.pdf

Grief Is…. https://www.canadiangriefalliance.ca/media/q4te13py/finding-the-words-grief-infographic_p2.pdf

CHPCA National Grief and Bereavement Day Toolkit https://www.chpca.ca/awareness/national-grief-and-bereavement-day/

World Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week | Nov 18-24

World AMR Awareness Week is a global campaign to raise awareness and understanding of antimicrobial resistance and is celebrated from November 18-24 every year.

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the top global health threats, yet most don’t recognize its impact.

Antimicrobial resistance happens when microorganisms change in ways that make medications used to cure the infections they cause ineffective. When a microorganism becomes resistant to most antimicrobials, they are often referred to as “superbugs.”

Antimicrobial resistance is not new. Alexander Fleming won a Nobel Prize for his discovery of penicillin; he worried that AMR would make penicillin ineffective. Since then, bacterial resistance has been discovered in every antibiotic ever marketed.

Thanks to antibiotics, people no longer die due to uncomplicated infections. Surgery is possible, life expectancy has increased, and infant mortality rates have decreased. But if we don’t slow the rate of AMR, we may be pushed back into an era where uncomplicated infections become significant health threats.

sorry, but no amount of antibiotics will get rid of your cold.

When we use antibiotics to treat infection, they kill susceptible bacteria, leaving behind resistant bacteria that can multiply to take their place. We know that one of the biggest risk factors for the development of AMR is the use and misuse of antibiotics for people and animals.

A study of antibiotic use in Manitoba, “Antibiotics: too Much of a Good Thing?” showed that many people were prescribed antibiotics for infections that cannot be effectively treated with antibiotics or were prescribed inappropriate antibiotics. These practices can lead to AMR.

What can we do to reduce the risk of AMR?

Antibiotics are ineffective for viral infections, such as colds, uncomplicated otitis media (ear infections) or most cases of sinusitis. We can decrease antibiotic use by ensuring that antibiotics are not prescribed when unnecessary. We can also reduce the risk of AMR by using narrow-spectrum antibiotics for the shortest length of time needed to treat the infection.

Choosing Wisely Canada has some excellent resources on their Using Antibiotics Wisely and Using Antibiotics Wisely in Primary Care pages. The Manitoba AMR Alliance also has valuable resources.

Read Mary’s story, How antibiotic resistance impacts lives – Canada.ca, to see how AMR can profoundly affect our ability to effectively treat infection.

Just for fun: take the quiz – Which Antibiotic Are You?

Breastfeeding Week | October 1-7, 2024

In Canada, we celebrate World Breastfeeding Week from October 1 to 8. World Breastfeeding Week is a time to celebrate the role breastfeeding plays in providing children with the healthiest start in life.

Breast milk has just the right amount of fat, vitamins, protein, carbohydrates and minerals for optimal infant growth. Breast milk also contains antibodies and other immune factors to help protect against infections and disease. Breastfeeding benefits mothers’ short- and long-term health and will strengthen the special relationship between mother and baby.

This year’s theme is “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All.” This year’s theme will focus on increasing awareness of the inequalities in breastfeeding support and relevance. Breastfeeding saves lives and is the key intervention to promote both mother and baby’s health, survival and wellbeing. Breastfeeding promotes both short and long-term health, good nutrition and food security in normal and emergency situations.

Between 2015 and 2021, the global rate of exclusive breastfeeding of infants in the first six months has steadily increased from 38% to 48% and is on track to reach the 50% target of 2025.

Although progress is happening, it is unequal and insufficient. Differences in breastfeeding rates occur not only between regions and countries but also within countries. Structural, organizational, interpersonal and community determinates of infant feeding choices drive the inequity of breastfeeding. Failing to rectify these inequities will result in a widening gap, even if the overall breastfeeding trend is positive. Therefore, investment in breastfeeding to address these inequities is vital and can help alleviate the social inequalities. It is time to inform and engage in actions to help ensure breastfeeding support for all to close the gap of breastfeeding inequalities.

Brandon Manitoba has many resources to help families during their breastfeeding journey. These include the following:

La Leche League Canada is an international organization dedicated to helping mothers reach their breastfeeding goals.
Local Public Health Nurse. Find your local area nurse at Public Health – Prairie Mountain Health
Western Medical Clinic Family Physicians can assist with breastfeeding concerns.
The Wellness Clinic Family Physician can assist with breastfeeding concerns.
Next Trimester Co. for prenatal classes.
Lactation Consultant at Brandon Regional Health Centre – 204-578-4268.

Malnutrition Week October 7-11, 2024

October 7-11, 2024 is Canadian Malnutrition Awareness Week. This year’s theme is:

ACT – Advocate – Collaborate – Transform. This theme focuses on strategies to advocate for better nutrition care across healthcare settings.

Clinical Dietitians Emma Barr and Melanie Hart with the new metabolic cart.

One example of how we can ACT and improve nutrition care is the recent purchase of a metabolic cart for patients at the Brandon Regional Health Center. The dietitians advocated purchasing this new equipment and collaborated with physicians and management to write a proposal. It was approved and purchased by the BRHC Foundation, transforming nutrition care for acute care patients. It gives the Dietitian an accurate measure of a patient’s nutrition needs. This allows the Dietitians to prescribe the best nutrition plan and plays a role in getting patients better and home sooner.

Another group that can benefit from ACT is older adults living in the community where 1 in 3 are at nutrition risk. Family and friends can Advocate if they notice weight or muscle loss, loss of appetite, frailty, or mental health issues. If these signs are present, Collaborate with health care providers such as Doctors, Nurses, and Dietitians. With help addressing these issues, their life can be transformed by improved independence, immunity and decreasing the need to go to the hospital.

ACT is important with children, too. Up to 1 in 3 children admitted to hospital are malnourished. If you have a child in hospital, advocate by asking if weight, height or length (and head circumference in children under two years old) have been checked. When you go home, collaborate with the healthcare team and ask for a nutrition plan. Ask to meet with a Dietitian if you need help or have questions. This can Transform your child’s experience by improving growth and recovery and possibly resulting in a shorter stay in hospital.

Nutrition is important at all stages of life; if you have a concern, remember to ACT!

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.

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]

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.