Posted on
April 22/09

The 2009 keynote speaker will be Mark Tewksbury, an Olympic Champion with gold, silver and bronze medals from Olympic swim competitions in 1988 and 1992. The dinner will be held on Tuesday, November 24, 2009 6:00pm at the Four Seasons Hotel, Toronto. Event Co-chairs are Elizabeth Vanstone, Investment Advisor, RBC Dominion Securities Inc. and Staunton Bowen, Director, Forrester Research Inc.

Tickets are $195 per person. Corporate sponsorships are available.

To learn more visit http://cprf.ca/events/events.html

Posted on
April 3/09

Date: Wednesday May 20, 2009
Location: Le Treport Convention
1075 Queensway East,
Mississauga, Ontario L4Y 4C1

Registration Fee: $150.00
Students: $50.00 (must be full time student)
Limited subsidized registration for families
(conditions apply please call)

Registration for each workshop opens at 8:00 am
Sessions run from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Session Description:

Individuals living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) face a wide range of needs often requiring very intensive supports and treatments. In mild cases, ASD may be difficult to detect resulting in young people not receiving the diagnosis and supports they need to succeed in the school system and to build active and healthy social lives. Through the advocacy of parents and family members, ASD is benefiting from increased attention and support as well as a number of innovative treatment approaches.

This workshop will examine the causes, signs and symptoms and best practice treatments for ASD with an emphasis on Asperger Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD). Key factors that impact the incidence of ASD will be examined including genetics and nutition. Behaviour characteristics and learning styles for both profound and mild cases will be reviewed as well as teaching strategies and other approaches such as behavioural intervention, communication and social skills development.

Posted on
April 2/09

Open Mind Seres Toronto Region workshop is:

Adolescent Addictions:
Understanding, Treatment and Recovery
(Substance, Gambling, Internet and Video Games)

Tuesday May 12 , 2009
Registration opens at 8:00am
Sessions run from 9:00am - 4:00 pm
Location: Metro Central YMCA,
20 Grosvenor Street, Toronto, Ontario M4Y 2V5
Registration Fee: $150.00
Students: $50.00
Limited Complimentary Seating for Parents and Youth

This full day workshop will examine current research on adolescent addictions describing the nature of these addictions and the impact these addictions have on the lives of both the young person and their families. Areas of addiction that will be covered include substance use, internet gambling and video game addiction. The signs and symptoms of a developing addiction and best practice intervention techniques and supports will be reviewed. Current addiction based resources and services available in Toronto will be profiled to help improve access in intervention.

Posted on
April 1/09

Adolescent Addictions:
Understanding, Treatment and Recovery
(Substance, Gambling, Internet and Video Games)


Thursday, April 16, 2009
Registration opens at 8:00am
Sessions run from 9:00am - 4:00 pm
Location: Cardinal Golf Club
2740 Highway 9
Registration Fee: $125.00
Students: $50.00
Limited Complimentary Seating for Parents and Youth


Session Description:
This full day workshop will examine current research on adolescent addictions describing the nature of these addictions and the impact these addictions have on the lives of both the young person and their families. Areas of addiction that will be covered include substance use, internet gambling and video game addiction. The signs and symptoms of a developing addiction and best practice intervention techniques and supports will be reviewed. Current addiction based resources and services available in York Region will be profiled to help improve access in intervention.

Posted on
November 26/08

Toronto, Ontario – November 25, 2008 - The Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation (CPRF) announced today that it is joining forces with Mental Health Partnerships of Canada. This strategic alliance will create a new national mental health charity. Mental Health Partnerships of Canada (MHPC) will expand fundraising activities and develop leading research and demonstration projects in the field of mental health, mental illness and brain injury.

The joint announcement was made by the Honourable Michael Kirby, Chair of Mental Health Partnerships of Canada, and Kevin McNeil, Chair of the Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation, at the Foundation’s annual Silver Dinner event in Toronto. Kirby is also Chair of the Mental Health Commission of Canada.

“This alliance and major new thrust in fundraising will have a transformational impact on the mental health sector in our country,” said McNeil.

Kirby stated that, “Through the efforts of the Mental Health Commission of Canada, it is hoped that a national army of volunteers will be created that will help to raise funds for the new Mental Health Partnerships of Canada charity.”

The Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation has close to a thirty year history of funding mental health research. It will bring significant research, peer review, and publishing capacity to the new alliance. Mental Health Partnerships of Canada has been established as a separate entity to support the goals of the Mental Health Commission of Canada.

Michael Howlett, President of the Mental Health Commission of Canada is also President of Mental Health Partnerships of Canada. Kevin McNeil, David Feather, and Stephen Griggs of the CPRF have agreed to join the Board of the MHPC. Glenn Thompson and Graham Scott are current members of the Board of Mental Health Partnerships of Canada.

“Our alliance will create a charity for mental health on a scale with charities such as breast cancer, and heart and stroke,” Kirby said. “A national charity and a national army of volunteers are critical if we want to keep mental illness out of the shadows forever.”

For further information please contact:

Micheal Pietrus, Director of Communications MHCC, (403) 385-4040 www.mentalhealthcommission.ca

Andrea Swinton, Director of Fund Development and Marketing, CPRF (416) 351-7757 ext. 22 www.cprf.ca

Posted on
October 1/08

OTTAWA, Oct. 1 /CNW Telbec/ - The Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH) today announced the launch of Mental Illness Awareness Week 2006, a national grassroots campaign running October 1-7 featuring activities organized by more than 100 groups in many communities across Canada. Visit http://www.newswire.ca/fr/releases/archive/October2006/01/c3800.html to learn more

Posted on
September 25/08

If Michael Kirby had his way, schoolchildren would be visited every year by the mentally ill -- and medical doctors would be sitting there right along with them.
Visit http://news.therecord.com/News/Local/article/419676 to read the rest of this article

Posted on
September 17/08

The fall 2008 newsletter from the Mental Health Commission of Canada is now available. Visit http://www.mentalhealthcommission.ca/index-en.php to read it.

Posted on
September 15/08

The Sept 2008 issue of the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists newsletter features an article on the development of the When Something's Wrong: Strategies for the Workplace. The article is titled Workplace mental health: "Developing an employer resource through partnerships in knowledge translation" Visit this link to read the article http://www.caot.ca/otnow/sept%2008/workplace.pdf

Posted on
September 8/08

September 8, 2008 Alexandra Lopez-Pacheo

Julius C. Dithers, the irascible business owner in the classic cartoon, would probably confront a sharp decline in employee Dagwood Bumstead's work performance by yelling or just firing him ... again. Ebenezer Scrooge might have withheld Bob Cratchit's wages and forced him to work overtime.

And The Devil Wears Prada's Miranda Priestly would remind her employee that a million others would die for her job and send her on a gruelling personal errand.

They wouldn't have considered that their employee was dealing with a child's health issue or that they were being overworked and bullied in the office or struggling with demoralizing work/life balance issues.

Of course, when it comes to attracting and retaining good workers in today's competitive environment, these fictional bosses would be hopping around with a self-inflicted foot wound and short of staff. Dedicated and engaged employees are one of the most valuable assets a small business can have, so when there's a drop in an employee's performance it behooves the employer to first try to identify the reason.

"You need to have that difficult discussion with the employee," says Sylvia Klarer, director of talent management at Ceridian Canada. "My advice is to approach the employee with the benefit of the doubt in mind."

Rather than take an accusatory stance, she says, begin by explaining that you've noticed a drop in their performance and ask if there's something happening in their lives or at work. Think of it as a fact-finding mission in search of a solution with empathy and support rather than a "shape-up" ultimatum.

Sudden changes or new pressures in the employee's life could explain a sharp drop in an employee's performance.

"In some ways, the external issues are easier to deal with, because if you can help them find the support they need in the community they'll come back and give you the quality work," Ms. Klarer says. "If it's a temporary thing, perhaps they're trying to bridge a change. Maybe they just can't make it in until 10 a. m. for a few weeks. You'd be amazed how supportive co-workers can be and willing to change their hours to help them."

If the change has been a more gradual yet notable decline, it could be a sign of an underlining health problem, says Kitchenerbased occupational therapist Erika Pond Clements, project manager for the Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation (CPRF) Workplace Project. "It's one of those things that can be asked directly: 'Is there a medical condition that could be affecting your performance at work?' " she says.

At least one in five Canadians will suffer from mental health issues in their lifetime. Indeed, mental health has overtaken cardiovascular disease as the fastest-growing category of disability costs in Canada, according to 2003 research by the Global Business and Economic Roundtable on Addiction and Mental Health, an organization made up of business, health and education leaders.

Most people's perception of mental health problems remain clouded by common myths, stigma and misinformation. Because of this, many employers --and even employees suffering from it -- might not consider mental health as a reason for the decline in work performance. That's unfortunate, Ms. Pond Clements says, because many mental health issues are treatable and with the right support and treatment, the worker can return to previous productivity levels.

"In the case of a lot of mental illness people will put it off, thinking they're having a bad week, so they don't really look at some of the signs and symptoms," Ms. Pond Clements says. "People need to know somebody cares. Even if that person doesn't have the answers and can't make the problem go away, human genuineness goes a long way.

"And that's where small businesses can do even better than larger organizations, because they know their people and they have a relationship with them."

If there is some recognition on the part of the employee that a mental health issue is the possible cause behind the decline in performance, an employer can encourage them to seek support through workplace or extended benefits -- or at least check it out with their doctor. Sometimes, the source of the decline in an employee's work performance isn't really a change in the employee but in the job itself or in the work team.

A 2007 survey by Zogby International and the Workplace Bullying Institute found that 37% of U. S. workers have been bullied at work.

Or it could be that there have been changes in the employee's role, without him or her receiving the necessary resources or training. The motivation of even the most committed employee can wane in an environment where there's little recognition. Ask yourself if you recognize and reward your employees' dedication and achievements --and not just through formal recognition programs.

"A well-timed thank-you that is meaningful and heartfelt is often much more appreciated by an employee than the dollars you can throw at people," Ms. Klarer says.

One thing is certain, Ms. Klarer says: If you have an employee who is performing poorly, it must be addressed. "Often, managers don't actually want to approach the employee because it's uncomfortable to tell somebody they're not meeting expectations," she says, "but there's nothing worse than having a poor performer in a group, because that will contaminate the rest of the group."

Conversely, open, honest dialogue with a collaborative effort to identify the problem and find a solution can result in improvement in the worker's performance and create stronger working relationships and employee commitment.

Posted on
September 5/08

Toronto, Ontario July 15, 2008 - A survey of over 450 Canadian organizations conducted by Mercer in conjunction with The Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH) found that mental health issues are a growing concern for employers. Almost 80% reported that mental health issues have increased in importance compared to three to five years ago. Mental illness is estimated to result in 35 million workdays lost every year in Canada and low productivity related to mental illness adds significant cost to employers.

Respondents, about 85% of whom were human resources representatives, reported that only 13% of senior executives have a strong awareness of the impact of mental health on the organization. “The high ranking that mental health has on the HR priorities list combined with the lack of awareness at the top of the organization is cause for concern,” said Anne Nicoll, Mercer Principal. “Executive knowledge and commitment to action are critical in addressing this issue. The majority of respondents who reported strong executive awareness said the most effective means to achieving this is through a senior champion in the organization.”

Forty-seven percent of respondents with no or only some senior executive awareness have no plans or don’t know what they will do to improve the awareness of the executive team. According to Ms. Nicoll, “One of the impediments to senior buy-in is the lack of measurement of the impact of mental health issues needed to make a business case for action. Only 22% of respondents reported that they measure the impact of mental health issues. Of those that do, the top two measures reported were disability claim statistics and EAP usage, which means that employees who do not access these programs are not being captured at all.”

Two-thirds of the survey respondents also appear to be underestimating the prevalence of mental illness in the workplace. A recent study by the Public Health Agency of Canada estimated that 13% of the adult population in Canada have either been diagnosed with a mental illness or are undiagnosed. However, 46% of respondents reported that they have 5% or fewer employees who experience mental illness in a year and another 22% estimated the prevalence to be between 5% and 10%.

A majority of respondents said not enough was being done to improve workload balance and work based social supports. “Preventive measures are important in addressing the workplace factors affecting mental health, said Philip Upshall of CAMIMH. “Senior champions in the workplace are key to driving change, especially in an environment where 54% reported a lack of awareness by front-line managers and supervisors of mental health issues and 57% said that mental health issues are not treated equally to physical health issues by front-line managers.”

Four hundred and fifty-two human resource professionals and business leaders participated in the on-line survey between April 17 and May 9, 2008. Participants represented a wide range of industry sectors and sizes from organizations with less than 100 employees to those with more than 5,000 employees in Canada.

About Mercer

Mercer is a leading global provider of human resource consulting, outsourcing and investment services. Mercer helps organizations leverage the power of their people to achieve peak company performance within a highly disciplined, rigorous financial and investment framework. Mercer provides specialized consulting services to support employers in absence management and improving health and productivity of their workforce. Mercer serves over 25,000 clients globally from more than 180 locations worldwide. http://www.mercer.ca/

About CAMIMH

The Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH) is an alliance of mental health organizations representing consumers, families, national non-governmental organizations, professional associations in the mental health field, and health care providers. CAMIMH's mandate is to ensure that mental illness and mental health are a priority on the national agenda. http://www.camimh.ca/

Mercer is a supporter of Mental Illness Awareness Week, an annual national public education campaign designed to raise awareness among Canadians about the significant social and economic impact mental illnesses have on our society. http://www.miaw-ssmm.ca/

Contacts:

Nancy Altilia Nancy.altilia@mercer.com (416) 868-2364

Martin Sampson (on behalf of CAMIMH) martin.sampson@fleishman.ca (613) 688-6668

Posted on
August 18/08

NEWS RELEASE

CALGARY, AB August 18, 2008 – The federal government today increased its commitment to improving mental health in Canada. The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health, announced this morning the budget for the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) has been increased from $55 million to $130 million dollars and its term has officially been extended from 5 to 10 years.

Minister Clement made the announcement at the annual meeting of the Canadian Medical Association. “Without mental health, there is no health,” said the minister. “One in five Canadians will experience a serious mental illness in the course of their lifetime, and that is why the federal government has decided to concentrate on mental health as a major priority at this time,” he added.

“I applaud Minister Clement and the federal government for their continued support and recognition that more has to be done to improve mental health in this country,” said Michael Howlett, President and CEO of the Commission. “Mental health is an issue whose time has finally come. Now with this additional funding and extended term, we know the Commission will have the resources and the time it needs to make a real difference.”

The MHCC has already started work on a number of major initiatives and projects.

These include: the development of a national mental health strategy; creation of a 10-year national campaign to reduce stigma and discrimination experienced by people living with mental health problems and illnesses; creation of a knowledge exchange centre; and establishment of 5 homelessness research demonstration projects across Canada. The Commission’s volunteer advisory committees have also started work on a variety of projects which support the key initiatives.

“We have accomplished a considerable amount in just one short year,” says Howlett. He points to the leadership team, staff and the volunteer advisory committees the Commission has assembled so quickly, and also to the support the MHCC is receiving from the broader mental health community across the country. “The commitment we’re receiving is phenomenal,” says Howlett.

Other major mental health organizations across the country are also endorsing the federal government’s latest announcement.

“The Canadian Mental Health Association enthusiastically applauds the federal government's announcement of increased support for the Mental Health Commission of Canada. This is a tremendous vote of confidence in the Commission, and a most encouraging sign of the importance of mental health as a national issue. CMHA looks forward to working closely with the Commission in achieving its challenging mandate, which will be much more feasible through this support,” says Dr. Taylor Alexander, Chief Executive Officer for Canadian Mental Health Association’s National Office.

“The importance of the Commission and its value has already been proven to the broad mental health community in Canada,” says Phil Upshall, Executive Director of Mood Disorders Canada. “Now, over time, the Commission will be able to prove its worth to all Canadians, as it follows through on its mandate.”

“This is great news,” says Chris Summerville, Executive Director of the Manitoba Schizophrenia Society, and member of the MHCC board. “We’ve been worried this might just be a short term government initiative. But this additional and long term funding shows the issue of mental illness is not just an afterthought to the Federal Government. It shows a real commitment, and we are relieved the Conservative Government is making good on its promise to allow the Commission to fulfill its mandate and benefit the lives of Canadians, especially those living with mental health issues.”

The MHCC was created last August by Prime Minister Stephen Harper. The Commission is a non-profit organization created to focus national attention on mental health issues. It is funded by the federal government, but operates at arm’s length from all levels of government. The Commission’s objective is to enhance the health and social outcomes for Canadians living with mental health problems and illnesses.

For more information about the Commission’s initiatives and projects, go to its website: www.mentalhealthcommission.ca

For further information, please contact:

Romie Christie Manager of Communications Mental Health Commission of Canada 403-385-4034

Posted on
August 1/08

Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW) is an annual national public education campaign designed to help open the eyes of Canadians to the reality of mental illness. The week was established in 1992 by the Canadian Psychiatric Association, and is now coordinated by the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH) in cooperation with all its member organizations and many other supporters across Canada, including the Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation.

Nearly one in five Canadians is affected by mental illness, yet a persistent stigma prevents millions from getting the help they need. The continuing theme of Mental Illness Awareness Week - Face Mental Illness - is designed to change that.

By sharing their stories, the courageous "faces" of this campaign are helping bring mental illness out from the shadows. Their experiences are proof that through proper diagnosis, treatment and awareness, people with mental illnesses can live productive and fulfilling lives.

Visit http://www.miaw.ca/en/campaign/faces.aspx to learn more.

Posted on
July 15/08

The Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation’s (CPRF) Silver Dinner 2008 will feature keynote speaker Rona Maynard, former editor of Chatelaine and author of the long-awaited memoir My Mother's Daughter. The event is to be held at Toronto’s Four Seasons Hotel on Tuesday, November 25th, 2008. The title sponsor is TD Waterhouse Canada.

Ms. Maynard is a recipient of the National Champion of Mental Health Award from the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health. Her story is full of surprises. For years she never imagined she could reach the top of her field. She battled shyness and chronic depression. Ms. Maynard struggled to reconcile the pressures of her work with her role as a mother, wife and friend. Often she feared that she was failing. She had to learn – through therapy and personal commitment – to live each day as if it mattered. She didn’t set out to change people’s lives, but that’s what started to happen when she wrote from the heart about changing her own life. Her readers say that through Ms. Maynard’s storytelling, they gained a new perspective on their own lives.

Staunton Bowen and Elizabeth Vanstone Silver Dinner 2008 Co-Chairs say, “We’re thrilled to have Ms. Maynard join us this year. As a nationally known speaker with a great story, we’re certain to learn a great deal.”

About the Silver Dinner:

CPRF’s annual Silver Dinner routinely attracts more than 350 supporters, volunteers and corporate and community leaders. Together, they hear about challenges and activities relating to psychiatric research and medicine, as well as personal stories of struggle, triumph and compassion. Funds raised during the event will support mental illness and addiction research.

About CPRF:

The Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation (CPRF) is a national charitable organization founded in 1980. CPRF is the only national charity with a focus of funding mental illness and addiction research at universities, research institutes and teaching hospitals across the country.

CPRF’S mission: To improve the well being of Canadians by funding mental health and addiction research to build healthier lives. We accomplish this by:

Raising and distributing funds for mental health and addiction research. Translating the knowledge gained from mental health and addiction research. Advocating for mental health and addiction research investment.

About Mental Illness and Addiction:

Mental illness affects one in five Canadians. In Canada, 60-65% of all disability insurance claims involve mental disorders. Mental health claims are now the leading cause of short and long-term disability leaves – ahead of cancer, musculoskeletal and back problems, and accidents. Twenty percent of working women in Canada have been diagnosed or show signs of depression or anxiety. Of these women, only 35% are likely to discuss their symptoms/feelings with their employers.

For more information contact: Andrea Swinton Director, Fund Development and Marketing Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation Telephone: (416) 351-7757 Ext. 22 E-mail: aswinton@cprf.ca

Posted on
June 19/08

In Breakdown, The Globe and Mail documents the enormous, unaddressed cost of mental illness to Canadian individuals, families and society. The series closes with a search for solutions.

Visit http://www.theglobeandmail.com/breakdown to learn more.

Posted on
February 28/08

CALGARY, AB February 26, 2008 — Michael Kirby, Chair of the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), today expressed the Commission’s appreciation to the Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, the Finance Minister, the Honourable James Flaherty and the Honourable Tony Clement, the Minister of Health, for their leadership in promising $110 million to the MHCC for research projects to help Canadians with mental illness who are homeless. A high percentage of homeless people in Canada have mental health problems.

“Very little is known about the most effective ways of providing services to people living with mental illness who are homeless,” said Mr. Kirby. “What they require is a complex basket of services including supportive housing, access to primary health care and a wide range of other supports.”

The Commission will set up five demonstration research projects across Canada. Vancouver, Winnipeg, Toronto, Montreal and Moncton have been selected as sites for the research programs. Each project will focus on a distinct group of homeless people living with mental illness such as those who also have a substance abuse problem, Aboriginal Canadians and non-English speaking new immigrants. The demonstration projects will run simultaneously over a four year period.

“Collectively, the projects will develop a body of evidence which will enable Canada to lead the world in providing services to people living with mental illness who are homeless,” said Michael Kirby.

The research will also contribute to the Commission’s development of a national mental health strategy as well as to its efforts to reduce the stigmatization of mental illness and eliminate the discrimination that many people living with mental health problems and illnesses face on a daily basis.

The Mental Health Commission also looks forward to collaborating on these projects with a variety of partners: provincial and municipal governments, regional health authorities, service providers and service users.

The MHCC is a non-profit organization created to focus national attention on mental health issues. It is funded by the federal government but operates at arm’s length from all levels of government. The Commission’s objective is to enhance the health and social outcomes for Canadians living with mental health problems and illnesses.

To achieve this goal the Commission is pursuing three key initiatives: leading the development of a national mental health strategy; creating a ten-year campaign to reduce the widespread stigma associated with mental health problems and illnesses and eliminate the discrimination many people living with mental health problems and illnesses confront daily; and establishing a Knowledge Exchange Centre to make information about mental health and mental illness available to all Canadians and improve communication and collaboration across the mental health sector.

The Commission was announced by Prime Minister Stephen Harper in response to one of the recommendations in the report by the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology, titled Out of the Shadows at Last. Former Senator Michael Kirby was Chair of the Senate Committee at the time the report was released.

About the Mental Health Commission of Canada

The Mental Health Commission of Canada is governed by a Board of Directors, consisting of 11 non-governmental members, and seven who are appointed by Federal, Provincial and Territorial governments as well as the Chair – the Honourable Michael Kirby, who was appointed by the Government of Canada. The Board is assisted in its work by eight Advisory Committees.

For more information contact: Micheal Pietrus, Director of Information Services (403) 620-6154

Posted on
February 15/08

CALGARY, AB (February 15, 2008) The Honourable Michael Kirby, Chair of the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), today announced the appointment of Michael Howlett as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the newly formed Commission. His appointment will take effect February 18, 2008.

“Michael Howlett brings the vision, proven leadership and experience essential to help the Commission achieve its ultimate goal of keeping mental illness out of the shadows forever,” said Michael Kirby, Chair of the MHCC`s Board of Directors. “Michael Howlett has distinguished himself as a results-oriented business and non-profit sector leader who is respected for his work nationally and internationally. He understands the important balance of fiscal and philanthropic responsibility.”

Mr. Howlett is currently the President and CEO of the Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA). For the last five years, he has been a champion for those affected by diabetes, working with government, the medical and research community and business. Under his direction, the CDA experienced a dramatic turnaround. It has become a financially sound and effective national organization, internationally recognized as the authority in diabetes research, education and advocacy.

Mr. Howlett’s professional career spans three decades. Prior to joining CDA, he established himself both as a successful business leader and champion of causes that defended those who could not defend themselves.

“This is a great opportunity to make a difference. I have seen firsthand the effect poor mental health can have on a family, and I look forward to working on behalf of the Mental Health Commission to improve the lives of Canadians impacted by mental illness. We look to build strong partnerships with government and business to make mental health the foundation of total health,” said Mr. Howlett.

The MHCC is a non-profit organization created to focus national attention on mental health issues. It is funded by the federal government but operates at arm’s length from all levels of government. The Commission’s objective is to enhance the health and social outcomes for Canadians living with mental health problems and illnesses.

To achieve this goal the Commission is pursuing three key initiatives: leading the development of a national mental health strategy; creating a ten-year campaign to reduce the widespread stigma associated with mental health problems and illnesses; and establishing a Knowledge Exchange Centre to improve cross-sector communication about mental health and mental illness for all Canadians.

The Commission was announced by Prime Minister Stephen Harper in response to one of the recommendations in the report by the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology, titled “Out of the Shadows at Last – Transforming Mental Health, Mental Illness and Addiction Services in Canada.” Former Senator Michael Kirby was Chair of the Senate Committee and Senator Wilbert Keon served as Deputy Chair during the drafting of the report.

Funding for the Mental Health Commission of Canada was provided by the Government of Canada in its March 2007 budget, and the Mental Health Commission’s Board of Directors held its first meeting on September 10, 2007.

Mr. Kirby expressed his appreciation to Glenn Thompson for his leadership as Interim President and CEO of the MHCC over the past 7 months.

For more information contact: Micheal Pietrus, Director Information Services (403) 620-6154

Posted on
October 2/07

Toronto, Ontario – October, 2007

The Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation (CPRF) is proud to be the first national mental health charity to participate in the Shoppers Drug Mart Tree of Life Campaign.

David Feather, President, Mackenzie Financial Services Inc., says, “As a CPRF Board member, I’m pleased to see Shoppers Drug Mart/Pharmaprix recognizing the need to raise funds for mental health. One of the real health care tragedies in Canada is that research into possible cures for mental illness and addiction is embarrassingly under funded. It would be nice to see higher levels of funding dollars directed to help persons living with mental illness and addiction. The Shoppers Drug Mart Tree of Life Campaign is an excellent start.”

During the week of October 6th to 12th, Canadians can buy a leaf for a loonie, a maple leaf for $5 or an apple for $50 at any one of the 1,000 Shoppers Drug Mart locations across Canada or at Pharmaprix in Quebec. Proceeds will support CPRF’s youth initiatives including a series of workshops that will bring much needed youth and mental health best practice information to the community. This youth focused program would not be possible without CPRF funded research and research from partnering organizations that form the basis for program materials.

Canadian Mental Health Facts

Nearly 6 million, or 1 in 5 Canadians (20% of the population) today are likely to experience a diagnosable mental illness. Youth mental health is a particular concern. Some of the facts are:

*Highest prevalence of a mood, anxiety disorder or substance dependence is found among young adults 15-24 years. *About 4,000 Canadians commit suicide each year and it is the most common cause of death for people aged 15–24. Mental illness is a factor in most suicides. *18% percentage of adolescents (aged 15 – 24) report having a mental illness or substance abuse problem.

The Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation is a national charitable organization with a mission to improve the well being of Canadians by funding mental health and addiction research to build healthier lives. CPRF is a proud member of the Canadian Alliance for Mental Illness and Mental Heath and a proud supporter of the Mental Illness Awareness Week.

For media opportunities: Andrea Swinton Director, Fund Development and Marketing Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation 133 Richmond Street West Suite 200 Toronto, ON M5H 2L3 ph 416-351-7757 x22 fax 416-351-7765 email aswinton@cprf.ca website www.cprf.ca

Posted on
October 1/07

Toronto, October 1, 2007

The Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation (CPRF) is proud to partner with the St. Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation, Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation, McMaster University’s Faculty of Health Sciences and St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton to present Beyond the Business Case: Mental Illness in the Workplace, a breakfast event that will launch CPRF’s new resource guide, When Something’s Wrong: Strategies for the Workplace.

When Something’s Wrong: Strategies for the Workplace was designed to provide human resource professionals, business executives and the broader community with resources and strategies to address mental illness in the workplace.

This reference guide was developed in partnership with The Frank Cowan Foundation and the Cowan group of companies. “We are pleased to support the Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation” said Maureen Cowan. “By donating funds and working with the CPRF on this initiative, we are contributing to the health and well-being of people in workplaces throughout Canada.”

The launch event will include a panel discussion with: Jeff MacIntyre, Vice President of Business Development, Cowan Benefits Consulting Robert E. Waite, Senior Vice President of Stakeholder Relations and Brand at Canada Post Dr. Robert Zipursky, Vice President of Mental Health at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton Paul K. Bates, Dean and Industry Professor at the Michael G. DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University and Alex Lowy Chair of the Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation Workplace Project Alex Lowy, Chair, CPRF Workplace Committee and author and consultant. Alex will also act as Master of Ceremonies.

Admission is free, but seating is limited. Reserve your seat by calling 905.521.6079.

What: Beyond the Business Case: Mental Illness in the Workplace When: Thursday, October 4, 2007 7:30 a.m. Breakfast 8:00 a.m. Book Launch 8:30 a.m. Panel Discussion Where: Hamilton Chamber of Commerce 555 Bay Street North, Hamilton

Canadian Mental Health Workplace Facts

Nearly 6 million, or 1 in 5 Canadians (20% of the population) today are likely to experience a diagnosable mental illness in their lifetime.

Mental illness and addiction rank first and second as leading causes of disability in Canada and the United States.

Depression and anxiety disorders account for more than two thirds of short-term disability claims.

The World Health Organization estimates that by the year 2020 depression will be second only to heart disease as the leading global cause of disability and mortality.

The Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation is a national charitable organization with a mission to improve the well being of Canadians by funding mental health and addiction research to build healthier lives. CPRF is a proud member of the Canadian Alliance for Mental Illness and Mental Heath and a proud supporter of the Mental Illness Awareness Week. To order books, please visit http://cprf.ca/publication/order.html or call 416-351-7757.

The Frank Cowan Foundation is a charitable foundation that exists because of the success of the Cowan family of companies, including Frank Cowan Company, Cowan Insurance Brokers, Cowan Benefits Consulting and Cowan Financial Solutions. Together they provide insurance and risk management products and services, and assist employers with their group benefits, retirement and health and disability management plans.

For information about The Frank Cowan Foundation or the Cowan family of companies, please contact: Lynne Short, Vice President, Marketing and Communications, Cowan Insurance Group 519 - 650-6365 ext 31608 or lynne.short@cowangroup.ca. -30- For more information contact: Andrea Swinton Director, Fund Development and Marketing Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation Telephone: (416) 351-7757 Ext. 22 E-mail: aswinton@cprf.ca

Posted on
March 15/06

CPRF has moved! Our new office address is: Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation, 133 Richmond St. West, Suite 200, Toronto, ON, M5H 2L3. Phone, Fax and Email information remains the same: (416) 351-7757 (Tel); (416) 351-7765 (Fax); admin@cprf.ca (Email).