This issue of Visions: BC’s Mental Health and Addictions Journal explores Housing. Adequate housing—housing that is affordable, safe and health—plays a huge part in our overall health. Mental health or substance use problems can be pathways to poor housing or homelessness, but poor housing or homelessness can also contribute to mental health or substance use problems. It can be a complicated relationship with no ‘one size fits all’ solution, but we’re looking at innovative programs and approaches that are changing the way we think about housing.

This issue of Visions:BC's Mental Health and Addictions Journal explore Wellness. Everyone has their own definition of wellness and works towards their own wellness goals, but most of us intutitely sense what wellness means and how it benefits us. Many writers discuss wellness beyond the medical model of illness/no illness, and focus on feeling engaged, feeling centred, feeling like they're connected to something greater, or feeling empowered to take on problems or setbacks.

DWP teaches skills that help you manage symptoms of psychosis and move forward with your life. First, you'll learn more about psychosis and treatments. You'll learn more about monitoring your own symptoms, how they affect you, and what might make them worse. Next, you'll learn important skills like taking care of your health, solving problems, setting goals, and connecting with other people. Finally, you'll learn about moving forward and preventing relapse. This booklet can be used with the help of a Support Person—someone who can help you work through the toolkit and provide feedback.

Childhood sexual abuse can have a profound effect on mental health and well-being into adult. It’s estimated that one in three girls and one in six boys experience childhood sexual abuse in North America, so we have to recognize this trauma in our communities and support adult survivors. Childhood sexual abuse doesn’t mean that someone will experience a mental illness or substance use problem in adulthood, but it is one of many risk factors. Read or downloaded the fact sheet at www.heretohelp.bc.ca/factsheet/childhood-sexual-abuse-a-mental-health-issue.

We’ve launched a new series of booklets that discuss mental health in plain, clear language. The six booklets are: Tips for Good Mental Health, What is Anger, What is Anxiety, What is Mental Illness, What is Depression, and What is Suicide. Each booklet offers background information, practical tips and strategies to try at home, and key resources in BC communities. All of the booklets are recorded for readers who prefer to follow along while they read. Learn more about this exciting project at www.heretohelp.bc.ca/factsheet/plainer-language-series!

News release

January 23, 2013

Some people say this is the most depressing week of the year—when cold and dark days, holiday bills, and already-lapsed new year’s resolutions catch up with us. Whether you believe in that or not, it’s never a bad time to reflect on how time-of-year stresses and opportunities can affect your mental health.

This issue of Visions: BC's Mental Health and Addictions Journal explores mental health and substance use around pregnancy, postpartum and caring for an infant. It challenges the long-standing assumption that pregnancy and birth should be the happiest time in a family's life and highlights the importance of early recognition and support. You'll find personal stories from new moms and dads who experienced mental health or substance use challanges—and a lot of stigma—on their journies to wellness. You'll also find innovative programs and resources here in BC.