Edmonton Social Planning Council

Category: Social Issues: Health

  • CM: A New Community-Built, Community-Led Mental Health Strategy for Edmonton

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    By Giri Puligandla, Executive Director, Canadian Mental Health Association – Edmonton Region

     

    The Canadian Mental Health Association – Edmonton Region and United Way of the Alberta Capital Region are co-leading the development of a new community mental health strategy for Edmonton in partnership with the City of Edmonton. The strategy will involve a broad range of informants to guide a deep analysis of the current state and design a blueprint for a future system of community care for mental health and interrelated issues. A new governance structure will be established with people with lived experience and other affected community members in the lead. This structure will steward implementation of the strategy while ensuring accountability of service providers and funders to turn the blueprint into a reality.   

      

    People are confused and frustrated trying to get mental health supports in the community. 

    We hear the same stories today from people struggling to get help for their mental health struggles that we have heard for decades. People still do not know where to start the process or what the right thing to do is in a crisis. Many of the ideas that come to mind – like calling 911, going to the hospital, talking to a doctor, or seeing a psychologist – are hit-and-miss at best, harmful at worst, and are too often cause for people to stop trying. For example, some doctors may not adequately understand mental health issues, emergency personnel may not respond appropriately, and hospitals may be too backlogged. Even if by luck or privilege some initial help is received, getting to the next step may take someone right back to square one. A report by the Health Quality Council of Alberta (HQCA, 2020) examining family experiences seeking care for children and youth, captured this snakes-and-ladders view of mental health services: 

    “It is an absolute nightmare, because you just finish with one service, and you’ve gone through this whole rigmarole. It’s taken months . . . and then you have to start all over again, because there’s no connect between the two services.” (HQCA, 2020, p. 11) 

    When someone is dealing with the weight of crisis or worry, the last thing anyone needs is a confusing and uncertain array of options, let alone getting an inappropriate response or being dropped from one service to the next. What people need is a clear view of their next steps and a reliable pathway that makes it easy to access support for the first time and get more or less support as needed afterwards.  

    There is no coordinated system for community-based supports to address mental health, addiction, or related issues. 

    So why don’t we already have this in place? It is certainly not due to lack of investment or strategic planning: over the years, there have been many strategies, initiatives, and plans accompanied by significant funding to address known gaps and increase services in community. However, these investments are usually not rolled out in a systematic way – there are many funders that each make their own resourcing decisions, and the organizations that receive the funding typically deliver these services on their own. Any coordination among funders or service providers is sporadic or limited. Most funding for key services is usually time-limited and constrained to less than the full amount needed to deliver the service reliably and sustainably. As evident in a Canadian Mental Health Association report (CMHA, 2022) on how the pandemic impacted community mental health organizations across Canada, our problems in Edmonton seem to resonate with other communities nationally: 

    “It’s these little pockets of money that are never enough to actually provide the service that is expected…you’re reporting on it, and then you’re starting the next round of proposals again because the year is up. And it’s very challenging to retain the quality employees in these programs when you can never promise them stability and it’s really difficult to be strategic in your work and to make plans when you’re year to year…” (CMHA, 2022, p. 17) 

    What has become evident from talking to many community leaders is that as much as we like to think we have a “mental health system”, there is no system to speak of. A system implies intentional design and thoughtfulness about interconnections among its parts. We couldn’t randomize the way services are distributed throughout the community any better if we meant to do it.  

    What complicates matters further is that the top-down view of governments, funders, and organizations shape issues through specific policies, initiatives, and programs, artificially disconnecting them (and services and resources) from the way they are experienced by people and communities. This historical pattern of institutional responses has produced a series of initiatives that focus narrowly on one segmented issue after another, layering new resources in communities but in a disorganized way. The irony is that the interconnections are painfully visible from the vantage point of lived experience: people who are struggling with mental health, addiction, suicide, violence, trauma, or social disorder are usually experiencing them as a combination of causes and effects, often compounding and exacerbating each other. Despite the interconnections plainly visible from the vantage point of lived experience, the historical pattern of institutional responses has produced a series of initiatives that focus narrowly on one segmented issue after another. Fortunately, the City of Edmonton’s Community Safety and Well Being Strategy (CSWB, 2022) and the Alberta Mental Health and Addictions Advisory Council’s Alberta Model of Wellness (AMHAAC, 2022) represent approaches that address intersections among this constellation of issues.  

    Previous strategies have not put enough weight on community perspectives and lived experience. 

    The CSWB commits to a “a deliberate and concerted effort to put community at the centre” (CSWB, 2022, p. 3). The Alberta Model of Wellness elevates the importance of feeding individual experience into system (re)design: 

    “The experiences of individuals with lived and living experience of recovery, as well as their families, peers, allies and/or networks, are invaluable in informing the design and implementation of effective recovery-oriented care. Experiences should be inclusive of vulnerable and historically excluded groups.” (AMHAAC, 2022, p. 20) 

    What will make this new mental health strategy different – and more impactful – is that it will turn the usual power structure upside down: people with lived experience and community members will have the most influence in designing the future system of community care. This is a sharp contrast to the government, institutional, and service provision lenses that typically dominate the definition of both problems and solutions, with minimal involvement of the people who live them. The end result will be a system blueprint designed by community members that embodies how they experience the breadth of mental health and related issues and offers clear, predictable pathways to get support when, how, where, and from whom it makes the most logical sense through their healing journey and lifespan. 

    While the strategy is being built, the community-led governance structure will be established to bring it to fruition and guide its implementation. This will similarly blaze a new trail for Edmonton, giving direction-setting and decision-making authority to end-users and community members as the new system gets built. Change management will be critical to enabling the governance structure to lead strategy implementation because it depends on repositioning service provider organizations, institutions, funders, and governments as accountable to and in service of its direction. 

    Fundamentally, if we don’t fix the current situation and do it in the right way, the mental health and related issues that are visibly escalating in our city will have deep and long-lasting consequences on our families, communities, and economy. While we should have designed the system people needed a long time ago, sometimes adversity opens doors for thinking and action that can produce real transformation. That’s the hope, and why so many of us believe we can finally make it happen now. 

    Note: This is an excerpt from our December 2022 Community Matters, you can read the full publication here

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    References: 

    Alberta Mental Health and Addictions Advisory Council (2022). Toward an Alberta Model of Wellness: Recommendations from the Alberta Mental Health and Addictions Advisory Council. Government of Alberta. Retrieved from https://open.alberta.ca/publications/toward-an-alberta-model-of-wellness 

    Canadian Mental Health Association National Office (2022). Running on Empty: How Community Mental Health Organizations Have Fared on the Frontlines of the Pandemic. Retrieved from https://cmha.ca/brochure/running-on-empty-report/ 

    City of Edmonton (2022). Community Safety and Well Being Strategy. Retrieved from https://www.edmonton.ca/city_government/initiatives_innovation/community-safety-well-being-strategy 

    Health Quality Council of Alberta (2020). Parent and Guardian Experiences with Mental Health Services for Children and Youth. Retrieved from https://hqca.ca/mentalhealth 

     

     

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    1. Blog: Space for Mental Health in Social Policy

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      Over the years, mental health has become part of the daily conversation for many, and there is a need for social policies that create collaboration space to improve human well-being. 

      By Eanimi Deborah Agube, ESPC Volunteer

       

      Introduction 

      Although the term Mental Health has become more popular and acceptable today, there is still a need for awareness on implementing initiatives, procedures and policies. Social policies on mental health work to improve human well-being and contribute to better and more healthy communities.  These social policies ensure funding and collaboration opportunities to address access to the need for Mental Health services without discrimination. Many Mental Health initiatives are centred around communities for services, funding and support. However, “engaging community members in localized actions for well-being does not remove from governments’ responsibilities to provide high-quality social services” (Fisher, 2022, pp. 567–581).

      Why is this important? 

      The conversations around Mental Health are becoming more about action and awareness since the COVID-19 pandemic; there has been an increased observation on mental health individuals and organizations have become more aware of the need for mental health initiatives. It is reported that insurance companies paid out $580 million in mental health claims in 2022, a 75 percent increase from 2019 (O’Hara, 2022). This increase in awareness and action is also shown in a study by the Alberta Medical Association that noted that 70 percent of parents in Alberta said their children’s mental health was worse since the pandemic (Smith, 2022).  

      Mental Health concerns have indeed existed long before the pandemic, as it is noted that “one in five adult Canadians will have a mental disorder in their lives” (Canadian Mental Health Association, 2023). However, the pandemic brought about a higher rise in awareness. The reality of so many Canadians surviving mental health issues makes it crucial that social policies address mental health in communities. These social policies should be able to manage mental health at all stages, which means including programs like the Provincial Mental Health Diversion. This program is intended to address the criminalization of mental health crises. Social policies around mental health ensure adequate funding, advocacy and mental health awareness. 

      Mental Health and Social Policy in Alberta 

      Organizations like the Canadian Mental Health Association and the Alberta Health Services (AHS) have taken action to advocate for mental health in Alberta. These actions include reviewing the AHS mental health and addictions programs (Bellefontaine, 2023). The logistics of this review are still in progress, as the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions is seeking an outside contractor. The Government of Alberta is also working on a new Alberta model that adopts a recovery-oriented approach and will aid in building six new recovery communities (Government of Alberta, 2023).  

      The province of Alberta continues to take numerous steps to acknowledge the need for better mental health measures and promote better funding for mental health advocacy. For example, the Red Deer News Now reported that in 2022, the Alberta government announced a $3.4 million investment (rdnewsNOW Staff, 2022) to build a Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre (CACAC). The CACAC provides services to children facing abuse and mental health issues. This investment is part of a framework that collaborates in providing social services.  

      How to get involved? 

      Many communities and groups have taken various steps to continue the conversation around mental health; some of these steps include working with local organizations to provide services that address the different needs of the community. For a more general approach that ensures that the Government of Alberta introduces social policies, the CMHA suggests that members of communities reach out to their MLA to ask for more mental health programs.  (Canadian Mental Health Association, 2021)   

      The Mental health and Addictions advisory council’s recommendation helps the Ministry of Health transform mental health services; this is evident in the recent recovery-oriented system approach. Community members can contact the board to voice suggestions and share experiences highlighting the importance of social services and policies.   

      The CMHA Alberta Division also has multiple mental health programs that are community-based and grassroots-run, including;  

      • Free virtual mental health resources  
      • In-person and virtual community-based peer support for military and first responders  
      • Community events like conferences, fundraising events, conversations and inclusivity support  

      Summary 

      In summary, awareness of mental health and the issues that arises from poor mental health is crucial for the well-being of Canadians. Alberta’s social policies ensure that mental health is not just a buzzword. Social policies ensure that steps are taken to ensure that the issues are being addressed. Mental health conversations and actions continue to be needed in today’s world, and policies are being implemented to ensure that actions are taken to improve citizens’ well-being. While there is evidence of change and implementation of social policies, this is only a journey. 

       

      Eanimi Agube’s interest in working to understand better ways to empower communities and learn more about the challenges faced by marginalized communities has led her to complete her Master’s degree in Community and Regional Planning. In her spare time, she is an avid podcast listener, an aspiring adventurer and an animal lover. 

      References

      Alberta Health Services. (2018). Provincial Mental Health Diversion Program Service Operating Requirement. Calgary: Alberta Health Services. Retrieved from https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/info/Page2767.aspx 

      Bellefontaine, M. (2023). Alberta Health Services to undergo review of mental health, addictions services. CBC. Retrieved from: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/alberta-health-services-to-undergo-review-of-mental-health-addictions-services-1.6736266 

      Canadian Mental Health Association. (2021). Mental Health Must Be Part of the Equation Canadian Mental Health Association. Retrieved from: https://alberta.cmha.ca/news/mental-health-must-be-part-of-the-equation/ 

      Canadian Mental Health Association. (2023). Mental Illness in Canada. Alberta Division Canadian Mental Health Association. Retrieved from: https://alberta.cmha.ca/mental-illness-in-canada/ 

      Fisher, M. (2022). Moving Social Policy from Mental Illness to Public Wellbeing. Journal of Social Policy, pp. 567581. Retrieved from: https://doi.org/10.1017/S0047279421000866 

      Government of Alberta. (2022). Mental health and addictions advisory council. Government of Alberta. Retrieved from: https://www.alberta.ca/mental-health-and-addiction-advisory-council.aspx 

      Government of Alberta. (2023). The Alberta Model: A Recovery-Oriented System of Care. Government of Alberta. Retrieved from: https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-recovery-oriented-system-of-care.aspx 

      O’Hara, C. (2022). Insurers see leap in claims for mental health services amid pandemic strains. The Globe and Mail. Retrieved from: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/article-insurers-see-leap-in-claims-for-mental-health-services-amid-pandemic/ 

      Red Deer News Now Staff. (2022). Province announces $3.4 million investment for Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre. Red Deer News Now. Retrieved from: https://rdnewsnow.com/2022/03/01/province-announces-3-4-million-investment-for-central-alberta-child-advocacy-centre/ 

      Smith, K. (2022). More than 70% of teens report worse mental health compared to before COVID: Survey Global News. Retrieved from: https://globalnews.ca/news/8882754/alberta-teens-mental-health-covid-survey/ 

       

       

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                                                                            1. CM: Cultural Competency in Mental Health Services: Perspectives from the Africa Centre

                                                                              [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ use_custom_gutter=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#a6c942″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”||||||||” custom_margin=”||3px|||” border_color_bottom=”#a6c942″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https://edmontonsocialplanning.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/COLOUR-BLOCKS_spaced-300×51.png” title_text=”COLOUR BLOCKS_spaced” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default” max_width=”100%” max_height=”75px” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”10px|0px|20px|0px|false|false” global_module=”96648″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ use_custom_gutter=”on” make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” custom_margin=”0px|auto|0px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”30px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _dynamic_attributes=”content” _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|600|||||||” text_text_color=”#2b303a” custom_padding=”||32px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9kYXRlIiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJkYXRlX2Zvcm1hdCI6ImRlZmF1bHQiLCJjdXN0b21fZGF0ZV9mb3JtYXQiOiIifX0=@[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.0″ text_text_color=”#2b303a” text_line_height=”1.6em” header_2_font=”||||||||” header_2_text_color=”#008ac1″ header_2_font_size=”24px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” text_orientation=”justified” width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”25px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]

                                                                              By Amanda Labonte

                                                                               

                                                                              Odion Welch, Mental Health Youth Program Coordinator and Yawa Idi, Program Coordinator Enhancing Gender Equity Program and Program Coordinator of the Counselling Clinic with Africa Centre, engaged in a deep discussion about cultural competence in mental health supports. 

                                                                              Africa Centre serves many people under their mental health programming, Welch and Idi stated the youngest participant currently is around the age of six and the oldest is 67. While Africa Centre’s mental health programming is delivered from a Black lens, their services are not solely limited to the African community or those who are of African descent, recognizing not all Black people identify as African, nor are they all of African descent. Since Black identities are diverse and multifaceted, there are a variety of backgrounds and worldviews that make up these communities. These programs are open to any race, age, or gender identity. 

                                                                              Power of Language 

                                                                              Welch and Idi stated that their approach to mental health and wellness is to work against mental health stigma and try to avoid the use of illness or health disorder language. The focus is to promote the emotional, psychological and social well-being of an individual so they can actively participate in society to their fullest. 

                                                                              Definitions of ‘mental health’ or ‘mental wellness’ are broad. Welch and Idi stated young clients, often want to have discussions about mental health and have an awareness of what depression and/or anxiety mean. For older folks, the language can be different and might focus more on the experience of how mental health support feels good. Welch stated that there are over 210 languages on the continent of Africa and only 32 of those languages have words for mental health, depression or anxiety.  

                                                                              Some newcomers or immigrants who come to Canada may not understand questions like “how is your depression/anxiety” because in their language mental health is not well defined. Instead, practitioners and service providers should use language like ‘what is stressing you out or what is your biggest burden?’ Welch and Idi stated the language used, when fueled by cultural competency, engages a dialogue that is going to improve their mental wellness situation. A conversation can be had with a person and not once mention mental health – yet still engage in a discussion about it. 

                                                                              At the Africa Centre, Idi stated multiple languages are available, removing a barrier of access. She stated something as simple as greeting someone in their language changes the whole therapeutic relationship. Removing the interpreter was also identified as important. This was because previously sometimes the interpreter was a family member. This can be difficult, especially when discussing difficult topics like living in a refugee camp or having experienced trauma. It can be difficult to share fully when you may not want to harm the family member present. 

                                                                                

                                                                              Reducing Stigma around Mental Health 

                                                                              According to Idi, the mental health issues they witness at their clinic affect a person’s ability to participate in society to their fullest. Mental wellness has impacts not only on our emotional selves but also on our physical selves. 

                                                                              Welch explained how using and engaging with organizations like Africa Centre, who are already doing the work is key. Promote programs like Africa Centre’s ArTeMo project, an action based mental health project, where intergenerational folks come together and connect art, mindfulness and mental wellness. A space where mental health and wellness can be discussed without it being obvious contributes to stigma reduction and cultural competency. Welsch and Idi explained that bringing folks into mental health spaces sometimes needs to be different and not a ‘Mental Health 101’.  They explained how most people will not walk into a Mental Health 101 seminar/workshop but are going to engage in an activity they already enjoy with people they already know. 

                                                                              It’s about having empathy. How someone from one place is going to interpret and experience mental health and wellness is going to be different than an experience of someone from somewhere else. Many dynamics can come into play, what language and words are used, gender and family roles, and how that tension can play out when not meeting familial expectations. Welsch explained how rebelling against family expectations is not as common in some cultures.  

                                                                              Welch and Idi stated places that are supposed to be serving the community often have business hours of 9 to 5, but community doesn’t happen strictly within the 9 to 5 schedule. Kids are in school, people are at work, university students – Africa Centre offers counselling hours and programming evenings and weekends, and those spaces fill up quickly.  

                                                                              Welch and Idi stated for a lot of folks, it is about raising everyday awareness and providing accessible resources, it’s about breaking stigma and changing how mental health is implemented. In the end it is not so much about what people say when they leave a program, but more so what they are doing when they leave.   

                                                                              Cultural Intelligence and Cultural Competency 

                                                                              Welch and Idi agreed that one of the biggest and most important pieces of work the Africa Centre does is having cultural intelligence and cultural competency. This extends into the counselling and preventative programs. This ensures that the therapy room is a culturally safe place. 

                                                                              “It is very important to have rigorous cultural competency incorporated with these clinics. There are a lot of Muslims and Christians within the Black and African communities, and that cultural knowledge needs to be understood. Certain behaviours that might be perceived as schizophrenic from a Western perspective, for instance a belief in communicating with spirits or ancestors, are actually cultural or spiritual practices being exhibited. As a consequence, they might be wrongfully admitted to a hospital and prescribed medicine when in reality they are of sound mind.” 

                                                                              People do not recognize how hard it is to become a citizen and the cost is incredible. Between getting educational credentials recognized and English proficiency exams, can create frustration and can be isolating especially when people are here alone. Looking at and recognizing these additional challenges is important.  

                                                                              Africa Centre has a $10 per day daycare that is also culturally intelligent and culturally competent. As well as so many other programs, this helps reduce stressors that contribute to people’s mental wellness. A good mental wellness program looks at all aspects of mental wellness, and that includes providing resources that help reduce stress.  

                                                                              Welch and Idi explained how they and everyone is still learning because “we are not the experts because there is so much to know, you can’t be the expert of all cultures and experiences.” It is the willingness to unlearn every day. 

                                                                              Impacts 

                                                                              The Africa Centre’s program is growing. Idi shared how in the months of January and February there were about 38 appointments at the clinic serving about 10 to 12 people consistently. Now there are 111 appointments a month, and people are proactively reaching out to the clinic. There have been over 400 people through the clinic in 2 years. A clinic that started with part-time hours and is now full-time, where so many more people can be reached.  

                                                                              Welch and Idi shared that research is now being conducted about Black youth and mental health particularly in Alberta.  Much of the available Canadian research on underrepresented communities was from eastern Canada, which does not represent the Alberta experience or resources. Seeing an increase in research will help inform policies and put policies in place such as having the clinic that will help improve the mental health and mental well-being of the community.  

                                                                              If we have saved one person’s life or kept one person in university who might change the world, it’s worth it. We are keeping kids in school, keeping the next generation of policymakers in school, we are saving lives, and creating safe spaces. Lives saved and hearts changed are way more important than any policy change we could ever make. 

                                                                              What Can You Do?  

                                                                              Welsch and Idi stated having organizations look at themselves holistically and bring in anti-racism training or multi-cultural training were paramount because at the end of the day every resource someone accesses impacts their mental health.  They stated organizations need to ask themselves: How can we eliminate degrading experiences and how can we learn and do better? What are we doing to understand cultures? Because that saves lives. They stated organizations need to enhance their capacity internally. 

                                                                              They stated that people need to actively invest in mental health and wellness. Don’t just read the article, get involved in some way, in some capacity. See how you can support the work going on. How you can contribute. What leverage you can bring. If you can’t help maybe, you know someone who can. Investing in anything with mental health. Not only in the communities we serve but, in your communities, as well. As we normalize mental health it benefits everyone. Idi compared it to being like going to a doctor’s appointment, where someone can say “sorry I can’t I have therapy tonight” and that is completely valid and accepted. 

                                                                              Welsch and Idi stated that looking at our language, looking at operating hours, listening to what people are saying and challenging our own perception of what mental health is, and not being afraid to say whatever we are doing existed before us. The kemetic yoga classes were powerful because having folks recognize a form of yoga came from Egypt meant people felt they were connecting to their roots, and this became more meaningful. They stated, we know when discussing mental health that community connection, and culture are key factors in developing self-esteem, resiliency and perseverance. So how can we do that and how can we do that in a safe, kind loving way? 

                                                                              If you or someone you know is in need of mental health supports or if you would like to learn more about Africa Centre: 

                                                                              Counselling  

                                                                              Mental Health Mentorship Program  

                                                                               

                                                                              Note: This is an excerpt from our December 2022 Community Matters, you can read the full publication here

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                                                                              1. Research Review: Mental Health: A conversation missing black youth

                                                                                [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ use_custom_gutter=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#a6c942″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”||||||||” custom_margin=”||3px|||” border_color_bottom=”#a6c942″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https://edmontonsocialplanning.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/COLOUR-BLOCKS_spaced-300×51.png” title_text=”COLOUR BLOCKS_spaced” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.7.7″ _module_preset=”default” max_width=”100%” max_height=”75px” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”10px|0px|20px|0px|false|false” global_module=”96648″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ use_custom_gutter=”on” make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” custom_margin=”0px|auto|0px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”30px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _dynamic_attributes=”content” _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|600|||||||” text_text_color=”#2b303a” custom_padding=”||32px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9kYXRlIiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJkYXRlX2Zvcm1hdCI6ImRlZmF1bHQiLCJjdXN0b21fZGF0ZV9mb3JtYXQiOiIifX0=@[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”https://edmontonsocialplanning.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Research-Review-3.pdf” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”Download the Research Review (PDF)” _builder_version=”4.20.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_button=”on” button_text_color=”#ffffff” button_bg_color=”#008ac1″ custom_margin=”||19px|||” custom_padding=”||5px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″][/et_pb_button][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.0″ text_text_color=”#2b303a” text_line_height=”1.6em” header_2_font=”||||||||” header_2_text_color=”#008ac1″ header_2_font_size=”24px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” text_orientation=”justified” width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”25px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]

                                                                                This qualitative report, Access to Mental Health for Black Youths in Alberta (Salami et al.) is reviewed by Eanimi Agube and was published by Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention in Canada. 

                                                                                The qualitative research report Access to mental health for Black youths in Alberta explores the issues with access to mental health services and the perception of mental health among the 129 Black-identifying youths between the age of 16 and 30 that participated in the study.

                                                                                [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|20px|0px|20px|false|false” border_color_left=”#a6c942″ global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_testimonial author=”Posted by:” job_title=”@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9hdXRob3IiLCJzZXR0aW5ncyI6eyJiZWZvcmUiOiIiLCJhZnRlciI6IiIsIm5hbWVfZm9ybWF0IjoiZGlzcGxheV9uYW1lIiwibGluayI6Im9uIiwibGlua19kZXN0aW5hdGlvbiI6ImF1dGhvcl93ZWJzaXRlIn19@” portrait_url=”@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9hdXRob3JfcHJvZmlsZV9waWN0dXJlIiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnt9fQ==@” quote_icon=”off” portrait_width=”125px” portrait_height=”125px” disabled_on=”on|off|off” _builder_version=”4.16″ _dynamic_attributes=”job_title,portrait_url” _module_preset=”default” body_text_color=”#000000″ author_font=”||||||||” author_text_align=”center” author_text_color=”#008ac1″ position_font=”||||||||” position_text_color=”#000000″ company_text_color=”#000000″ background_color=”#ffffff” text_orientation=”center” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”0px|0px|4px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”32px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text disabled_on=”on|off|off” _builder_version=”4.16″ _dynamic_attributes=”content” _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ header_text_align=”left” header_text_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.65)” header_font_size=”20px” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”||50px|||” custom_padding=”48px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9jYXRlZ29yaWVzIiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiUmVsYXRlZCBjYXRlZ29yaWVzOiAgIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJsaW5rX3RvX3Rlcm1fcGFnZSI6Im9uIiwic2VwYXJhdG9yIjoiIHwgIiwiY2F0ZWdvcnlfdHlwZSI6ImNhdGVnb3J5In19@[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

                                                                              2. Blog: Unhoused: Dangers of the Cold 

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                                                                                This article focuses on the realities of individuals who are unhoused, while facing extreme Alberta winters. The purpose is to understand the extent of this health crisis, create conversation, and facilitate system change for our unhoused neighbours.

                                                                                By Mackenzie Dachuk, Practicum Student

                                                                                 

                                                                                Extreme cold temperatures in Canada are often expected and unavoidable, and people experiencing houselessness face greater risks for their health and safety. Blizzards, ice storms, high winds, and blowing snow can develop quickly, and threaten life and property (Alberta, n.d.). Alberta experiences cold and extreme cold temperatures during the winter, when temperatures can reach as low as minus 40 degrees Celsius and can remain consistently below minus 10 degrees Celsius (Alberta, n.d.). When temperatures reach this low, it becomes extremely life threatening for vulnerable populations and those experiencing houselessness as they may experience frost bite, hypothermia, shock, or fire hazards.  

                                                                                The relationship between houselessness and health outcomes is evident within our society, and with the addition of cold and extreme cold temperatures during the winter, it makes matters worse. The houseless population experiences numerous physical health problems, such as infectious diseases, chronic diseases, injuries, exposure, nutritional deficiencies, and foot and skin issues (Public Health Ontario, 2019).  

                                                                                Homeward Trust shows there were more than 2800 people experiencing homelessness in Edmonton, with over 700 living outdoors and nearly 500 living in shelters (Homeward Trust, 2023). People experiencing homelessness in Edmonton are at a much greater risk of different physical and mental health concerns and are having a disproportionately large impact on the health care system (Swenserude, 2023). In a community and public services committee meeting, lead medical officer Dr. Chris Sikora discusses the solution to the overburdened health care system as enhancing the supportive housing environments for the houseless. (2023)  

                                                                                “Some individuals might be at risk for homeless but not yet homeless, we need to keep them housed” (Sikora, 2023) 

                                                                                Individuals experiencing houselessness are disproportionately affected by extreme weather conditions. There has been a drastic increase in the number of houseless individuals who had to undergo amputations due to extreme cold, resulting from frost bite (Counterfire, 2023). For the working houseless, this becomes an even bigger struggle. Many of these individuals who have undergone amputations are often discharged back to houselessness where healing and getting around are even more challenging, and many can no longer work (Huncar, 2022). Alberta Health Services has said they do not track amputations from frostbite, deaths, or causes of deaths among houseless individuals living in Edmonton and had no further information to provide (Huncar, 2022). Injuries and amputations due to frostbite have been on the rise, yet it is concerning that deaths due to hypothermia and frost bite amputations remain unrecorded. Our houseless community members deserve to have these injuries and deaths recorded so that the government, health care services, and the larger community can better understand the scope of the problem, and can get a clear picture of peoples lived experience (Huncar, 2022).  

                                                                                When individuals experiencing houselessness work to avoid frostbite injuries, they put themselves at further risk by lighting fires within their encampment or dumpsters to stay warm and dry. Tent fires are an increasingly common occurrence, especially in cities with a large houseless population (Huang et al., 2021). Individuals experiencing houselessness are creative and resourceful in trying to find efforts to keep warm, however these resources are still extremely dangerous to the unhoused without proper shelter or tools. Houseless individuals who are dwelling in these tents have specific risk factors that predispose them to fire injury, such as makeshift kitchens within a confined and flammable tent (Huang et al., 2021). Burn injuries and deaths due to tent fires is a public health crisis with consequences for the health and safety of our houseless population and those around them (Huang et al., 2021). Further, losing one’s tent which is that person’s home has devastating effects.  

                                                                                The City of Edmonton has developed the “Supporting Vulnerable People During Extreme Weather Conditions” policy, which has been put in place to ensure Edmonton’s commitment to reducing the health impacts of extreme weather conditions on vulnerable people. “The City of Edmonton and Homeward Trust work collaboratively to facilitate an emergency response during extreme heat and cold temperatures and peak shelter occupancy to ensure community members have a safe place to be” (Homeward Trust, 2022). With roughly 2700 Edmontonians experiencing houselessness, the Edmonton Coalition for Housing and Houselessness says at least 1550 additional shelter spaces are needed. Homeward Trust provides information on available shelter spaces that include 24/7 shelters, day services, and the Boyle Street Community Services Winter Warming Bus which operates throughout the winter regardless of temperatures (2022). For Alberta, the Extreme Cold Warning is issued when temperatures or windchill are expected to reach minus 40 degrees Celsius, whereas in the City of Toronto, warming centers are activated when an Extreme Cold Weather Alert has been issued of minus 15 degrees Celsius or colder temperatures, or a wind chill of minus 15 degrees Celsius or colder (City of Toronto, n.d.).  

                                                                                 Many environmental and health organizations provide safety tips and precautions to the public when our communities face extreme cold weather. These preparation and safety tips include winterizing your home, inspecting your heating systems, and preparing your vehicle before winter arrives (National Center for Environmental Health, 2022). Other preparation and safety tips include minimizing travel, staying indoors during cold spells, wearing warm clothing, and staying dry and out of the wind (National Weather Service, n.d.). These safety tips and precautions are very privileged in that they are directed at individuals who have the supplies, means and shelter to remain comfortable throughout the winter months. For our houseless community members, these safety tips and precautions do not account for the barriers in accessing proper gear and clothing to facing the cold and extreme cold.  

                                                                                Individuals experiencing houselessness often resort to these warming centers and fires to keep warm, however, a lack of appropriate weather wear and accessibility to this gear is a barrier for our houseless community members. When individuals have the proper clothing to withstand cold temperatures this can help, but wet and damp clothing is another factor that must be taken into consideration. Though the human body can regulate temperature change, “…the most dangerous and rapid heat loss occurs when clothing is wet, wind is high, surfaces are cold, or when body is immersed in cold water” (UFCW, n.d.). 

                                                                                Edmonton’s Supporting Vulnerable People During Extreme Weather Conditions policy is only put into effect during cases of extreme weather, which they define as “…hazardous weather or environmental event that poses a significant threat to public safety and property.” Why does policy only intervene and support individuals who are houseless when the weather is deemed cold enough by people who do not know what it is like to be experiencing houselessness during winter conditions. Housing and support during any type of weather conditions is a human right for all community members including those experiencing houselessness. 

                                                                                Understanding the extent of houselessness and the experiences of those who are houseless enables communities and services to develop supports to reduce it (Public Health Ontario, 2019). Houseless individuals living in cold and extreme cold conditions has become a health crisis with consequences for the health and safety of our houseless population and those around them. (Huang et al., 2021). There needs to be a push for accessible and supportive housing, including access to appropriate clothing to withstand the harsh winter conditions. As for the community, we must do better for our vulnerable neighbors and houseless community members.  

                                                                                 

                                                                                Mackenzie Dachuk is currently in her third year of the Bachelor of Social Work program at MacEwan University and is completing her practicum with the Edmonton Social Planning Council. She has a passion for helping others and empowering them in achieving their goals. Mackenzie plays hockey for the MacEwan women’s team and enjoys sports, travel, and connecting with the community. 

                                                                                 

                                                                                References 

                                                                                Alberta.ca. (n.d.) Blizzards, freezing rain, ice storms and extreme cold. Retrieved from https://www.alberta.ca/blizzards-freezing-rain-ice-storms-and-extreme-cold.aspx  

                                                                                Government of Canda. (n.d.). Criteria for public weather alerts. Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/types-weather-forecasts-use/public/criteria-alerts.html 

                                                                                City of Toronto. (n.d.) Warming Centers. Retrieved from https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/housing-shelter/homeless-help/warming-centres-2/#:~:text=The%20City’s%20Warming%20Centres%20are,20%C2%B0%20C%20or%20colder 

                                                                                City of Toronto. (n.d.) Extreme Cold Weather. Retrieved from https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/health-wellness-care/health-programs-advice/extreme-cold-weather/ 

                                                                                Clarke, J., (2023, January 19). Winter cold is social murder for the homeless. Counterfire. Retrieved from https://www.counterfire.org/article/winter-cold-is-social-murder-for-the-homeless/  

                                                                                Homeward Trust Edmonton. (2023, February 6). Data, analytics and reporting. Retrieved from https://homewardtrust.ca/data-analytics-reporting/  

                                                                                Homeward Trust Edmonton. (2023, February 7). Sector emergency response. Retrieved from https://homewardtrust.ca/sector-emergency-response/ 

                                                                                Huncar, A. (2022, November 24). Front-line workers seeing more amputations Edmonton homeless community. CBC News. Retrieved from https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/homeless-edmonton-amputations-1.6662721    

                                                                                Huang, S., Choi, K. J., Pham, C. H., Collier, Z. J., Dang, J. M., Kiwanuka, H., Sheckter, C. C., Yenikomshian, H. A., & Gillenwater, J. (2021). Homeless tent fires: A descriptive analysis of tent fires in the homeless population. Journal of Burn Care & Research, 42(5), 886-893. https://doi-org.ezproxy.macewan.ca/10.1093/jbcr/irab095  

                                                                                National Center for Environmental Health. (2022). Stay safe and healthy in winter. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/features/winterweather/index.html 

                                                                                National Weather Service (n.d.) Extreme Cold Safety Tips. Retrieved from https://www.weather.gov/bgm/outreachExtremeColdSafety 

                                                                                Public Health Ontario. (2019). Homelessness and health outcomes: What are the associations? Retrieved from https://www.publichealthontario.ca/-/media/documents/E/2019/eb-homelessness-health.pdf 

                                                                                Sikora, C. Effects of homelessness on the healthcare ecosystem. (2023, February 7). City of Edmonton Community and Public Services Committee. Retrieved from https://pub-edmonton.escribemeetings.com/Players/ISIStandAlonePlayer.aspx?Id=f0e0c375-a3fd-4f3c-a92f-1d63fc85517d 

                                                                                Swensrude, S. (2023, February 7). Homeless in Edmonton face health challenges, but stable housing can help. Global News. Retrieved from https://globalnews.ca/news/9467677/edmonton-homeless-health-challenges-report/ 

                                                                                United Food and Commerical Workers Union (UFCW). (n.d.). Health and Safety. Retrieved from https://www.ufcw.ca/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=42&Itemid=123&lang=en#:~:text=The%20most%20dangerous%20and%20rapid,conditions%20or%20with%20dry%20clothing 

                                                                                 

                                                                                 

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                                                                                                                                                      1. CM: The Ongoing Grieving Process: Perspectives of Participants of the Life After Suicide Loss Program

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                                                                                                                                                        *Trigger Warning: Please be advised that some of the content in this post may be upsetting or triggering Content includes topics of: Addiction, substance abuse, suicide and trauma

                                                                                                                                                         

                                                                                                                                                        Losing a loved one to suicide is difficult but having the support of others can be a source of strength. The Canadian Mental Health Association provides services for those who need suicide bereavement support. Services are provided at no cost and are available to adults who have lost someone they know to suicide. The program covers 3 modules over 12 weeks, is group focused and is offered on a virtual platform. To learn more about the program click here.   

                                                                                                                                                        Two participants of the program have courageously shared their experiences with loss, grief and mental wellness. They both wanted readers to know if you have experienced suicide loss, you are not alone. 

                                                                                                                                                        Tyla Tong 

                                                                                                                                                        Our family lost  Shahean Aboud to suicide on 18 March 2021. He was a charismatic, full of life and laughter kind of guy who loved dogs and his family. He worked in the oil field…. long hours…. making way too much money and in the end succumbed to his addictions. First cocaine and meth and then onto more serious drugs where he then died by taking his own life. After spending over a decade with him I had to come to the realization that the man I married was no longer the same man that stood before me plagued with drugs and addiction. 

                                                                                                                                                        We were together for 15 years and suffered the loss of our beloved pet in 2014. I don’t think that he had the coping skills to deal with grief because grief isn’t something we talked about in our marriage or with our families. It just didn’t come up. He fell to drugs as a coping mechanism and even more so when things started to unravel from the addiction.  

                                                                                                                                                        I happened to find this program [Life After Suicide Loss] one evening. I was watching a TV show called a Million Little Things and they made reference to the Canadian Mental Health Association. At that moment I grabbed my phone and started to research; I wonder if there’s something here that could provide some level of support as I went through the grieving process. I had never even heard of the Canadian Mental Health Association [CMHA]. Much like Shahean I had never really struggled in that facet, so I never had a need to research it. Luckily, I found the Life After Suicide Loss and Bereavement group. It took an immense amount of courage to reach out, but I did. I sent an e-mail, and I thought maybe someone would respond, maybe they won’t, but at this point, I knew I was struggling with grief and loss and needed some support.  

                                                                                                                                                        They responded to me within a day, and they provided me with pamphlets, a book about suicide, and commonly asked questions surrounding suicide. The CMHA member who replied back to me was kind and compassionate and provided more avenues of support than I ever could have imagined.   

                                                                                                                                                        I started the online Grief and Bereavement group with an interview by one of the facilitators to make sure that I was a good fit. It’s really not about them judging you, it’s about making sure you understand what the program has to offer and then deciding if it’s right for you or not. I completed the interview which took about an hour and included one other person who was also considering joining the group. At the end of the call those people at that moment became my people, they were so understanding, compassionate, and empathetic. In my very first session, I showed up and introduced myself and you could tell that everyone was a bit uncomfortable, you’re the most vulnerable, you are going to be in a chat room full of strangers. The program is so well laid out and so well-articulated that within probably 20 minutes I was convinced this was the place where my healing journey would begin. It’s a guideline that you don’t talk about the specifics of how someone passed away. It’s to ensure that triggers are avoided but the discussions are around feeling, emotions, and coping strategies for moving back into life after suicide.   

                                                                                                                                                        CMHA lays the program out in three different modules so you can pick and choose what you want to learn about or what you’re ready to learn about. Some of it you’re not ready to hear and they always preface the discussion with ‘this is what we’re talking about if this is hard for you don’t have to. Beliefs and Values were where my group started, and we eased into heavier topics from there. You don’t have to say anything, just be present and open to healing.  

                                                                                                                                                        It’s a very well put together program, very well thought out and articulated in the delivery. They have a second phase of the program once you complete your three modules; you have the option of a virtual drop in every second Thursday. Regardless of if you are planning on attending or not, if you’re on the list they’ll send you the link so you can choose to just drop in. Some people aren’t there yet, and I am one of those individuals. What the program taught me though was that it’s okay to progress or recess at your own rate. Grief is not linear, and it is not easy moving through the emotions. 

                                                                                                                                                        Some people need to check in and sit with their grief regularly and they still need to be acknowledged for where they’re at in their journey. I think that’s a really important piece because CMHA is acknowledging that you’re not better in three months but are still there to support you and provide you options for moving through the process.  

                                                                                                                                                        The program is concrete and consistent, which is what I needed when everything else in my life had changed forever. I know for me consistency came on Wednesday nights where I could get through the whole week and not fall apart knowing there was space for me on Wednesday nights to meet with my group and deal with my grief. You know at the end of the meeting you’re going to hang up the phone and you’re going to feel pretty terrible because regardless of how kind the people are, you just ripped a band-aid off a wound that is so incredibly deep.  

                                                                                                                                                        The CMHA have thought of everything. You give them an emergency contact before you can participate. They tell you if you have to leave the group for more than 10 minutes, they will call to personally check in and make sure that you are okay. The facilitators really work to provide a safe space for everyone.  

                                                                                                                                                        The Grief and Bereavement program doesn’t just give you tools but it provides you with this platform to continue on in your life. I feel like this program really taught us how to implement techniques, like how to really sit down and know if you’re in a good space, to know what it feels like to feel safe.  I never would have imagined that these random strangers would be people that to this day, a year and a half later, I still call when I feel like my grief is something I cannot handle alone. The program helps you establish relationships with people who are going through the very same things as you.  

                                                                                                                                                        The connections are truly what drives this program. For me, it was almost like a little bit of guilt every week. I didn’t want to miss a session because I knew ultimately it would help me heal but on the other hand, I didn’t want to do it at all, you’re never fully prepared for the emotions that come up.  

                                                                                                                                                        I thought losing my partner to drugs and addiction, the collapse of our marriage, and the loss of my lifelong best friend was the worst possible thing that could have happened until that day when I received the call. I didn’t realize that suicide was so different than other types of loss until weeks later when I came out of the haze of the crisis. The dynamic changes between your family and your friends, how people look at you, how they talk to you, what people say to you, the shame and the guilt and the question of “could I have done more” is always lingering.  

                                                                                                                                                        We don’t talk about grief; we don’t read articles about it, it’s easier to pretend it doesn’t happen.  But the truth is we’re all going to have to go through it. I still struggle with grief and the loss of the life I thought I was going to have. I struggle with the idea of addiction and all that surrounds it. Everything you know fundamentally and have grown your life on is completely gone.  

                                                                                                                                                        One message I would like to leave people with is know that there’s hope. Losing a loved one to suicide is one of life’s most painful experiences, but you’re not alone. There are people that can connect and understand you in this space that you’re in and help you move through the complexity of grief. 

                                                                                                                                                        Lorella Balombem 

                                                                                                                                                        Graeme Eigner was lost to suicide on December 25, 2019. Graeme was a welder, the kindest, most caring person who would do anything for anyone. He had a potty mouth and was often misunderstood by people.   

                                                                                                                                                        Graeme and I were together for 10 years. We got engaged, bought a house together and planned a destination wedding. He passed away five months before the wedding day. I made a promise to myself and him that I’m always going to talk about mental health and suicide. Not a lot of people do because of the stigma. They don’t talk about mental health and the effects it has and how it can ultimately end someone’s life. I lost Graeme to suicide on Christmas Day of 2019. It happened in our home, and I found him. I have had to deal with my own trauma plus my grief, because it was compounded. I don’t even know if there’s a word to describe the feeling. 

                                                                                                                                                        Two weeks after I lost Graeme, I was still in my fog of grief. Heavy, heavy grief. I knew that I needed some help. I knew that if I didn’t seek help for myself in the early stages that I possibly wouldn’t be here. I decided to reach out to support through work at Alberta Health Services (AHS).  

                                                                                                                                                        They sent me to a counselor, however when I met with her, I realized that I only had ten sessions, then it ends.  So, I knew that wouldn’t work for me. Ten sessions would never ever be able to help me with what I needed, but I went anyways. Two sessions in the counselor was very honest and told me that the compounded trauma and grief that I was dealing with, was beyond her scope. So, she recommended I seek other help. 

                                                                                                                                                        First off, it’s extremely expensive even with my coverage, it was still $150 per session. She sent me to Pilgrims Hospice Society, a nonprofit organization that deals with family grief in all different forms, for adults, kids, and the whole family. So, I went to Pilgrims Hospice, and I had my sessions with them. Their psychologists told me coming through them is great, but they believed that I would benefit way more from a group setting. She recommended me to Peris [facilitator with Life After Suicide Loss Program], sent Peris an e-mail and that’s how I became connected with the Canadian Mental Health Association.  

                                                                                                                                                        I went through the program with my own grief in the group setting and then after I finished that I knew within myself that I needed more. I couldn’t do short term it was not going to work for me, I knew I was going to derail at any minute, at any time. I needed that constant support. I started to go to the weekly sessions, at first, they were in person and then COVID hit. It was like, OK now what?  

                                                                                                                                                        The weekly program ended up being virtual after COVID started. It was so helpful because it gave me a platform to talk about what happened during the week and listen to other people. That was probably the most effective for me, just listening and learning how other people were dealing with their grief.  

                                                                                                                                                        I met people that were there 14 years after they lost their loved one. I think realizing that that it would be a never-ending struggle was helpful, but also it was sad. There are people that have good days, I have good days, I have good weeks and then it hits you again. So having that platform every week to listen, share or support was tremendous.  

                                                                                                                                                        I know what it is that CMHA is doing differently. They have such a structured program that it helped with my grieving steps, and it helped me to understand what to expect. Grieving came at any time with different emotions, it’s just all over the place. Knowing what to expect was so helpful. 

                                                                                                                                                        I went back to work sooner than I thought I would because I knew that I had that meeting for support. As much as my colleagues, my boss and everybody was supportive, people don’t know. They didn’t know what to say or how to say it. Or people just don’t talk about it. It was like you have to keep this secret all week about how you were feeling and then you get into this weekly session, that was your release.  

                                                                                                                                                        During our weekly session we all were struggling, we all had that weekly support and there wasn’t enough time for everybody to share within an hour how they were feeling. Knowing that there’s other people suffering, only someone that has been through it can understand that. Even though I’m struggling, someone else is too. 

                                                                                                                                                        I work shift work and I try very hard to attend my biweekly support groups because there were a few months that I stayed away, and I thought that’s OK I got this, I’m doing good. It feels good, but then something happens, and you realize you really need someone that understands. 

                                                                                                                                                        I can’t talk to my mom about it because my mom doesn’t understand. She and other people think and say you should get over it. It’s been almost three years and life has to go on. So, there’s that huge barrier. You can’t speak to just anyone and they will understand. That is why the support group after suicide loss is so extremely important.   

                                                                                                                                                        Even though I work with AHS, when I look for mental health support, I have a son that suffers with mental health challenges also, and when I look for support for him it is incredibly hard to access. The world suffers so much with mental health illnesses, resources are hard to find and they’re not affordable. Why? We have treatments for cancer, for diabetes and for hypertension. Yet, the mind is overlooked.  

                                                                                                                                                        We have to recognize mental health illnesses more. We must destigmatize it. We have to talk to our kids and bring support into schools because that’s where it starts. This is 2022 we have nurses going into schools to take care of kids, why can’t we have the same sort of support for mental wellness? When I hear Graeme’s family and his parents talk about the struggles he faced as a kid and how overlooked that was, it didn’t appear overnight.  We notice mental health challenges, but we brush them off and we tell our kids to suck it up. Society makes things difficult, anytime a man talks about his feelings he’s viewed as weak. He’s not allowed to feel. Graeme was one of those men. He was so ashamed of how he was feeling.  

                                                                                                                                                        Society as a whole needs to encourage young boys and men to talk about their feelings. Society needs to understand that mental health challenges are just like every other illness. It needs attention, it needs medication, and it needs rest. 

                                                                                                                                                         

                                                                                                                                                        Note: This is an excerpt from our December 2022 Community Matters, you can read the full publication here

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                                                                                                                                                        If you or someone you know needs supports:  

                                                                                                                                                        Suicide Support Resources: https://edmonton.cmha.ca/brochure/suicide-bereavement-resources/ 

                                                                                                                                                        Visit the Canadian Mental Health Association Website for additional resources 

                                                                                                                                                         

                                                                                                                                                        If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call 9-11.  

                                                                                                                                                        If you or someone you know is in distress: 

                                                                                                                                                        • Call the Distress Line at 780-482-HELP (4357) 
                                                                                                                                                        • AHS Mental Health Help Line 1-877-303-2642 
                                                                                                                                                        • Talk Suicide Canada 1-833-456-4566 
                                                                                                                                                        • Kids Help Phone-1-800-668-6868 
                                                                                                                                                        • Indigenous Hope Line 1-855-242-3310 
                                                                                                                                                        • National Trans Help Line 1-877-330-6366 
                                                                                                                                                        • 211 Alberta: find programs and services in your community. 

                                                                                                                                                        For more information on programs and resources about suicide: 

                                                                                                                                                        Alberta Health Services Suicide Prevention 

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