Edmonton Social Planning Council

Category: **Resources: Social Issues:

  • CM: Beyond Gym Class: Physical Literacy’s Role in Lifelong Health

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    By Carrie Cyre, ESPC Volunteer

     

    The United Nations defines literacy as an essential life skill that enables individuals to fully address the challenges of the 21st century (PHE Canada, 2023). Literacy enables greater participation in the labour market, supports sustainable development, improves health and nutrition, and reduces poverty (UNESCO, 2022). Physical literacy is a type of literacy associated with health and body knowledge, movement and activity. Many nations, including Canada, have started including physical literacy messaging to help reduce the burden of chronic health conditions and improve overall health. 

    What Exactly Is Physical Literacy?  

    Physical literacy is a nuanced and holistic concept. Whereas physical activity is “any bodily movement produced by the skeletal muscles that require energy” (PHE Canada, 2023), physical literacy is concerned with a complete version of physical attributes, knowledge, attitudes and behaviours (UN, 2023). Margaret Whitehead, an educator and scholar of physical literacy, provides the gold standard definition:  

    “[Physical literacy is] the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding to value and take responsibility for engagement in physical activities for life.” (2001). 

    Many models of physical literacy exist, however, physical literacy is typically comprised of three key parts: 

    Affective – Individual attitude and motivation associated with physical activity. This aspect of physical literacy focuses on self-esteem and confidence. Examples include ensuring all participants are given equal play time in team sports, encouraging the development of new skills, and building a positive relationship with activity and movement (Curry, 2020). Several studies have shown that individuals with higher self-esteem are more inclined to engage fully in physical activities than those with lower self-esteem (Edwards et al., 2016). The win-lose dichotomy in many sports is de-emphasized in favour of personal bests, participation, and team building. 

    Cognitive and Behavioral – Basic physical literacy knowledge and understanding of how to apply it during any activity. This includes learning the rules and traditions of individual and team sports, but also body awareness (Edwards et al., 2016). Cognitive includes the knowledge and application of knowledge about the role of exercise in a healthy life. Behavioural changes, such as life-long participation in sports and activities will ensure optimal health through aging (Curry, 2020). This core tenet includes ‘‘valu[ing] and tak[ing] responsibility for maintaining purposeful physical pursuits/ activities throughout the life course’’ (Edwards et al., 2016). 

    Physical – The physical skills and competencies needed for a healthy life. In the physical domain are competencies such as movement capacities, motor skill competence, physical competence, fundamental movement skills and purposeful physical pursuits (Edwards et al., 2016). Physical competence is defined as one’s ability to move with capability in a wide variety of activities, both within a sport but also in daily life (Mandigo et al., 2009). These skills include movement capabilities such as balance, coordination, dexterity, and hand-eye coordination, catching, throwing, running and jumping (Bolger et al., 2018).  

    Holistic and Life-long  

    These three categories embody a well-rounded approach to physical activity that balances knowledge with physical movement and activity. Physical and Health Education Canada states that physically literate individuals can move confidently in various physical activities (2022). Finally, physical literacy is meant to be a life-long journey for people of all ages. You are never too young or too old to improve your physical literacy.  

    Conclusion 

    Physical literacy is a relatively new concept in physical education, but it has shown promise in improving the health outcomes of Canadians. In addition, there is potential for physical literacy to change some people’s relationships with physical activity and open up inclusive spaces where all persons feel they can improve how they feel about physical activity in a way that works for their bodies.  

    Physical literacy is associated with better physical and mental health outcomes. For example, several studies have linked physical literacy with reduced diabetes, and overweight and obesity in children (Nyström et al., 2018). Further research indicates that children with high physical literacy have better self-esteem, higher test scores and more stable moods (Jefferies et al., 2019). The skills associated with physical literacy also enable individuals to make beneficial and respectful choices for themselves, others, and their environment (PHE Canada, 2022). The benefits reaped from physical literacy, similar to other kinds of literacy, should be considered through the lens of personal and social responsibility (Mandigo et al., 2009). 

    It sounds like a win-win for everyone!  

     

    To Learn More:  

    Physical Literacy Canada is an excellent resource for everyone, from individuals looking to improve their physical literacy to educators, coaches and teachers interested in promoting physical literacy in students and athletes. https://phecanada.ca/activate/physical-literacy 

    If you are interested in Alberta-specific resources, see the Active For Life website:  https://activeforlife.com/jointhemovement-alberta/ or the Active For Life Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/activeforlifecom/ 

    If you are an educator, academic or interested in physical literacy research, see the position paper for educators here: https://phecanada.ca/sites/default/files/content/docs/resources/pl_position_paper.pdf. 

     

    Note: This is an excerpt from our March 2023 Community Matters, you can read the full publication here

    Did You Enjoy this Article? Please provide feedback here: Microsoft Forms 

    Carrie-Anne Cyre, MPH, is passionate about eliminating food security and poverty in our local communities. Her background in research coordination, humanities, mathematics and knowledge of scientific processes makes her a strong addition to any research team. When she’s not helping teams knock out award-winning research, Carrie-Anne loves to volunteer, travel, read books and enjoy the outdoors. Carrie-Anne is a lifelong learner, terrible surfer, and lover of all animals and nature. Carrie is a volunteer with Edmonton Social Planning Council.  

     

    References 

    Bolger, L. E., Bolger, L. A., O’ Neill, C., Coughlan, E., O’Brien, W., Lacey, S., & Burns, C. (2018). Age and Sex Differences in Fundamental Movement Skills Among a Cohort of Irish School Children, Journal of Motor Learning and Development, 6(1), 81-100. https://journals.humankinetics.com/view/journals/jmld/6/1/article-p81.xml 

    Curry, E. (2020). Physical Literacy: Why Is It Important And How Can You Develop it? https://www.scienceforsport.com/physical-literacy-why-is-it-important-and-how-can-you-improve-it/ 

    Edwards, L.C., Bryant, A.S.,  Keegan, R.J., Morgan, K. & Jones, A.M. (2016). Definitions, Foundations and Associations of Physical Literacy: A Systematic Review. Sports Medicine, 17,113–126. https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s40279-016-0560-7.pdf 

    Jefferies, P., Ungar, M., Aubertin, P., & Kriellaars, D. (2019). Physical Literacy and Resilience in Children and Youth. Frontiers in Public Health, 7, 346. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2019.00346 

    Nyström, C., Traversy, G., Barnes, J. D., Chaput, J. P., Longmuir, P. E., & Tremblay, M. S. (2018). Associations between domains of physical literacy by weight status in 8- to 12-year-old Canadian children. BMC public health, 18 (2), 1043. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-018-5898-3 

    PHE Canada (2022). Physical Literacy. https://phecanada.ca/activate/physical-literacy 

    Mandigo, J.,Francis, Lodewyk, K., & Lopez, R. (2009). Position Paper Physical Literacy for Educators. https://phecanada.ca/sites/default/files/content/docs/resources/pl_position_paper.pdf 

    UNESCO (2022). Literacy Statement. https://www.unesco.org/en/literacy 

    Whitehead, M. (2001). The Concept of Physical Literacy, European Journal of Physical Education, 6(2), 127–138, https://doi.org/10.1080/1740898010060205 

     

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    1. Blog: Need for Literacy in Most Jobs

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      Literacy fosters lifelong learning and enhances skills and abilities amongst. It is critical to recognize and understand the advantages of literacy as well as the disadvantages that people may encounter as a result of not having had the opportunity to increase their literacy abilities, and in some cases, due to their life circumstances.

      By Ankur Subedi, ESPC Volunteer

       

      UNESCO defines literacy as the ability to recognize, comprehend, interpret, produce, communicate, and compute utilizing printed and written materials connected to a variety of contexts. It entails a learning continuum that enables individuals to achieve their goals, develop their knowledge and potential, and continue to participate in their community and wider society (UNESCO UIS, 2022).

      The Government of Canada has defined a set of “Skills for Success” that acts as the cornerstone for all other skills and allow individuals to develop and adapt to change at work, in the community, and at home (ABC Life Literacy Canada, 2021). Every employer uses the “Skills for Success” to variable degrees and to jobs of increasing complexity (ABC Life Literacy Canada, 2021). People with strong literacy abilities earn significantly more money and have far greater employment rates than those with low literacy skills (ABC Life Literacy Canada, 2021). Literacy skills enable employees to work more precisely and efficiently, resulting in improved work quality, service, and productivity gains. Employees understand instructions, cautionary labels, and procedures better when they have the capacity to comprehend complex communication (ABC Life Literacy Canada, 2021).

      It is reported that employers in Canada spent $889 on learning and development on average per employee in 2016–17, an increase of $89 per employee from 2014–15 (ABC Life Literacy Canada, 2023). The typical amount of learning time spent by an employee annually is likewise rising, going from 25 hours in 2010 to 32 hours in 2016–17 (ABC Life Literacy Canada, 2023). Even small investments in workplace literacy and essential skills training have been reported to result in significant improvements in workers’ skills and job performance, as well as increases in employment, revenues, work performance, productivity, and cost savings due to reduced errors and waste (ABC Life Literacy Canada, 2023). Workers who received essential skills training were nearly 25% more likely than those who did not, to report a reduction in work-related stress (ABC Life Literacy Canada, 2023).

      While there are a lot of strengths that people with strong literacy skills possess, it is also important to recognize that people who might not have the strongest literacy skills also bring in their own unique sets of skills and strengths. In today’s world, one’s intelligence and success are measured by their educational credentials and literacy skills. On the contrary, those who are underprivileged with the least ideal living conditions may not be able to afford to pursue degrees and literacy skills from reputed educational institutions. From a strength-based perspective, their living conditions often make them highly resilient and enriched with major life skills in today’s ever-changing world with the ability to survive with limited means and adapt to challenging realities of life and still discover joy with an inner strength and ability to compromise (Chakraborty, 2019). Other valuable skills such as being resourceful and goal-oriented, and handling stress also cannot be underestimated (Chakraborty, 2019).

      As crucial as it is to acknowledge the capabilities and strengths of those with low literacy levels, it is also a reality that they have difficulties securing and maintaining employment due to the literacy and education requirements. The sense of personal shame that often comes with being unable to read and write in a society where literacy is taken for granted is one of the most agonizing consequences of illiteracy (Alden, 1982). A lack of basic education and poverty is a major barrier that prevents adults from achieving adequate employment and income (Alden, 1982). Even while working full-time, adults with low levels of literacy are nearly ten times more likely to require public assistance and make, on average, only $300 per week (Garcia, 2017). Furthermore, only 27% of these people have a high school diploma or GED, and 64% have never used a computer (Garcia, 2017). People who have not completed high school are less likely to be hired, which results in prolonged durations of unemployment (Garcia, 2017). Individuals with low levels of literacy are often associated with reduced employment prospects, poor employment outcomes, and lower income, so they frequently require social assistance programs and experience low self-esteem (Miranda, 2021). Low levels of literacy can limit a person’s ability to make significant, well-informed decisions in daily life because they may find it difficult to complete tasks like filling out applications and forms, comprehending governmental regulations, reading labels for food or medicine, and other similar tasks (Miranda, 2021).

      Literacy development is beyond the functional level and is critical in transforming us into socially involved citizens. Promoting literacy starts with us, in our families, neighborhoods, and communities to establish a culture that supports it. Within the Edmonton vicinity, there are social organizations such as the Centre for Family Literacy, Project Adult Literacy Society, The Learning Centre Literacy Association, and the Connect Society. They offer free coaching and tutoring to adult learners who seek to enhance their fundamental literacy abilities (reading, writing, comprehension, arithmetic, English language, and computer skills), and other literacy promotional activities for adults as well as children.

       

      Ankur Subedi is a Registered Social Worker (RSW), currently advancing her education in the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) at the University of Calgary. Having completed the Social Work Diploma from Norquest College, Ankur comes with a diverse background in community involvement. Ankur is passionate about working in social services and working with vulnerable populations to help them achieve their best possible levels of mental, social, and physical well-being. Ankur is a volunteer with ESPC.

       

      References

      ABC Life Literacy Canada. (2023, January 9). What is workplace literacy? Retrieved from https://abclifeliteracy.ca/workplace-literacy/

      ABC Life Literacy Canada. (2021, September 21). Why businesses should invest in employee skills training. Retrieved from https://abclifeliteracy.ca/blog-posts/workplace-literacy-blog-posts/why-businesses-should-invest-in-employee-skills-training/#:~:text=Literacy%20skills%20help%20employees%20work,%2C%20warning%20labels%2C%20and%20procedures

      Alden, H. (1982). Illiteracy and poverty – from the introduction of “illiteracy and poverty in Canada: Toward a critical perspective”. Retrieved from http://www.en.copian.ca/library/research/illitpov/illitpov.htm

      Chakraborty, G. (2019, May 24). 8 lessons that poverty teaches you. Orowealth Blog. Retrieved from https://www.orowealth.com/insights/blog/8-lessons-that-poverty-teaches-you/#:~:text=Poverty%20teaches%20you%20to%20survive,effort%20in%20more%20meaningful%20things

      Focus and Read. (2020, October 30). Quick Guide: How to Effectively Promote Literacy. Retrieved from https://focusandread.com/quick-guide-how-to-effectively-promote-literacy

      Garcia, V. (2017, July 25). The problem with illiteracy and how it affects all of Us. Reading Partners. Retrieved from https://readingpartners.org/blog/problem-illiteracy-affects-us/

      Miranda, N. (2021, July 23). The impact of illiteracy and the importance of early intervention. World Literacy Foundation. Retrieved from https://worldliteracyfoundation.org/early-intervention-reduces-illiteracy/#:~:text=Individuals%20with%20low%20levels%20of,and%20higher%20levels%20of%20crime

      UNESCO UIS. (2022, September 15). Literacy. Retrieved from https://uis.unesco.org/node/3079547

       

       

       

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                                                                            1. Community Matters (March 2023) — Literacy: In Its Many Forms

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                                                                              Note: This is excerpted from the March 2023 edition of our Community Matters publication. 

                                                                              Welcome to the Spring Edition of our quarterly publication, Community Matters.

                                                                              Community Matters aims to inform the community about social issues that impact citizens and connect the dots between social issues, evidence, and policy. We aim to use this space to give a voice to local agencies, ESPC volunteer writers, and staff members alike.

                                                                              Each edition spotlights a specific social issue and demonstrates the intersectional nature and impacts on equality. Our goal is to use evidence and the voices of the people as we continue to inform on the issues affecting individuals, families and our community.

                                                                              For the current edition, we are focusing on literacy in all its forms. When it comes to the work around poverty reduction and elimination, just as food security, housing security, income security, and others are integral strategies, so too is literacy and the positive impact it has on alleviating poverty. There is great work happening in our community around literacy, but part of affecting change is continuing to keep the conversation going.

                                                                              Literacy in its many forms, impacts nearly all facets of our lives and this issue of Community Matters strives to touch upon some of the varying intersections that literacy takes. This includes articles on digital literacy, cultural literacy, health literacy, physical literacy, legal literacy, as well as policy literacy and impacts on the wider educational system. All of these provide illumination on the various ways in which literacy is so crucial to navigating our complex society and how it helps people thrive.

                                                                              Improving literacy rates for marginalized populations means you are more likely to find and keep a job, attain education (particularly higher education), and participate meaningfully in communities and, more broadly, in democracy. With improved literacy rates comes a more empowered, educated, and healthier society.

                                                                              In Canada, nearly half (49%) of the adult population struggles to some extent with literacy, and we must work towards closing this gap.

                                                                              We hope these articles bring about more attention to the ways in which attaining these different types of literacy helps to build a community in which all people are full and valued participants.

                                                                              -Susan Morrissey, Executive Director

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                                                                              COMMUNITY MATTERS – MARCH 2023

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                                                                            2. 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

                                                                                [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″]

                                                                                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

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                                                                                                                                                        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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