Healthy Minds Matter Newsletter and Brochure (pdf)

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Mental Health:It’s a State of Well being.2Mental health is a topic that’s often not openly talkedabout, but it needs to come “out of the shadows.” Mentalhealth and well-being are very important to your overallhealth. A person’s health is made up of their physical andmental health. It’s common for people to confuse the termsmental health and mental illness. Because of this, it’s importantto understand the more precise meaning of each of these terms,and how these states can impact your health.Mental health is a state of well-being. It’s not simply the absenceof mental illness, as is commonly thought, but rather a state offlourishing (Keyes, 2007). A person who is mentally healthy cancope with the normal stresses of life. They experience a full rangeof emotions and respond to those emotions. Mental illness canfeature different sets of symptoms that affect how we think, feel,and behave. A person who has a mental illness is unable to flourish,and often can’t meet life’s day-to-day demands.As people face various challenges and changes during theirlives, they may experience some changes in their mental healthcondition, which can be short-lived or more long-term and serious.It’s estimated that one in five Canadians, close to six million people,will develop a mental illness at some point in their lives. Mentalillness is estimated to cost the Canadian economy $51 billion dollarsa year, and each day 500 000 people miss work due to mental healthproblems (Lim, Jacobs, Ohinmaa, Schopflocher, & Dewa, 2008).“Mental illness is estimated to cost the Canadian economy $51 billion dollars a year, and each day 500 000 peoplemiss work due to mental health problems.”(Lim, Jacobs, Ohinmaa, Schopflocher, & Dewa, 2008).Lack of knowledge about positive mental health and the stigma heldtoward mental illness are two of the major barriers to having apopulation of mentally healthy people. Many people are notwell-informed about the importance of mental health to theiroverall health, nor how to find help for mental illness. Due to thestigma associated with mental illness, people often resist gettingprofessional help.The scope and impact of mental health issues (both positive andnegative) are beginning to be recognized. There is a growingawareness that poor mental health is a risk factor for chronicdiseases (PCPC-NTTMHP, 2009). If we promote mental health andwork to prevent mental illness, we’ll not only help lower rates ofmental illness, but also lower rates of chronic diseases, such as heartdisease and diabetes.People need to be informed about the benefits of positivemental health and well-being, and educated about mental illnessand where to get help. Positive mental health and well-being areassociated with better physical health, better relationships, andfewer missed days at work. The absence of mental illness allowspeople and communities to live happier and more productive lives(Keyes, 2007). This Healthy Minds Matter Newsletter may helpanswer some questions you may have about mental health andmental illness and how they impact your overall health. We shouldall do our part, as friends, family members, and co-workers, tosupport each other and promote mental health.Key References:Keyes, C. L. M. (2007). Towards a mentally flourishing society: Mental health promotion,not cure. Journal of Public Mental Health, 6(2), 4-7.Lim, K., Jacobs, P., Ohinmaa, A., Schopflocher, D., & Dewa C. S. (2008). A new population basedmeasure of the economic burden of mental illness in Canada. Chronic Diseases in Canada, 28(3), 92-98.The Pan-Canadian Planning Committee for the National Think Tank on Mental HealthPromotion [PCPC-NTTMHP]. (2009). Proceedings from Towards Flourishing for All:National Mental Health Promotion and Mental Illness Prevention Policy for Canadians.Calgary, AB.

Achieving PositiveMental HealthDid you know?A positive outlook affects our mental health.Research findings show that positivepsychological activities (e.g., talking aboutpositive experiences, writing thank-youletters, thinking positive thoughts) improvedthe well-being of participants. Further, theseactivities also helped treat depressivesymptoms (e.g., loss of interest in dailyactivities, trouble sleeping, feelings ofhelplessness) (Sin & Lyubomirsky, 2009).Mental health is more than just the absence of mental illness. Positivemental health includes the ability to enjoy life, deal with challenges,contribute to the community, and have a sense of purpose in life(Canadian Institute for Health Information, 2009). You play an activerole in achieving your own positive mental health.There are lots of things you can do to improve your mental health. Try some of thefollowing suggestions:• Make a list of things you’re good at. Pick one you haven’t done in a while and do it.• Volunteer your time. Find a cause you feel strongly about and get involved. Youmight be surprised by how good you’ll feel when you give back to other people.•Reconnect with a friend or family member you haven’t seen in awhile.• Make a list of things you want to try. Challenge yourself to try new things.• Find a group or team that interests you and get involved. You’ll get to participatein an activity you like, and create a new social group at the same time.Social Ties MatterSpending time with friends can be more than just a fun way to spend a day. Itcan also improve your mental health. One study found that people who reportedlow levels of social and emotional support had more days of poor health, as wellas symptoms of depression and anxiety (Strine et al., 2008). Feeling connected topeople is a great way to boost your positive mental health, so make an effort to gettogether with people you enjoy whenever possible.Key References:Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI). (2009). Improving the health of Canadians: Exploring positive mental health. Ottawa: CIHI.Sin, N. L., & Lyubomirsky, S. (2009). Enhancing well-being and alleviating depressive symptoms with positive psychology interventions: A practice-friendly meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 65(5), 467-487.Strine, T. W., Chapman, D. P., Ballus, L., & Mokdad, A. H. (2008). Health-related quality of life and health behaviors by social and emotional support. Social Psychiatry & Psychiatric Epidemiology, 43, 151-159.Talking aboutMental HealthBringing up the subject of mental healthmakes many people uncomfortable.However, if you think someone close toyou is suffering with a mental healthissue, talking to them about it might helpthem get the support they need.4Key Reference:Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. (2007). Stigma: Understanding the impact of prejudice and discriminationon people with mental health and substance use problems.Retrieved July 15, 2010, from http://www.camh.net/Care_Treatment/Resources_clients_families_friends/stigma_brochure.pdfIf you think someone you know has a mental health issue,the following tips may help you feel more relaxed abouttalking to them:•Be comfortable. Plan a face-to-face talk in a private setting toavoid embarrassing them. Choose a place where you are bothcomfortable and can stay for as long as needed.• Ask how they are. Asking how they‘re doing, and letting themknow you’ve noticed changes in their behaviour or personality, leavesthe topic open for them to discuss. If they aren’t open to talkingabout it, let them know you’re there to listen when and if they needyou.• Know the facts. Learn about mental health issues before bringingthem up. Research local support groups and resources that you canrecommend.• Be sensitive. Choose your words carefully and avoid using a negativetone of voice.The most important thing you can do is to let them know thatyou’re there for support. The simple act of showing that you careand being there to listen is a great way to help.

Healthy MindsMatter for Kids Too!Mental illness and stress are often considered adult problems, but they canalso affect children. In fact, one out of every five children in Canada has amental health problem (Barankin & Khanlou, 2007). Thankfully, there areways you can help your child deal with life’s ups and downs in a healthy way.What is Resiliency?Resiliency is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and stay strong during hardtimes. Building resiliency early in life is important, as it’s partly a learned behaviour.Resilient children are more likely to do well in school, are less prone to depression, andgo on to have happier, more successful lives as adults.Signs of Stress in KidsWhile some stress is normal, too much stress can be harmful and may lead to biggerproblems later on. Most caregivers can easily spot problem behaviours in theirchildren. Crying, whining, poor listening, fighting, falling grades at school, and eatingmore or less than normal are all behaviours that may result from stress. However, theirbodies, minds, and feelings can also signal that something is wrong, as explained below.BODYSome physical signs ofstress include: tensemuscles, headaches,stomach aches, bedwetting,being cold, skinrash, shakiness, poorsleep, constant tiredness,and generally feeling sick.MINDSome mental effects ofstress include: shortattention span,forgetfulness, troubleproblem-solving, beingeasily distracted,confusion, and beingunreasonable.FEELINGSSome emotions that may bebrought on by stress include:fear, anxiety, frustration,sadness, panic, anger,helplessness, hopelessness,and feeling threatened.Sources of Stress for Kids• Schedules that are too busy and don’t allow for enoughfree play and rest time.• Big changes such as starting school, moving to a newhome, separation or divorce, or the death of a loved one.• Social issues like being teased, bullied, or not “fitting in”with peers.• Fighting or arguing among family members.Key References:Barankin, T. & Khanlou, N. (2007) Growing up resilient: Ways to build resilience in childrenand youth. Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. ISBN 978-0-88868-504-9, pg. 11.The Psychology Foundation of Canada. (2007). The struggle to juggle: Stress managementstrategies for you and your family. Retrieved July 5, 2010, from http://www.psychologyfoundation.org/pdf/publications/the_struggle_to_juggle.pdfThe Psychology Foundation of Canada. (n.d.). Kids have stress too! How to help kids handlestress. Retrieved July 5, 2010, from http://www.psychologyfoundation.org/pdf/KHST_yellow2008.pdfBuilding Resiliency in Your Child: What You Can DoEven young children can learn to manage their own stress, with theircaregivers’ help. Here are some ways you can help build resiliency inyour child:• Spend time with your child, both with fun activities and chores. Givethem choices.• Show interest in your child’s life by asking questions about school,friends, and life in general – and really listen!• Model appropriate behaviour in your own relationships and avoidinvolving your child in adult issues.• Make sure your child gets enough rest, good nutrition, and physicalactivity.• Help build your child’s confidence by pointing out the things they’regood at.• Let your child know that you love them in as many ways as you can.While we can’t protect our children from all of life’s ups and downs, wecan raise them to be resilient. That way, when hardships come, they canwork through them in a healthy way.5

Health ScreeningsEverywhere!2010 Employee Appreciation Week –The City of Windsor Workplace Wellness Program and STARcommittees were busy this past November hosting the firstever health screening event during Employee AppreciationWeek (November 15-19). The health screenings were held atvarious City work sites which included City Hall 400 SquareEast, Crawford Yard, Huron Lodge, Parks and RecreationAdministration Building, Parks and Recreation MaintenanceYard Central, and the Public Works IMS and TransportationPlanning building.City employees had the opportunity to be screened for avariety of health issues. VON nurses were available for afinger prick test, to measure total blood cholesterol/sugar,and as well as an individual’s blood pressure. City ofWindsor Recreation and Culture fitness instructors were onhand to measure an employee’s Body Mass Index (BMI)/waist circumference and to answer any physical activityquestions that individuals might have. At each of thesescreening stations, fact sheets were given to each employee tohelp explain what their result screening numbers meant, andhow to reach and keep them within a healthy range.In addition to these health screenings, The Windsor EssexCounty Health Unit was present with resources to promoteand answer any questions for the W.E. Can Quit SmokingCessation Program. Employees also had the opportunity todo a carbon monoxide test to see the potential side effectssmoking has on an individual’s respiratory system.6The event was a huge success as 315 staff were screenedduring the week. Our participation numbers were soamazing that there was a 87% participation rate based on thenumber of people we could actually screen during the event.Way to go everyone! Many staff commented that they likedthe convenience of a work place screening and would like tosee this as an annual event. Thanks to everyone whovolunteered their time and helped with the promotion of theevent. Another great job and successful event for wellness!“there was a 87%participation ratebased on the numberof people we couldactually screenduring the event.”

Windsor Workplace WellnessProgram Faces Off AgainstCOPD with Ron EllisOn November 9th, 2010, Hockey Legend Ron Ellis visited the WFCUCentre to speak with City employees, retirees and family membersabout the importance of Cardio Obstructive Pulmonary Disease(COPD). COPD is a chronic respiratory disease that causes lungdisease and can block the airways. It is considered the fourth leading cause ofdeath in Canada and is also a problem as many Canadians are unaware of thedisease. (CTS, 2007).Ron Ellis spoke on the importance of understanding the seriousness of the effectsof COPD on an individual and the importance of early screening and detection.Ron also touched on his career and shared some funny stories from his daysplaying professional hockey. He played 16 seasons in the NHL with theToronto Maple Leafs winning a Stanley Cup with them in 1967. He wasalso a member of Team Canada in the 1972 Summit Series and iscurrently the director of public affairs for the Hockey Hall of Fame.Representatives from the Ontario Lung Association also spoke inmore detail about COPD and offered a lung function screening testto anyone who wanted one. The Windsor Essex County Health Unitwas also on hand to promote the W.E. Can Quit Smoking CessationProgram that is currently being offered to City employees, retireesand family members. At the end of the session everyone whoattended had a chance to get their picture taken with Ron and anautograph. Door prizes included a signed Toronto Maple Leafjersey and hockey stick from Ron.This free event was sponsored and organized by the OntarioLung Association, Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd., andPfizer Canada, working in partnership with the City ofWindsor Workplace Wellness Program. A big thank you toChief Administrative Officer Helga Reidel for introducing Ronto the audience.

Gastrointestinal(GI) HealthInformation and Screening DayThe City of Windsor Workplace Wellness Program Committee was busy this fallhosting a number of health screenings for City employees. To kick things off, theWorking Committee along with Green Shield Canada ran a Gastrointestinal (GI)Health Information and Screening Day on October 30, at the WFCU Centre.City employees, retirees, and family members who are on GI medication(s) orare having signs and symptoms related to GI problems, were invited to attend thehealth information and screening day. Participants had the choice to attend oneof two sessions on the Saturday morning to hear Dr. Earle P. Morgan,Gastroenterologist, speak on the issue. Dr. Morgan spoke about identifying,treating, and managing your GI health. He also took the time to speak to anyonewho had questions about their GI health problems.As part of the screening sessions, participants were invited to speak to localpharmacists to have their GI medications reviewed for them. Registered nurseswere also on hand to do a simple finger prick test to screen for the presence ofthe H. pylori antibody. A follow-up with a participant’s health care provider wasrecommended for anyone that tested positive for the antibody. The H. pyloribacteria (Helicobacter pylori) can live in the highly acidic areas of the stomachand small intestine (upper portion). It is known to be a direct cause in about70-90% of peptic ulcers and can affect anywhere between 5-15% of Canadians.Blood pressure was also being checked at the same time.Dr. Earl P. Morgan answers questions fromparticipants.City of Windsor Recreation and Culture FitnessInstructors take time out to pose for the camera.In addition, participants could have their Body Mass Index (BMI) and theirwaist circumference measured by a City of Windsor Recreation and Culturestaff fitness instructor. Registered dietitians from the Windsor Essex CountyHealth Unit (WECHU) were on hand to answer any questions about special GIdiet plans and provide suggestions on healthy food alternatives that could helpto reduce any GI discomfort. Free samples of different snacks were prepared forparticipants to try along with a copy of the recipe.8The day was a great success as over 50 participants attended the event. It wasalso the first event that the City of Windsor Workplace Wellness Program hostedthat included retirees and family members. Many of the participants commentedthat the event was very informative and enjoyed the one-on-one treatment theyreceived along with the free healthy and tasty refreshments!A big thank-you to our wellness partner Green Shield Canada, for helping withthe invitations and the organization of the event. As well, thank you to theWorkplace Wellness Program Steering and Working Committee members thatvolunteered, the Department of Recreation and Culture, VON Nursing services,Dr. Earle P. Morgan and the Windsor Essex County Health Unit.Great job everyone!Participants were all smiles when it came to thefree refreshments.WECHU Registered Dietitians showcasingfree samples of healthy snacks.

WelcomeWellness Champions!The Windsor Workplace Wellness Program Steering and Working Committees would like to officially introduce andwelcome our Wellness Champions to all City employees. The Wellness Champions are responsible for working closely withthe Wellness Program Working Committee to ensure that the program is carried out smoothly at each Wellness Hub. TheWellness Hubs were created due to the large number of City of Windsor worksites throughout the City and County. WellnessHubs are locations where wellness information will be displayed and distributed, and where special events may be held.The role of the Wellness Champion is keyto the success of our wellness program andincludes the following:• Provide feedback from employees, retirees and family membersabout ways to improve the overall program and how to increaseparticipation and usefulness of special events, contests, andeducational presentations/resources.• Assist in the promotion, planning and delivery of City ofWindsor Wellness Program contests, special events, andeducational presentations/resources.The following is a list of Wellness Champions.Please feel free to contact anyone of them whoare in your respective area for questions,feedback, or comments about the WellnessProgram. If you have any questions about theWellness Champion position please contactDomenic Marsella, Claims Administrator,Human Resources at 519 -255-6515 ext. 6817or email: dmarsella@city.windsor.on.ca.• Update the Wellness Resource Centre in their Wellness Hub.• Assist in tracking Wellness Resource Centre usage,participation in contests, special events, andeducational presentations.Christine DigesuJanet Colvin-SharpeJennifer LeitzingerJill KanwischerJodi WoodJohn MurphyKelly StuartLinda MooreLori BostonLouise St. JacquesLynne WillsMike GrondinNatalie PopovicPeggy CalleryRobert PappRosie D’AlessandroSonia BajajHousing and Children’s ServicesRecreation and Culture DepartmentEngineering DepartmentFire & Rescue ServicesRecreation and Culture DepartmentLou Romano/Little River Pollution ControlCouncil Services DepartmentEmployment & Social Services DepartmentEmployment & Social Services DepartmentEmployment & Social Services DepartmentHuron LodgeEmployment & Social Services Department (Leamington)Parks and Facilities DepartmentRecreation and Culture DepartmentCrawford YardHuman Resources DepartmentFinancial Planning Department9

tressedStress is our body’s response to theis a natural part of our lives.changing environment and the eventswe experience in our lives. If you feelstressed out, you’re not alone. In fact,28% of Canadian adults between theages of 34 and 54 reported beingstressed daily (Statistics Canada,2008). The good news is stress can bemanaged. It’s important to understandyour stressors so you can be betterprepared to deal with them.ut?StressStressorsMany life events can cause feelings of stress. These events are knownas stressors. Stressors can be major or minor. Events such as job loss,getting married, moving to a new school, and losing a loved one are majorstressors. On the other hand, being stuck in traffic, having an argumentwith a family member, missing work deadlines, and running late to anappointment are minor stressors.Good Stress (Eustress) andBad Stress (Distress)Some stress is actually good for us. Eustress is the positive stress that keepsus on our toes and motivates us to achieve a certain goal. This type of stresscan be managed because we feel in control of the situation. For example,a little bit of stress from your boss may drive you to work harder to meeta deadline. Likewise, feeling a small amount of stress over an upcomingexam may motivate you to study harder and achieve a higher grade.On the other hand, some stressors can be negative. Distress is causedby stressors that bring about negative feelings such as anger,frustration, and sadness. For example, getting a speeding ticket may causedistress because you may feel upset and angry.Stress can be acute (i.e., short-term) or chronic (i.e., long-term). Acutestress is our body’s response to an unexpected, immediate event(e.g., a near miss at a traffic light). This type of stress is short induration and passes fairly quickly. Chronic stress is long-lastingbecause we have to deal with the same stressor on an ongoing basis(e.g., caring for a high needs parent or child). Chronic stress is worsefor your overall health than acute stress. It increases your risk ofdeveloping chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease (ThePsychology Foundation of Canada, 2009).It’s important to know what type of stress we’re experiencing so wecan develop a plan to manage it.Managing StressThere are three different methods that most of us use to dealwith stress. Depending on the issue, we may use one, two, orall three methods to manage a particular stressor. The threedifferent coping methods are listed to the right.Task-oriented: the individual focuses on the situation, and dealswith it in a positive way. For example, they may work with a banker orfinancial consultant to deal with overdue bills and money problems.10

About 30% of working Canadiansconsider finances to be their biggestsource of stress (The Psychology Foundation of Canada, 2009).Emotion-oriented: the individual focuses on their feelingsand tries to find social support to deal with the situation they’refacing. For example, they may ask their friends and family forsupport if they are having trouble dealing with a failingrelationship.Distraction-oriented: the individual tries to avoid thesituation by taking their mind off the problem. In other words,out of sight, out of mind. For example, the individual might goshopping to avoid a stressful situation at home.It’s important to keep in mind that the method or methods weuse to deal with stress depend on the situation we are facedwith. Also, different methods of managing stress are effectivefor different people.Tips to Reduce StressBelow are just a few tips that can help you reduce yourstress level:• Be physically active.• Eat a healthy diet.• Set realistic goals.• Don’t overcommit your time or money.• Do something you love (e.g., a hobby).• Spend time with friends and family.• Make time for yourself.• Ask for help.When Stress is Taking OverIf you’re feeling stressed and can’t manage it yourself, there are manyresources that can help. Talk to your health care provider about theservices available in your community. You can also contact yourhuman resources contact or union representative for help in accessing theemployee supports available at your workplace.Key References:Ben-Zur, H. (2009). Coping styles and affect. International Journal of Stress Management, 16(2), 87-101.Canadian Mental Health Association & Heart & Stroke Foundation. (2009). Coping with stress. RetrievedJune 14, 2010, from http://www.heartandstroke.com/atf/cf/%7B99452D8B-E7F1-4BD6-A57D-B136CE6C95BF%7D/coping-with-stress-en.pdfThe Psychology Foundation of Canada. (2009). Managing to manage workplace stress. Retrieved June 17, 2010,from http://www.psychologyfoundation.org/pdf/publications/managing_to_manage.pdfMcLaughlin, K. A. & Hatzenbuehler, M. L. (2009). Stressful life events, anxiety, sensitivity, and internalizingsymptoms in adolescents. Journal of Abnormal Psychology, 118(3), 659-669.Statistics Canada. (2008). Perceived life stress. Retrieved June 21, 2010, from http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/82-625-x/2010001/article/11108-eng.htm11

MindGamesC O N T E S TDoing logic puzzles like Sudoku can help sharpen yourmind and keep your brain active and healthy.Deadline:June 30,2011PARTICIPATE & WINPARTONEFirst, read the Healthy Minds Matter Health IssuesMagazine to learn more about mental health. Then,using the numbers listed below, fill in the blank withthe correct number to complete the sentence.1. One in every ___ Canadians will have a mentalhealth problem at some point in their lives.Once you have completed the Mind Games Contest sendit through inter-office mail to Renee Rucculo (StaffDevelopment Coordinator - 519-255-6515 ext. 6207) for achance to win one of four $50 gift cards to Zehrs orDevonshire Mall.Human Resources Department171 Goyeau AvenuePARTTWOSolve the Sudoku puzzle below. To learn how toplay, read the game rules below.Sudoku Puzzle2. ___% of Canadian adults between the agesof 34 and 54 reported being stressed daily.3. Adults who have higher levels of anger havea ___% greater chance of developing coronaryheart disease than those who don’t.4. About ___% of Canadians with a mental healthillness will develop an addiction.5. Mental health illness is estimated to cost theCanadian economy ___ billion dollars a year.Numbers to use in Part 1:28 5 30 51 31Name:________________________________Email:_________________________________Phone:________________________________Dept.__________________________________Sudoku Rules:Complete the puzzle by entering a number from 1 to 9 in each cell, in such a way that:- Each horizontal row contains each number exactly once.- Each vertical column contains each number exactly once.- Each subgrid or region contains each number exactly once.

Funding expands recreationfacilities in communityThree neighbourhoods, three new amenitiesand hundreds of new recreation options arenow available in Windsor as a result offunding provided by the Government ofCanada, the Province of Ontario and theCity of Windsor.Therapy pool expands aquatic exercise programsAdie Knox Herman Recreation Complex, 1551 Wyandotte St. W.now offers aquatic rehabilitation programs in its new therapy pool.The pool heated to 38°C, is open for daily exercises and specializedprogramming.“Research has shown that people with hip, knee and back problemsrespond very well to water exercises,” explained Jan Wilson,Executive Director of Recreation and Culture. The new therapypool is open for individual and group exercise and can be bookedfor physiotherapist appointments.The renovations include a new reception area and administrationoffices, a family change room and improvements to the domestic hotwater system and showers.New gym offers expanded options for league sportsConstable John Atkinson Memorial Community Centre, 4270 AliceStreet, features an NBA-size gym with wooden floors, ideal for leaguesports. University of Windsor Lancers Women’s Basketball Team,ranked #2 in the nation, hosted a community basketball clinic inearly February to introduce the facility to the neighbourhood. Youthfrom 8 years old learned dribbling, shooting and other basketballskills.The gym at Atkinson Memorial Community Centre is available fordaytime and evening rentals. For more information, please call519-945-2452.Ojibway Nature Centre gets a new lookOjibway Nature Centre, 5200 Matchette Rd., is the hub for localnaturalists, birders, and students exploring the prairie. The new8,000 square foot Ojibway Nature Centre opens with newclassrooms, more display space and a welcoming gathering roomwith fireplace. Designed by NORR Architects Engineers andPlanners, the building design incorporates energy efficiency andaccessibility. Ojibway Park and Nature Centre welcomesapproximately 100,000 visitors per year. There are 621 protected acresin Ojibway Prairie Complex with 9,200 metres of maintained trails.The centre is open year round with ongoing educational programs foradults, youth and pre-schoolersThe new centre is a LEED gold candidate. LEED is theinternationally recognized green building certification system,providing verification that a building was designed and built usingstrategies to improve energy savings, water efficiency, and CO2emissions. The certification reflects stewardship of resources andsensitivity to their impacts.New therapy pool now open at Adie Knox HermanRecreation Complex.Experience playing basketball on a NBA - sized gym at Constable JohnAtkinson Memorial Complex Centre.Visit the new 8000sq ft. Ojibway Nature Centre with more display space.

WHyis it Important to PreventConcurrent Disorders?Preventing a concurrent disorderfrom developing is importantbecause it affects a person’s qualityof life. A person with a concurrentdisorder often has more hardshipsthan if they only had one conditionor no condition at all.Are at greater risk ofdeveloping other healthproblems than a personwith a mental illness or anaddiction alone.Are more likely tocommit suicide. Between15% to 25% of peoplewho commit suicide havea concurrent disorder(e.g., depression and analcohol addiction).People with concurrent disorders:Experience higher ratesof homelessness. About19.5% of people whoare homeless have aconcurrent disorder.Experience higher rates ofinvolvement in the criminaljustice system. Between2.2% to 11.5% of peoplewho are in jail have aconcurrent disorder.(U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2002).WHATcan be done to PreventConcurrent Disorders?Being a resilient person and achieving positive mentalhealth can help prevent a concurrent disorder from developing.Resiliency is the ability to effectively cope with, and bounce back from toughsituations (e.g., the loss of a job, the death of a loved one).Here are some tips to help you become a moreresilient person:• Learn from your mistakes. Try to view setbacksas opportunities to move forward and to learnsomething new about yourself.• Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses. Setrealistic goals for yourself.• Be flexible. When things don’t go your way, be opento trying a new direction or approach.• Have a positive outlook. Try to see the good, even ina tough situation.Here are some tips to help you improve yourmental health:• Create and maintain strong supportiverelationships.• Work at a job that satisfies you and providesyou with enough money.• Find a group or team that interests you andget involved.• Be physically active every day.• Eat well and get enough rest.Positive mental health isthe ability to enjoy life,deal with challenges, andcontribute to the community.Have a positive outlook.

T FT FT FT FT FT FTRUEFALSE1. A person may develop aconcurrent disorder as adirect or indirect result ofan addiction.2. The ideal treatmentsetting for a person witha mild addiction and amild mental illness is themental health system.3. Aversive medicationsreduce drug cravings.4. A change in a person’ssleep pattern is an earlywarning sign for a mentalillness, but not for anaddiction.5. A person can buildresiliency by learningfrom their mistakes.6. People who haveconcurrent disordersexperience higher rates ofhomelessness.EarlyIDENTIFICATIONThe time between the onset of an addiction in a person with a mental illness (or viceversa) is the time when a concurrent disorder may be prevented. To achieve this, themental illness or addiction needs to be identified and treated quickly and effectively.Some early warning signs of a mental illness include:• Trouble experiencing emotions other than anger, sadness, guilt, worthlessness, or hopelessness.• Rapid or dramatic shifts in feelings or mood swings.• Changes in sleep patterns, appetite, or sex drive.• Loss of interest in going out with friends or family members, or in favourite events or activities.Some early warning signs of an addiction include:• Rapid or dramatic shifts in feelings or mood swings.• Taking part in high-risk behaviours (e.g., drinking and driving, having unprotected sex, stealing).• Relationship issues (e.g., fighting, secret keeping, distancing) with friends, family, and co-workers.• Changes in sleep patterns, appetite, and body weight.There isn’t a list of early warning signs that arecommon to all concurrent disorder combinations.Answers1. T, 2. F, 3. F, 4. F, 5. T, 6. THere are somesuggestions to helpyour workplaceunderstand and copewith concurrentdisorders:Key ReferencesCentre for Addiction and Mental Health. (2004). Concurrent substance use and mentalhealth disorders. Retrieved June 30, 2010, from http://www.camh.net/About_Addiction_Mental_Health/Concurrent_Disorders/Concurrent_Disorders_Information_Guide/concurrent_disorders_info_guide.pdfCentre for Addiction and Mental Health. (2009). Mental health and addiction 101: Concurrentdisorders. Retrieved June 30, 2010, from http://www.camh.net/education/online_courses_webinars/mha101/concurrentdisorders/Concurrent_Disorders_.htmU. S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2002). Report to congress on the preventionand treatment of co-occurring substance abuse disorders and mental disorders. RetrievedAugust 3, 2010, from http://www.samhsa.gov/reports/congress2002/index.htmlMake it Happen at yourWORKPLACE• Review and update your workplace alcohol and drug and mentalhealth policies as needed. If you don’t have these policies in place,look into getting them.• Educate employees on the different types of help available throughyour workplace union and human resource department.• Hold a presentation with an expert on mental health, addiction, andconcurrent disorders.• Increase awareness using educational webinars offered by the Centrefor Addiction and Mental Health atwww.camh.net/education/Online_courses_webinars/mha101/17 9

MindfulDon’t forget tokeep your brainactive too.AgingAs we age, our bodies and brains change. Memory loss, shorter attention spans, and problems with speechare common changes. Right now, the aging population in Canada is the highest it’s ever been. The elderlypopulation (65 years and older) accounts for 25% of Canada’s overall population (Statistics Canada, 2010).In 2011, the first of the Baby Boomers turn 65, making this age group and their mental health more of afocus than ever before.Can anything be done? Yes. Keeping your body andbrain active can help slow the aging process of the brain.18Age-related changesIn the elderly, the brain has been found to shrink in size. Forexample, the caudate (responsible for learning and memory),the cerebellum (responsible for coordination, attention, andlanguage), and the hippocampus (responsible for memory)have been found to shrink the most of all brain sections in theelderly (Raz et al., 2005). Certain life events can also speed upthe process by putting extra stress on us.Life events of the elderlyAs we get older, we are faced with many transitions such asretirement, a loss of independence (i.e., losing a driver’s licence,moving into assisted-living facilities), and the loss of lovedones. These transitions put stress on the brain.The elderly brain is very sensitive to stress. For example, thehippocampus has been found to be at high risk for changesduring stressful times. Declines in this area of the brain, fromboth normal aging and stress, can lead to memory problems.Memory loss is a common mental health issue of the elderly(Lupien et al., 2009).Engage your body and brainBetween the normal age-related changes of the brain and thestress of life events, the elderly face many mental health issues.Being physically active, throughout your life, has apositive impact on your mental health. Research showedblood flow to the cerebellum was higher in a group ofphysically active seniors than in a group of inactiveseniors. Those who were active also showed higherperformance in cognitive tests, especially “executivecontrol processes” such as planning, scheduling,remembering, and multi-tasking (Kramer et al., 2006).Don’t forget to keep your brain active too. Reading,doing crossword puzzles, playing Scrabble, and othermentally challenging tasks can help stimulate blood flowand activity in the brain. This has been shown to reducethe risk of memory loss and help maintain balance andcoordination (Verghese et al., 2006).Though age-related brain changes willhappen, being active in both body and mindcan help slow them down.Key References:Statistics Canada. (2010). Population projections: Canada, the provinces andterritories. Retrieved June 30, 2010, from http://www.statcan.gc.ca/dailyquotidien/100526/dq100526b-eng.htmKramer, A. F., Erickson, K. I., & Colcombe, S. J. (2006). Exercise, cognition, and theaging brain. Journal of Applied Physiology, 101, 1237 – 1242.Raz, N., Lindenberger, U., Rodrigue, K. M., Kennedy, K. M., Head, D., Williamson,A., Dahle, C., Gerstorf, D., & Acker, J. D. (2005). Regional brain changes in aginghealthy adults: General trends, individual differences and modifiers. CerebralCortex, 15, 1676 – 1689.Lupien, S. J., McEwen, B. S., Gunnar, M. R., & Heim, C. (2009). Effects of stressthroughout the lifespan on the brain, behaviour and cognition. Nature ReviewsNeuroscience, 10, 434 – 445.Verghese, J., LeValley, A., Derby, C., Kuslansky, G., Katz, M., Hall, C., Buschke, H.,& Lipton, R.B. (2006). Leisure activities and the risk of amnestic mild cognitiveimpairment in the elderly. Neurology, 66 (6), 821-827.

Mental HealthWebsitesCanadian Coalition forSeniors’ Mental Healthwww.ccsmh.caCanadian Mental Health Associationwww.cmha.caCentre for Addiction and Mental Healthwww.camh.netCentre of Knowledge on HealthyChild Developmentwww.knowledge.offordcentre.comCheck Up from the Neck Up, MoodDisorders Association of Ontariowww.checkupfromtheneckup.caHelpguidewww.helpguide.orgMental Health First Aidwww.mentalhealthfirstaid.caMental Health Promotion Unit (MHPU),Public Health Agency of Canadawww.phac-aspc.gc.ca/mh-sm/mhp-psmMental Health Workswww.mentalhealthworks.caMood Disorders Society of Canadawww.mooddisorderscanada.caMoods Magazinewww.moodsmag.comNational Eating DisorderInformation Centrewww.nedic.caW.E. Can Quit is a free quit smoking program available to City ofWindsor staff, retirees and dependant family members interested incutting down or quitting smoking.Program Launch during Employee Appreciation WeekIn November, 2010, WE Can Quit offered free carbon monoxide teststo employees as part of the Health Screenings events. Thankyou to the nearly 100 staff who took a carbon monoxidetest; asked questions about the program; discussedjoining; and took home quit smoking materialsto help themselves or their family memberscut down or quit smoking.Butt Out and Win ContestFrom January 18 – February 18, 2011,a Butt Out and Win contest was runat the City. Staff and family memberswho remained smoke-free for 30 daysand had a buddy confirm their statuswere entered into a draw for a chanceto win 1 of 3 Grand Prizes. Kudos toall staff who participated in the contestand congratulations to our Grand Prizewinners: Kelly Stuart, Amber Polak,and Debra Loiselle.City of Windsor StaffHave Their SayThe Windsor-Essex County Health Unitwould like to thank the 200-plus City ofWindsor employees who took the time tocomplete the W.E. Can Quit survey. Your feedback, ideas, andsuggestions were invaluable to understand what worked (or didn’twork) and how to improve W.E. Can Quit, should it be offered again.Thank-YouThank-you to all employees who participated in W.E. Can Quit andto the City of Windsor’s Workplace Wellness Steering and WorkingCommittees, along with all Workplace Wellness Champions fortheir support of this program.19

Current Position: Financial PlanningAdministrator (Engineering)Duration: 3 ½ yearsFavourite Dish: Poorvangi likes a widevariety of beans, vegetables and fruits withher meals. Her favourite thing to drink iswater at room temperature. She drinks upto 10 - 15 glasses a day.PoorvangiRavalc i t y o f w i n d s o rP r o f i l ePoorvangi is well aware of the importance of practicinga healthy lifestyle. A lot of this can be attributed to herparents, who always encouraged her to be active and eathealthy foods when she was growing up in India. However, whenshe moved to Canada, she also became aware of just howimportant her mental health was to a healthy lifestyle.“When I moved here, I didn’t really know anyone. My family andfriends were not here. It was new and different here for me whichat times was hard to deal with. I found myself feeling stressed,alone and even depressed,” says Poorvangi. As of result of thesefeelings Poorvangi decided to take some courses from the Art ofLiving Foundation.The Art of Living Foundation is a non-profit organization thatfocuses on techniques to help reduce stress in an individual’s lifeand to learn to live in peace. It originated in India in the early1980’s by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and has since been adapted andoffered in over 140 countries. It involves deep breathing exercises(The Kriya), yoga and meditation, and resources/tools to helphandle every day problems that can lead to stress and depression.Currently, Kriya is practiced daily by millions of people aroundthe world.Poorvangi adds, “It was something I always wanted to try as it isvery popular in India. I didn’t have the time to try it until I movedto Canada. I thought it might help with some of the negativefeelings I was experiencing and help me to feel better physically.But as I became more involved with it, I realized how much it washelping with my overall mental health. It really was helping me puta positive perspective on dealing with my everyday problems andstresses. It has had such a calming effect for me.”Poorvangi believes that the Art of Living courses are easy toadapt and do not require any prior background in yoga. Shestrongly believes that we all should put just as much emphasison our mental health as we do on our physical health. “I foundvolunteering with an organization is great too, because helpingothers who are less fortunate really helped to put my own life inperspective,” she says. Another helpful tip to deal withnegative feelings is to do something calming after waking andbefore going to sleep. That way you always start and finish yourday the same way – relaxed.Poorvangi also believes that any kind of physical activity canhelp to release the negative energy and stress. “I try a newphysical activity with my husband each year. Last year we tookup running and competed in the Detroit Free Press Marathon”,she adds.When discussing the Wellness Program, Poorvangi says, “Iwould like to see more group activities. I also really liked thehealth screenings and resources that were available duringEmployee Appreciation Week. It was a great way to find outwhat I needed to do to keep taking care of myself.”For more information on the Art of Living you can contactPoorvangi at 519-255-6100 ext. 6343 or visit the website atwww.artofliving.ca. Please note that before trying any of theseexercises, talk to your health care provider and an instructorfrom the Art of Living Foundation.© 2011. Produced by the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit in partnershipwith City of Windsor Wellness. This newsletter may not be reproducedwithout written permission. Please keep in mind that this newsletter is notintended to diagnose or treat illnesses. Please consult your physician regardingpersonal health problems or major changes in diet or exercise.