Family Forum Newsletter Fall 2013

P

age 3

Inside This Issue

1 Interview with Dr. Sarah Jarmain

2 Family Council Advisory Network

3 Satisfaction survey for families

3 Resource for families

4 Grand Opening of Southwest Centre

5 Mental Health Commission of Canada

5 Discharge prescription change

6 Music Balm/ Hugs

7. Services for families

8. Calendar of events

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Family Forum Newsletter

VOLUME 3

Season 2013

The Family Advisory Council of Regional Mental Health Care London and Southwest Center for Forensic Mental Health Care

An interview with Site Chief Dr. Sarah Jarmain by Christine Boyd

It was August 28, 2013, when I sat down to chat with Dr. Sarah Jarmain about the role of families and caregivers in the process of recovery from mental illness

The first thing to note, Dr. Jarmain said, is that the definition of family is different for each individual. It may be biological family or friends, neighbours, whoever their support system may be.

Family and friends know “the real person: what they’re capable of, what their real personality is like, what’s important in their life,” she said. It’s important to “let the professionals know who that real person is because sometimes, when we’re only meeting them in the midst of illness, we don’t get a good sense of who they are.” Caregivers can advocate for the person, give a sense of support, provide a distraction from the challenges of illness, and help them working on achieving wellness.

Families encounter a number of challenges when trying to deal with the illness of a loved one. Chief among them is how to navigate the system. It can be difficult to see a loved one in distress and not know where to turn for help or how to access that help.

Families also struggle with the restrictions of the Mental Health Act. Simply put, the law gives the patient the right to keep their medical information private. It can be frustrating when a person is very ill and may have no insight into their illness, yet medical personnel are not able to share any information. The Mental Health Act allows family members to provide information to professionals – but this isn’t always accepted by the clinicians. There are many reasons why an individual may not want staff to talk to their family. It can be important to figure out why. Sometimes they may not understand what will be shared or why. At times like this it may be helpful to have a family member join in a session with their relative and their treatment team. This allows the patient to stay in control of what information is released.

Dr. Jarmain stated that there is “probably a continuum in terms of how actively clinicians pursue family involvement and how comfortable they are in managing the issues that can come up”. She can think of “wonderful examples where clinicians went over and above, really trying to find ways to engage the family together with the patient”. “Unfortunately, some find it easier not to focus in that direction.” We can always do better,” she added.

When someone is ill, it changes the dynamics in a family and it can be hard to manage the stress. Dr. Jarmain shared some stories of cases with which she had been involved –stories of families who were able to come together, talk through issues, and come to a point where they could say, what does everyone need to do to be able to move forward in a positive way? Families can offer a source of support on the path to recovery.

In conclusion: “We all live in families – they’re a huge part of our lives. (We need to ask) how do we help patients and families look at opportunities for sharing in different ways and moving in a positive direction?”

Right: Family member Christine Boyd interviews Dr. Sarah Jarmain,Site Chief of Regional Mental Health Care London and Southwest Centre for Forensic Mental Health Care

About two and a half years ago, Liz Taylor, a member of our Family Advisory Council posed this question. “Wouldn’t it be great if we could form a provincial Family Advisory Council by coming together with other family councils from Mental Health/Addictions Hospitals across the province?” And so it began! Our goals were to build strong relationships between family councils, share information and best practices and to speak with a united voice with respect to issues of common concern to our family members. A committee of three was formed and over the summer of 2011 other sites were contacted. Our first planning meeting took place at the Centre for Addictions and Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto that fall and was attended by family and staff members from CAMH, Ontario Shores and Regional Mental Health Care London (RMHCL). We found, although we shared similar interests and experiences, there was much we could learn from each other. We were excited at the prospect. Did we want to go fast or did we want to go

far? The “far goal” appealed to us all! We held two more planning meetings, one at Ontario Shores and the other at RMHCL, gradually adding members from the Royal Ottawa, St. Joseph’s Hamilton, and North Bay to our numbers. Our first official Family Council Advisory Network (FCAN) meeting was held in the spring of 2012. What have we accomplished?

We have a great name, FCAN which can be read as Family Council Advisory Network or Families CAN! We now have seventeen members representing nine sites from North Bay to Windsor. Each member site of FCAN has a corporate sponsor from their hospital. Terms of reference have been developed and approved. A Provincial Family Satisfaction Survey has been launched by Ontario Shores and members across the

province have been invited to participate. FCAN members have attended some Ontario Caregiver Coalition meetings and consideration is being

given to becoming a supporting member. FCAN is planning its first provincial conference for the spring of 2014. We have had an opportunity to learn how other hospitals deliver mental health/addiction services. FCAN meets four times a year and meetings rotate across the province. All members of Family Advisory

Councils are considered FCAN members. However, it is up to each council to appoint representatives to attend FCAN meetings.

Liz Taylor, Janice Wingrove and I would like to thank Laurel Lamarre, in the Family Resource Centre and Deb Corring, our corporate sponsor for their ongoing support.

If you would like to learn more about FCAN and participate in a stimulating day of education, please join us in Toronto on Wednesday, June 4, 2014 for our first “Families CAN” conference. You will not be disappointed!

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FAMILY COUNCIL ADVISORY NETWORK By Carol Riddell-Elson

Satisfaction Survey for Family Members / Most Significant Visitors

Aligned with our commitment to patient-centered care, Regional Mental Health Care London and the Southwest Centre for Forensic Mental Health Care will conduct our annual satisfaction survey for family members/most significant visitors of inpatients. The survey will assist in identifying areas of accomplishment and opportunities for

improvement. The survey will be mailed by National Research Corporation Canada (NRCC) in October. Patients must provide consent to allow NRCC to mail their family member/most significant visitor a survey. Additionally, patients will identify the family member/most significant visitor to be contacted. In the event that a patient is incapable to consent, the Substitute Decision Maker will be approached for consent. The survey will ask family members/most significant visitors questions regarding their satisfaction with the quality of care and services provided, the living environment, communication, patient care, and more. All information provided is confidential and results will be reported collectively. For more information on the survey, please contact Kristen Lethbridge, Quality Measurement & Clinical Decision Support, at 519-646-6100 extension 47197.

Look up this great resource – http://www.beingthereguide.com

Being There: When Mental Illness Strikes Someone Near You – A guide for a friend, family member, or co-worker By: Katherine Farris and Larry MacDonald 2005

This guide was written with a friend by a former companion who has experienced the bewilderment and sense of aloneness that comes from being suddenly on the spot during a mental health crisis. It was created to help others keep their footing, understand the challenges they may face, and learn the things they could do to help during this extraordinarily difficult time, passing on advice from experienced companions to new ones.

This resource includes interviews with many who are knowledgeable about mental illness: doctors, psychiatric nurses, case workers, directors of community health organizations and people with mental illness themselves.

The guide can be viewed in its entirety by visiting the website listed above.

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Former patients Brett Batten (Left) and Bill Lee (Right) raise the flag at the Grand Opening Ceremony of Southwest Centre for Forensic

Mental Health Care.

St. Joseph's celebrates the grand opening of Southwest Centre for Forensic Mental Health Care

On June 14, St. Joseph’s held its grand opening of Southwest Centre for Forensic Mental Health Care. The formal opening ceremony, attended by about 300 people, was led by local Elgin County historian and former Elgin MPP Steve Peters with participation of several dignitaries, including Premier Kathleen Wynne.

"It's a centre that's designed not just to treat mental health issues but to promote healing and recovery so patients can successfully

return to their communities, because that is the point," said the Premier during her speech. "The centre represents that new way of thinking about mental health; a new perspective on patient care, one that's driven by compassion respect and hope." Former

forensic patient Brett Batten shared his story with dignitaries, community members, care providers and friends during the day's formal program. His words were both a testament to the excellent care he received from St. Joseph's forensic mental health care team and an affirmation of what the new Southwest Centre means for the future of forensic mental health care in Elgin County and throughout the region. Knowing first-hand what this facility will mean for the future, his powerful and candid words brought perspective and purpose to opening and the audience to their feet in a standing ovation.

"When I see this building I am convinced that the individuals who will pass through here will be cared for on many levels. I hope these surroundings remind them that they are not abandoned or forgotten. When I see this building I know my community cares about mental illness. When I see this building I know society has compassion."

The new purpose-built facility houses 89 beds and offers comprehensive inpatient and out-patient services for those with a mental illness who have come into significant contact with the criminal justice system. The 233,640 square feet of contemporary, therapeutic space will facilitate the recovery process for patients and help provide them with the skills to return to full and successful living back in their home communities.

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From left to right: Health Minister Deb Matthews, Brett Batten, Premier, Kathleen Wynne and St. Joseph's President and CEO Dr. Gillian Kernaghan outside of the new Southwest Centre.

Health Minister, Deb Matthews speaks with Bill Lee member of the Patients’

Council

Mental Health Commission of Canada releases national guidelines to improve support for family caregivers

A loved one’s mental health problem or illness often impacts family, friends and supporters. Caring for a person living with a mental illness often creates emotional, physical, financial and social burdens for caregivers. The Mental Health Commission of Canada has created guidelines for policy makers and

service providers that seek to recognize and support family caregivers’ needs, including recommendations on services and supports caregivers find useful.

The “National Guidelines for a Comprehensive Services System to Support Family Caregivers of Adults with Mental Health Problems and Illnesses” was release in June 2013. Visit the Mental Health Commission of Canada at http://www.mentalhealthcommission.ca for the document.

The Guidelines include 41 recommendations and have been grouped into five broad categories:

1. Integrating Family Support into Mental Health Services

2. Training and Support for Mental Health Service Providers

3. Government and Policy

4. Intersectoral Partnerships

5. Public Awareness

Changes in discharge prescription at Regional Mental Health Care London by Mary Beth Blocker - Pharmacy Operations Coordinator RMHC

With the focus of care at our mental health facilities shifting to recovery based care there is a consensus that more emphasis be placed on enabling patients to acquire the skills to live independently in the community

Changes to the way discharge prescriptions are provided to patients who are transitioning back home are being made at Regional Mental Health Care London

(RMHCL). Starting October 16, your doctor will give you a discharge prescription. For your convenience, your prescription can be filled at the RMHCL pharmacy, Prescription Shop 2, located on site near the vending machines, in the main hallway. It is open from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Friday.

Alternatively, you can take your prescription to your community pharmacy of choice. Wherever you go to have your prescription filled, you will need to provide your current ODSP card or third party insurance information. By changing the way we provide your discharge prescriptions, we are giving the responsibility for managing your prescriptions back to you.

This is just another important step on your road to recovery. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact a member of your pharmacy team.

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Mark your calendars!!

The 4th Annual Music Balm (A concert by performers with lived experience of mental illness)

WHEN: October 6, 2013

WHERE: Aeolian Hall, 795 Dundas Street

TIME: 2:00 – 4:30 pm

Community-University Research Alliance

3rd Annual CURA Conference – “Poverty & Social Inclusion” Keynote Speaker: Dr. Patrick Corrigan WHEN: October 23rd and 24th WHERE: Best Western Lamplighter Hotel – 591 Wellington St. To register (519) 658-8500 ext, 75896 or email [email protected]

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HUGS

It’s wondrous what a hug can do. A hug can cheer you when you’re blue. A hug can say, “I love you so”. Or, “Gee, I hate to see you go.” A hug is “Welcome Back again.” And “Great to see you! Where’ve you been?” A hug can sooth a small child’s pain And bring a rainbow after rain. That hug! There’s just no doubt about it. We scarcely could survive without it! A hug delights and warms and charms. It must be why God gave us arms. Hugs are great for fathers and mothers. Sweet for sisters, swell for brothers And chances are your favorite aunts Love them more than potted plants. Kittens crave them. Puppies love them. Heads of state are not above them. A hug can break the language barrier. And make your travels so much merrier. No need to fret about your store of ‘em. So stretch those arms without delay.

And give someone a hug today!!!

The Tillmann Family Resource Centre offers a variety of services for families their loved ones and mental health professionals, including:

A resource library which contains current books, magazines, videos, audio tapes, and pamphlets on most mental illnesses

An opportunity to meet one-on-one with another family member who has had a personal experience with mental illness and the mental health system

Participation in a support group comprised of 5-10 family members affected by mental illness and facilitated by a trained family member (every second Tuesday)

A free seven week family education course offered twice per year (Spring/Fall) Speakers for community groups Membership on the Family Advisory Council A computer for family members to search for internet information on mental health We are located at Regional Mental Health Care London 850 Highbury Ave. N., Room A117 (down the left hallway off the main foyer of RMHC London).

The resource centre is open: Monday to Friday: 8 am - 4 pm (unless otherwise posted) Contact us at: 519 455-5110 Ext. 47440 or visit our webpage

http://www.sjhc.london.on.ca/mental-health-care/tillmann-family-resource-centre-and-family-advisory-council

Attention Family Members!

Did you know that we offer a FREE support group to family members who are supporting a loved

one with a mental illness?

The Support Group meets every second Tuesday from 1:30 to 3:00, at Regional Mental Health Care London. Interested in this group, call the Tillmann Family Resource Centre at 519-455-5110, Ext. 47440 for further

details.

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If you are interested in donating to Regional Mental Health Care:

Contact: Wendy Sanderson-Culley Senior Development Officer 519-646-6100, ext. 65454

Donations for the Family Resource Centre can be made directly to: St. Joseph's Health Care Foundation Attn: Dr. Wm. A. Tillmann Memorial Fund Resource Centre for Families 268 Grosvenor Street London, ON N6A 4V2

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Here is a list of some upcoming activities happening involving the Family Advisory Council or other groups to educate or assist patients and their families. Contact the Family Resource Centre at 519 – 455-5110 Ext. 47440

Family Education Course – Sept. 25, October 3, 10, 17, 24

Nov. 7

CURA Conference – Oct. 23 & 24

Music Balm – Oct. 6

Family Advisory Council - Nov. 4, Dec. 9

Family Support Group – Oct. 1, 15, 29, Nov. 12, 26, Dec. 10, 17

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The Family Forum Newsletter

This newsletter is intended to be used as a communication vehicle by the Family Advisory Council at Regional Mental Health Care with families who share common interests and concerns. The information herein is believed to be accurate; St. Joseph’s Health Care, London, the Family Advisory Council, and the author(s) cannot be held responsible for any errors. It is the responsibility of the reader to work with professionals when making any clinical decisions.