VMIAC E-Bulletin
VMIAC is an organization for people who have had mental or emotional health problems. VMIAC is run by people who have had mental or emotional health problems. VMIAC believes that people with personal experience of mental health problems have a valuable role to play in the developments of mental health services. VMIAC is committed to active consumer participation at all levels of the mental health system.
In this Edition:
1. Field Infocast: 2. NDIS: 3. Weird and Wonderful Documentary: 4. Victorian State Disability Plan: 5. TOWARDS A NEW DEFINITION OF AUTISM; WEBINAR: 6. Safe In Oz: 7. Nicci Wall Newsletter: 8. Infoxchange Australia's Community Infocast: 9. LIFE Living is for Everyone: 10. NDIS: 11. CAN (Mental Health) Inc FYI: 12. Paws for Purrfect Pet Therapy: 13. SARDAA NEWSLETTER (USA): 14. Free Public Talk on Recovery: 15. Age Newspaper; No Help for the Mentally Ill facing Court Charges: 16. Survey on increasing employment prospects:
The email is sent every week and contains items which may interest mental health consumers, carers and service providers and which otherwise they may not be able to access. Thank you for subscribing to this VMIAC email if you wish to unsubscribe please contact info@vmiac.org.au Bill Moon or Dominic Troughton Information Officer Victorian Mental Illness Awareness Council Tel (03)9380 3900 http://www.vmiac.org.au/ This message is intended for the addressee and may contain confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete this message and notify the sender. Views expressed are those of the document initiator/writer, and are not necessarily the views of the Victorian Mental Illness Awareness Council.
DATE:08/Feb/2013
VOLUME: 2 VMIAC Bldg 1, 22 Aintree Street, Brunswick East 3057 Tel: 03 3980 3900 Fax: 03 9388 1445 E-mail: info@vmiac.org.au www.vmiac.org.au
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1/ FIELD INFOCAST: Infocast - Friday, February 1, 2013 field furthering inclusive learning & development Values and Attitudes in Action a field Workshop Bendigo - Ballarat - Traralgon "We need people to treat us well, not because they are told to ...but because we are PEOPLE" - Maree Ireland, Coordinator Communications, field The right values and attitudes are recognised as one of the most essential elements of a good worker. They are crucial in ensuring positive cultural change in the disability sector and for the future National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Workshop overview This one day workshop provides an opportunity for disability support workers to explore and reflect on the values that underpin working in the disability sector. It is designed to assist workers to become more conscious and reflective in their day to day interactions. For full details, visit the Values and Attitudes Workshop on the field website. Who should attend This workshop is specifically designed for disability support workers across a range of accommodation, day, employment and other support services. It will also be valuable for the supervisors and managers of those workers. Learning activities in the session assume participants are working directly with people with a disability. Comments from previous participants of the workshop
It really makes you evaluate your own attitudes & values. It was interesting and very thought provoking. Good to learn new info on a subject we think we know well. Also confirms good things we do. This is a not to be missed workshop...
Workshop details Traralgon When: 9.30am - 4:30pm, Thursday 21st March, 2013 Where: GippsTAFE Academy Conference Centre, 49-63 Princes St, Traralgon Cost: Early Bird (if paid by Thursday, 21st February): $77, inc GST Full Price: $99, inc GST Concession: $55, inc GST.
DATE:08/Feb/2013
VOLUME: 2 VMIAC Bldg 1, 22 Aintree Street, Brunswick East 3057 Tel: 03 3980 3900 Fax: 03 9388 1445 E-mail: info@vmiac.org.au www.vmiac.org.au
ISSUE:69
Register online to attend the Traralgon workshop Ballarat When: 9.30am - 4:30pm, Wednesday 27th March, 2013 Where: Oscar's, 18 Doveton St South, Ballarat Cost: Early Bird (if paid by Wednesday, 27th February): $77, inc GST Full Price: $99, inc GST Concession: $55, inc GST. Register online to attend the Ballarat workshop Bendigo When: 9.30am - 4:30pm, Friday 3rd May, 2013 Where: Quest Bendigo Central, 228 McCrae St, Bendigo Cost: Early Bird (if paid by Friday 4th April): $77, inc GST Full Price: $99, inc GST Concession: $55, inc GST. Register online to attend the Bendigo workshop Further information View the Values and Attitudes Workshop on the field website. Or you can contact Leonie Davey at field with any enquiries: Tel: 03 9982 0101 Email: training@field.org.au Regards field Level 4, 99 Queen Street Melbourne 3000 T: 9982 0100 F: 9642 5170 www.field.org.au field on facebook twitter
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DATE:08/Feb/2013
VOLUME: 2 VMIAC Bldg 1, 22 Aintree Street, Brunswick East 3057 Tel: 03 3980 3900 Fax: 03 9388 1445 E-mail: info@vmiac.org.au www.vmiac.org.au
ISSUE:69
2/ NDIS:
National Disability Insurance Scheme update 32 Dear Friends We are now a month into 2013 - the year in which the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will become a reality for thousands of Australians with disability, their families and carers. We’re working hard to deliver this major reform and making good progress preparing for launch of the NDIS in less than six months’ time. The NDIS Launch Transition Agency is on the ground and working with local communities in launch sites across the country. Earlier this week, Jenny met Agency staff when she visited local people with disability in Newcastle and talked with them about launch preparations in their region. Work has commenced on 73 Practical Design Fund projects that will tap into the disability and community sectors’ knowledge and expertise, delivering practical solutions and innovative approaches to help people and organisations make the most of the NDIS. For example, the Julia Farr organisation is designing an online e-Market Place for disability services. This would be an interactive forum for people in the disability community to easily access information about support options and share advice on the quality of supports. You can find out more about all the PDF projects on the NDIS website. Today we released a consultation paper on the NDIS Rules for your feedback. The rules will guide the detailed operation of the scheme and accompany the legislation that the Prime Minister introduced to Parliament last year. We know how valuable it is that people with disability, their carers, families and the disability sector are involved in building the NDIS. The purpose of the consultation paper is to explain the approach being developed for the rules and to seek people’s comments and input. You can provide feedback on the NDIS Rules consultation paper at the NDIS website.
DATE:08/Feb/2013
VOLUME: 2 VMIAC Bldg 1, 22 Aintree Street, Brunswick East 3057 Tel: 03 3980 3900 Fax: 03 9388 1445 E-mail: info@vmiac.org.au www.vmiac.org.au
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You can also share your views about the NDIS Rules by participating in the latest NDIS Your Say forum. You will now also find new fact sheets on the NDIS website, covering important information such as safeguards for the NDIS, early intervention, choice and control and service delivery for Indigenous Australians. Further information and fact sheets will become available as we progress to launch. Thank you for your continued support as we move closer to the start of the NDIS. Jenny Macklin and Jan McLucas ______________________________________________________________________ IMPORTANT: This message, and any attachments to it, contains information that is confidential and may also be the subject of legal professional or other privilege. If you are not the intended recipient of this message, you must not review, copy, disseminate or disclose its contents to any other party or take action in reliance of any material contained within it. If you have received this message in error, please notify the sender immediately by return email informing them of the mistake and delete all copies of the message from your computer system. ______________________________________________________________________
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DATE:08/Feb/2013
VOLUME: 2 VMIAC Bldg 1, 22 Aintree Street, Brunswick East 3057 Tel: 03 3980 3900 Fax: 03 9388 1445 E-mail: info@vmiac.org.au www.vmiac.org.au
ISSUE:69
3/ Weird and Wonderful Documentary:
Weird and Wonderful is a feature length documentary about the rise and fight of the disability rights movement. It features interviews and extraordinary archival footage from around the world as activists who fought for disability rights recall the issues, battles, characters, leaders and triumphs of the disability rights movement from the 1960's to today. The names of activists are not famous yet they are people who have literally changed the world we live in: Bob Kafka, Colin Barnes, Johnny Crescendo, Lesley Hall, Kitty Cone, Zona Roberts, Mike Letch, and many more have changed our schools, buildings, buses, footpaths, offices, workplaces, houses and most of all they have changed our perceptions when it comes to what is possible with a disability. These stories come from the UK, America and Australia and are woven together to tell a compelling cultural and political story from the earliest murmurings of protest from those segregated in institutions through a series of extraordinary battles that disabled people fought to be seen, heard and participate in society. Research for this film began in 2008 and filming took place in the UK, Switzerland and America in 2010 followed by further filming in Australia through 2011 and 2012. Archives from across the world have been collected and we are currently creating an assembly edit. So far this project has attracted a total of $125,000 from Film Victoria, the City of Melbourne, Screen Australia, A Churchill Fellowship, the Victorian Department of Human Services and Yooralla. The money so far has paid for research and filming in Australia, the UK, Switzerland and The USA. Interviews have been recorded, much archival footage has been uncovered, and assembly edit is well underway. the next step is that the Pozible crowd funding dollars will be used to pay editor Rob Murphy to create a fine cut. From there we will be seeking completion funding to pay for archival rights and final grading and sound mixing. The money for the edit is a crucial stage in getting this project into shape so the structure, style and tone of the film can be fully appreciated. A short teaser for the film has been created and you can watch it here: http://vimeo.com/58515647 You can explore this project further here: www.wierdandwonderful.net On this website you can see tasters of some of the stories from the film, as well as written articles that relate to the stories and characters in the film. Making this film has been an amazing and challenging adventure. As a filmmaker Weird and Wonderful is really important to me as I've been making documentaries about disability and disability rights for nearly 20 years and I wanted to make a film that draws on the knowledge I've accumulated over the years and showcases many of the amazing people and stories I've come across. I also really wanted this film to be part of a meaningful discourse about disability and to signal a move on from stories that focus solely on "inspirational heroes" and "tragic victims". I hope you'll want to be a part of this exciting and important documentary by supporting this crowd funding campaign. http://www.pozible.com/project/14914
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DATE:08/Feb/2013
VOLUME: 2 VMIAC Bldg 1, 22 Aintree Street, Brunswick East 3057 Tel: 03 3980 3900 Fax: 03 9388 1445 E-mail: info@vmiac.org.au www.vmiac.org.au
ISSUE:69
4/ Victorian State Disability Plan: Good afternoon, We are pleased to provide you with the Victorian state disability plan 2013–2016, which was released by the Victorian Government on 19 December 2012. The plan sets out the Victorian Government’s commitment to tackling the barriers which prevent people with a disability and their families and carers from participating fully in community life. The Victorian state disability plan 2013–2016 comprises a suite of documents, which includes: A four-year strategic framework and set of key policy directions An implementation plan of approximately 140 actions to be undertaken across all relevant government departments in 2013 and 2014 A companion document, which includes links to other government initiatives, statistics about the sector and consultation information. The plan identifies how government, business and the broader community can work together to ensure people with a disability and their family and carers are able to participate in all aspects of life, including at home, at work and in the community. We will know if the plan is making a positive difference by monitoring the results of our actions. People with a disability and their family and carers will be central to how we monitor the plan. In releasing the plan, we acknowledge the terrific input provided by more than 500 people with a disability, their families and carers and representatives from the disability sector, during the consultation period. We look forward to working with you to make a real difference to the lives of people with a disability, their family and carers. You will find copies of the Victorian state disability plan 2013–2016 on the website: www.dhs.vic.gov.au/statedisabilityplan. Yours sincerely
Hon Mary Wooldridge MP Minister for Community Services Minister for Mental Health Minister for Women’s Affairs
Ms Andrea Coote MLC Parliamentary Secretary Families and Community Services State Disability Plan | Office for Disability Department of Human Services | Level 39, 2 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne p. 1300 880 043| e. statedisabilityplan@dhs.vic.gov.au | www.dhs.vic.gov.au
Top DATE:08/Feb/2013
VOLUME: 2 VMIAC Bldg 1, 22 Aintree Street, Brunswick East 3057 Tel: 03 3980 3900 Fax: 03 9388 1445 E-mail: info@vmiac.org.au www.vmiac.org.au
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5/ TOWARDS A NEW DEFINITION OF AUTISM; WEBINAR:
TOWARDS A NEW DEFINITION OF AUTISM: WEBINAR A free webinar presented by the Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre. Date: 13th Feb 2013 10:00am until 13th Feb 2013 11:30am (Add to calendar) Contact: OTARC otarc@latrobe.edu.au Cost: Free Type of Event: Other In October OTARC held a public forum on the changes to the diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorders in the new edition of the DSM (DSM-5). Due to the popularity of this forum, OTARC will host a webinar on this topic on February 13. Register your interest in the webinar here. Instructions will be emailed to participants soon. TOWARDS A NEW DEFINITION OF AUTISM – CHANGES IN THE DSM DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA
The fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM -5), to be published in 2013, is introducing significant changes to current diagnostic definitions of Autism and related conditions. In particular, with the introduction of the new diagnostic criteria, some of the diagnostic concepts that have influenced clinical practice, research studies, and cultural perceptions of Autism will no longer be used; most notably the concepts of ‘Asperger’s Disorder’, ‘Pervasive Developmental Disorders’ and the ‘triad of symptoms’. The Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre (OTARC) is hosting a free public webinar to discuss these changes. The webinar is open to all interested people, including professionals and families. For additional information, email otarc@latrobe.edu.au or call 03 9479 2497 (Wednesdays to Fridays). Go back to OTARC News and Events
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DATE:08/Feb/2013
VOLUME: 2 VMIAC Bldg 1, 22 Aintree Street, Brunswick East 3057 Tel: 03 3980 3900 Fax: 03 9388 1445 E-mail: info@vmiac.org.au www.vmiac.org.au
ISSUE:69
6/ Safe In Oz :
SAFE in Oz addresses specialist mental health issues through training workshops and consultancy services. SAFE in Oz provides training to professionals to allow them to better understand the concept of self-abuse and working with individuals who self-abuse. We also train workers to facilitate, on a group and one-to-one level utilising a module based consumer recovery package. SAFE in Oz is committed to the promotion of improved mental health practices in the workplace and offers training workshops for employees, supervisors, managers and employers. Contact: http://www.safeinoz.com.au/index.php?content=home
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DATE:08/Feb/2013
VOLUME: 2 VMIAC Bldg 1, 22 Aintree Street, Brunswick East 3057 Tel: 03 3980 3900 Fax: 03 9388 1445 E-mail: info@vmiac.org.au www.vmiac.org.au
ISSUE:69
7/ Nicci Wall Newsletter:
From ‘Nicci Wall - Mental Health Advocate’
In this What's New: Keith Mahar’s Bipolar Lived Experience Hoarding Support Group Human Rights Violations Among Mentally Ill Documentary Brainwaves Black Dog Institute Research Studies Mental Health Research Institute Research Studies SANE Australia - Over 50s and Mental Illness Keith Mahar’s Bipolar Lived Experience Keith Mahar is well known in both Canada and Australia for his Mental Health Advocacy. Watch his story, http://www.abc.net.au/local/videos/2011/09/27/3327005.htm
Hoarding Support Group “People affected by hoarding can find it helpful to meet others with similar experiences. Sharing self-help strategies in a relaxed & understanding environment, hearing from guest speakers & working through issues in a workshop setting can be a great support to recovery”. ARCVic offers a facilitated support group for people who have a tendency to hoard items. Offering guest speakers, workshops, information & self-help. This is a closed group, open to new members at the start of each term. Please see the attachments; and for further information please contact: Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria Helpline: (03) 9830 0533 / 1300 269 438 Office: (03) 9830 0566 292 Canterbury Road, Surrey Hillls www.arcvic.org.au arcmail@arcvic.org.au
Human Rights Violations Among Mentally Ill Documentary The following is a documentary project on human rights violations among mentally ill. The film is part of a campaign to liberate mentally ill people from seclusion and restraint: http://www.documentaryaustralia.com.au/films/details/1596/free-from-pasung-the-fightfor-human-rights-for-indonesias-mentally-ill (seeking sponsors) documentary foundation link http://erminiacolucci.weebly.com/free-from-pasung.html
DATE:08/Feb/2013
VOLUME: 2 VMIAC Bldg 1, 22 Aintree Street, Brunswick East 3057 Tel: 03 3980 3900 Fax: 03 9388 1445 E-mail: info@vmiac.org.au www.vmiac.org.au
ISSUE:69
Brainwaves Brainwaves 3CR community mental health awareness radio program: (Free Podcasts) The hard-working Brainwaves team is geared up for 2013 to provide more informative, entertaining and thought-provoking programs. The team is still smiling after last November winning the 2012 Community Broadcasting Association of Australia ‘Excellence in Training Award’. You can tune into Brainwaves every Wednesday at 5pm on 3CR Community Radio 855am, or download the podcasts from the 3CR website. Brainwaves podcasts can also be downloaded for free from iTunes. Visit https://itunes.apple.com/au/podcast/brainwaves/id451683572 for more information. Brainwaves is funded by Mental Illness Fellowship Victoria and produced and presented by people with lived experience of mental illness. (seeking sponsors) Brain Waves Hear the world differently - Tune into 3CR Community Radio Wednesdays at 5pm for Brain Waves - Melbourne’s drive time radio show giving voice to people with mental illness, 1 in 5 have a mental illness ... but 5 in 5 can enjoy this great program featuring heart-warming stories, great information - and some laughs as well! Find us at 3CR – 855AM on your dial. Sponsored by Mental Illness Fellowship Victoria. http://www.3cr.org.au/brainwaves Listener Feedback Can be sent to: brainwaves@mifellowship.org Please Tune in, Please subscribe to our podcasts. Please send in your feedback. Hope you Enjoy the Show!!
Black Dog Institute Research Studies (University of NSW) Genetic markers of psychotic and mood disorders Many people experience a combination of psychotic and mood symptoms that change over time, and often do not fit neatly into the diagnostic categories of ‘schizophrenia’ or ‘bipolar disorder’. Regardless of diagnosis, common treatments for psychotic and mood symptoms do not currently address shared cognitive deficits associated with these conditions. New evidence has suggested that shared genetic vulnerability among schizophrenia and bipolar disorders may be associated with shared cognitive deficits in working memory, attention and emotion regulation. We plan to find out which common genetic markers contribute to shared cognitive deficits among psychotic and mood disorders, irrespective of the actual diagnostic category. This five-year study, funded by the NHRMC, requires 300 people in total to volunteer their time and efforts to make the study a success. Participants are asked to complete a
DATE:08/Feb/2013
VOLUME: 2 VMIAC Bldg 1, 22 Aintree Street, Brunswick East 3057 Tel: 03 3980 3900 Fax: 03 9388 1445 E-mail: info@vmiac.org.au www.vmiac.org.au
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series questionnaires and tasks on a computer, as well as donate blood for genetic analyses, provide salvia samples in relation to stress-responses, and undergo a functional brain scan. Participants will be contributing to the current understanding of the factors involved in the development of psychotic and mood disorders. This knowledge has the potential to increase the choice and efficacy of treatments according to individual symptom, cognitive, and genetic profiles. We are seeking volunteers who •Have a diagnosis of either bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder •Are aged between 18-60 years old •Are proficient in English Participation is divided over two days (approximately seven hours in total). Participants are reimbursed up to $70. Appointment flexibility is also available. For more information, please contact: •Nicholas Vella on (02) 8382 1436 or n.vella@unsw.edu.au •Jesseca Rowland on (02) 8282 1423 or j.rowland@unsw.edu.au •Dr Melissa Green on (02) 8382 1584 or melissa.green@unsw.edu.au Direct current stimulation (DCS) Researchers are investigating direct current stimulation (DCS) as a treatment for depression and potential alternative to medication and electroconvulsive therapy. The stimulation is painless with no known serious side effects (some people report a headache afterwards), and the person is fully awake and alert during the 30 minute treatment sessions. We are looking for:
People aged over 18 People who have been experiencing feelings of depression for at least 4 weeks prior to study People able to commit to the trial for at least 4 weeks with the option of additional further treatment, attending usually for 40 minutes every weekday.
For more information call 02 9382 3720 or email TMSandDCS@unsw.edu.au Watch a demonstration of DCS with a real patient
Watch part 1 (1 minute) Watch part 2 (30 seconds) Watch a presentation by the director of the study
Download the flyer [PDF, 52KB] Watch a clip about the study from Channel Ten News
DATE:08/Feb/2013
VOLUME: 2 VMIAC Bldg 1, 22 Aintree Street, Brunswick East 3057 Tel: 03 3980 3900 Fax: 03 9388 1445 E-mail: info@vmiac.org.au www.vmiac.org.au
ISSUE:69
Bipolar Genetics Study Bipolar disorder is a common condition, occurring in one to four percent of the population. It runs in families and this study is aimed at finding out the specific genes that make people prone to developing bipolar disorder. We are looking for families:
that include at least two people who have bipolar disorder (at least one who is diagnosed with bipolar I) that have the illness in at least two generations that have inherited the condition from only one side of the family.
To find out more call 1800 269 269 or email bipolargenetics@unsw.edu.au Ketamine as a treatment for depression An Innovative and Rapid-Acting Treatment for Depression Recent studies overseas have reported dramatic improvement from depression within hours of a single treatment with ketamine. In these studies, the effect of ketamine appeared stronger and much more rapid in onset than conventional antidepressant medications. Ketamine is a medical drug used for anaesthesia, sedation and pain relief. The study is approved by the University of New South Wales and will be conducted at Wesley Hospital in Kogarah. The study is led by psychiatrist Professor Colleen Loo. We are seeking individuals who are currently experiencing depression to participate in this trial. We are looking for people who: - Have significant clinical depression - Are aged 18 or over - Can attend treatment sessions at Wesley Hospital in Kogarah To get involved or to find out more about the study, please contact Natalie Katalinic on 02 9113 1637 or n.katalinic@unsw.edu.au Omega 3 for bipolar during pregnancy Researchers from the Black Dog Institute are inviting people to participate in a study about fish oil (omega 3), pregnancy, and bipolar disorder. You are invited to participate in the study if:
You are in the early stages of pregnancy (<10 weeks) You have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder
DATE:08/Feb/2013
VOLUME: 2 VMIAC Bldg 1, 22 Aintree Street, Brunswick East 3057 Tel: 03 3980 3900 Fax: 03 9388 1445 E-mail: info@vmiac.org.au www.vmiac.org.au
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You have decided to continue mood stabiliser medication while pregnant OR you have decided to discontinue mood stabiliser medication while pregnant
All participants will receive omega 3 supplements, free of charge, for the duration of their pregnancy. If you are interested in participating in this study please contact Amelia Paterson for more information, omega3@blackdog.org.au (02) 9382 9268 UNSW Ethics approval number: HREC 11506 If you know someone who may be interested in participating in this study, you can download a flyer here. Video imaging of facial expressions We are conducting research that examines how facial expressions and vocal responses change when viewing stimuli that elicits emotion. Often the range and ability to exhibit such emotional responses are hampered during depression. We are currently seeking healthy participants who have had no history of mental illness, including depression. Participants are required to view and respond to a short series of video clips, pictures, sentences and questions concerning emotional material and recent experiences. The study is conducted in one 30 minute session at the Black Dog Institute. Participants will be reimbursed $25 for out of pocket expenses. Participant requirements •No history of mental illness •No history a neurological disorder •No history of drug or alcohol dependence of abuse •Right-handed •English as a first language (not the same as fluency in English) •Aged between 30-65 To participate or for more information please contact Matthew Hyett on 02 9382 8353 or m.hyett@unsw.edu.au Normal sadness and depression Whether you have been treated for mood problems or not – or even if you have never experienced depression – we would appreciate interviewing you as part of a study looking at the differences between ‘depression’ and ‘sadness'. You are eligible to participate in this interview if you: • Are fluent in English (written and spoken) • Are between the ages of 18 and 65 • Are willing to be interviewed at the Black Dog Institute in Randwick in addition to completing some brief questionnaires. DATE:08/Feb/2013
VOLUME: 2 VMIAC Bldg 1, 22 Aintree Street, Brunswick East 3057 Tel: 03 3980 3900 Fax: 03 9388 1445 E-mail: info@vmiac.org.au www.vmiac.org.au
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Please contact Amelia if you are interested in participating in this research on 9382 9268 or depression.research@unsw.edu.au Enhancing thinking in bipolar disorder Research into the causes of difficulties with day-to-day functioning experienced by people with bipolar disorder indicates that underlying thinking difficulties associated with this illness are directly related. Therefore, correcting these thinking difficulties that get in the way of everyday activities is critical for improving quality of life for sufferers. One new method to enhance thinking is the use of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). tDCS is a non-invasive technique which involves the passing of a very weak direct current through the brain. The stimulation is painless with no known serious side effects The development of this treatment may ultimately result in improved everyday functioning outcomes for bipolar sufferers within the community. •We are seeking volunteers with bipolar disorder •Volunteers will attend the study at the Black Dog Institute in Randwick for a total of 3 days (approximately 1 hour each session) •Volunteers will be reimbursed $55 in total. For more information, contact Donel Martin on (02) 9382 9261 or donel.martin@unsw.edu.au When mourning turns to depression Have you recently lost a loved one? UNSW Medicine, School of Psychiatry is seeking volunteers for a research study investigating the ways people feel after experiencing bereavement. By participating in this study, you will be contributing to a greater understanding of how people deal with the loss of a loved one and the development of more effective methods of coping. You are eligible to participate if you have suffered the loss of a loved one within the last 3 months. For more information please call Dr Amelia Assareh on 9382 2554 or email a.assareh@unsw.edu.au Read the UNSW press release Expressions of interest for research trial - The Good Night Study Do you have ongoing trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep? The Black Dog Institute in partnership with the Australian National University, University of Sydney and the University of Virginia are preparing to conduct a clinical trial into the effectiveness of a new internet intervention for insomnia. The trial is due to begin in early 2013.
DATE:08/Feb/2013
VOLUME: 2 VMIAC Bldg 1, 22 Aintree Street, Brunswick East 3057 Tel: 03 3980 3900 Fax: 03 9388 1445 E-mail: info@vmiac.org.au www.vmiac.org.au
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If you are interested in joining this trial, please fill in the Expression of Interest form. You will be contacted in the near future with further information and asked to complete a short questionnaire to assess your suitability for the trial. Bipolar kids & sibs study The Bipolar Disorders Unit at the School of Psychiatry of UNSW and the Black Dog Institute are now inviting people to participate in a study aiming to identify what makes people more or less likely to develop bipolar disorder. We are looking for 12-30 year olds who: •EITHER have bipolar disorder •OR don't have bipolar disorder themselves, but have at least one close relative with bipolar disorder, e.g. a parent or sibling. Participation includes: personal interview, completion of questionnaires, donation of a blood and a saliva sample, and some individuals will complete a brain scan. Parents of 12-21 year olds are also invited to complete an interview and questionnaires. Participants will be compensated up to $100 for their time. To participate in the study or to obtain more information, phone 1800 352 292 or email: bipolar-kidsandsibs@unsw.edu.au Mobile phone apps and mental health We are looking for individuals aged between 18-30 to take part in focus groups discussing the role that technology can play in improving mental health. In particular we are interested in finding out how individuals cope with challenges in their lives, and how mobile phone applications can assist individuals in this coping process. We are seeking your input into what makes a mobile phone application appealing, user friendly, and accessible for you, and what things you would find helpful in an application designed to improve mental health and potentially reduce suicidal thoughts. The focus groups will run for a maximum of 2 hours and will be conducted at the Black Dog Institute in Randwick, NSW. You will be reimbursed $30 for out of pocket expenses. To be eligible for this study you must: •Be aged between 18-30 •Be fluent in English •Able to travel to Randwick, NSW for the focus groups •Have some personal experience of mood or anxiety disorder •Be a frequent user of smartphone applications If this sounds like you and you would like to participate in this research or would like more information please call Rebecca Ridani on (02) 9382 8501 or email r.ridani@unsw.edu.au . You will be asked a few questions over the phone to confirm your eligibility, and then allocated to a focus group session.
DATE:08/Feb/2013
VOLUME: 2 VMIAC Bldg 1, 22 Aintree Street, Brunswick East 3057 Tel: 03 3980 3900 Fax: 03 9388 1445 E-mail: info@vmiac.org.au www.vmiac.org.au
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Mental Health Research Institute Research Studies (Melbourne) For details of current research studies across a variety of Mental Illnesses, go to http://www.mhri.edu.au/research
SANE Australia - Over 50s and Mental Illness Hi I am Sabrina Nemorin, the Aged Care Project Coordinator here at SANE Australia. I am now working on a new project area for SANE; â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Over 50s and mental illnessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; which is aimed at evaluating the effect ageing has on the symptoms, challenges and quality of life experienced by people living with a mental illness. As part of this project I have developed two surveys which are now live on the SANE webpage and I was hoping you would be willing to complete the survey, if relevant to you, or to circulate this information to colleagues, sector contacts and any relevant consumers or consumer groups you may be in contact with. The first survey evaluates the experience of people with a mental illness and can be accessed by clicking on the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/saneconsumersurvey The second survey evaluates the experience of carers and can be accessed by clicking on the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/sanecarersurvey I realise that some people may prefer to complete the surveys in hard copy, and therefore I am more than happy to post the surveys with a reply paid envelope. Please contact me at the below details if that is the case. SANE Australia will use the findings to advocate on behalf of older adults affected by mental illness and recommend improved services and funding from government. Sabrina Nemorin Aged Care Project Coordinator Email: sabrina.nemorin@sane.org Cheers, Nicci Wall
DATE:08/Feb/2013
ph: 03 9682 5933
fax: 03 9682 5944
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8/ Infoxchange Australia's Community Infocast:
Informed digital citizens
Safer Internet Day, Tuesday 5 February, promotes safer and more responsible use of online technology and mobile phones, especially amongst children and young people. Now in its 10th year, the Safer Internet Day initiative aims to educate people of all ages on emerging online issues through a range of events and actions conducted locally, nationally and internationally. Using the theme of ‘online rights and responsibilities', Safer Internet Day promotes positive digital citizenship in 90 countries worldwide. Australians are increasingly depending on online access for work, education, communication, every day activities like banking and shopping and access to essential government resources. As reported by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), over two thirds of Australians are making purchases online and the ABS reported one of the most popular online activities was social networking, with 88 per cent of 15 to 17 years olds logging on to social networking sites. Understanding how to use technology confidently and safely is key to developing skilled and engaged communities. Simple steps can be taken to ensure you are safe and responsible online, such as:
ensuring your computer has up-to-date anti-virus protection turning on automatic software updates regularly checking privacy settings on social networking sites using strong passwords educating and informing children and vulnerable groups about safe internet practices.
DATE:08/Feb/2013
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Resources like Cybersmart and the iTaNGO Knowledgebase can help to ensure technology facilitates positive online engagement. A significant part of Infoxchange’s work to achieve ‘technology for social justice’ has been our Digital Inclusion Initiatives, which has included making technology and internet access available and affordable to public housing residents and building digital literacy in our communities through ICT training and resources. Working to achieve clear social outcomes, our digital inclusion initiatives have generated measurable benefits for public housing residents and the broader community. ‘Creating a digitally inclusive society is not just about equal and affordable access to technology, but considers bandwith equality, autonomy of access and assists our communities to become informed and safe digital citizens. In fact, having a strong understanding of all aspects of online and digital technologies has become an essential life skill,’ said Brendan Fitzgerald, Digital Inclusion Manager at Infoxchange. With many of us already online, the way we use the internet affects our personal, social and professional lives and Safer Internet Day is great reminder that we need to be aware and informed digital citizens. For more information: www.infoxchange.net.au www.cybersmart.gov.au www.saferinternet.org iTaNGO Featured Resource: Confused about 'cloud computing' and how it can be used by your organisation? Cloud computing simply means 'internet-based computing', whereby software or files are housed online and served on demand. Chances are you're already using it! View our 'cloud' toolkit Did you know? In each of the past three months ‘Recreation’ was one of the top searches in Service Seeker, Australia's most extensive directory of community support services. EQUAL WORK FOR EQUAL PAY: NAVIGATING THE CHANGES IN THE INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS SYSTEM
DATE:08/Feb/2013
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EQUAL WORK FOR EQUAL PAY: NAVIGATING THE CHANGES IN THE INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS SYSTEM - 6th February, Melbourne - If you employ SACS workers, find out what you need to do, and also what you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to do. Find out more visit www.communitynews.infoxchange.net.au Professor Howard Sercombe answer's "What will youth work look like in 2013"? Wrapping up a series of guest posts on the ultimateyouthworker blogs, Professor Howard Sercombe Speaks to youth work education, funding and the future. A compelling look at the year (and possibly more) ahead for youth work throughout the globe by one of the worlds most published youth work academics. Find out more visit www.youth.infoxchange.net.au/ New training to build equal opportunity and human rights best practice - The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission now has a range of workshops available in 2013 to help you understand your equal opportunity and human rights obligations and move towards best practice. Find out more visit www.disabilitynews.infoxchange.net.au The Difficult Series: Difficult but Necessary Conversations -March 21 -This 1 day workshop will assist the manager/ worker/ staff to understand and demonstrate the skills, techniques and model in having difficult but necessary conversations. The difficult conversation in the workplace will be necessary for the manager with employees, between colleagues and with clients or students. To find out more visit www.healthnews.infoxchange.net.au The iTaNGO Website iTaNGO on LinkedIn
iTaNGO on Facebook -
iTaNGO on Twitter -
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DATE:08/Feb/2013
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9/ LIFE Living is for Everyone:
Expert Insights 7 - Call for questions
Cultural factors are a key consideration when working to prevent suicide. Suicide rates and trends have been found to differ significantly across countries and cultural groups, and much can be learned from the examination and comparison of these factors in countries outside our own. LIFEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s upcoming international edition of Expert Insights features Professor Paul Yip, Director of the Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention at The University of Hong Kong and vice president of the International Association of Suicide Prevention (IASP). His recent monograph "Suicide in Asia: causes and prevention" has provided an important contribution in understanding suicide and its prevention in Asia. Professor Yip is available to answer your questions on the theme of cultural factors in suicide. You may wish to know more about suicide trends and current issues affecting suicide in Asia, how cultural factors may affect suicidality or how best to consider culture when working to prevent suicide. Please submit your questions on this topic for consideration to LIFE Communications at life@ontheline.org.au by Tuesday February 12. Š 2012 LIFE Communications. All rights reserved. LIFE Communications is a National Suicide Prevention Strategy project managed by On the Line on behalf of the Department of Health and Ageing.
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DATE:08/Feb/2013
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10/ NDIS:
National Disability Insurance Scheme Victorian Bulletin February 2013 From the Minister for Community Services, Mary Wooldridge Hello and welcome to the second electronic bulletin on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) from the Victorian Coalition Government. If you wish to receive future bulletins directly, please email NDIS@dhs.vic.gov.au.
Victoria on track to launch the NDIS on 1 July 2013 Significant work is happening to make the NDIS a reality in the Barwon area from July this year. Victoria has been working with the Commonwealth, people with disability, carers, families, and service providers to prepare for the Barwon area launch. We are also working across the full range of supports and services that people with disability might access – such as health, education and transport – to make sure that the NDIS works as well as it can. The Victorian Government signed a bilateral agreement with the Commonwealth on 7 December 2012. This important agreement identifies a number of areas that require additional work to make the NDIS a reality, including identifying how new and existing clients will transition to the NDIS, how their rights will be safeguarded under the scheme and how client data and information will be managed. Another key part of ensuring the smooth transition to the Barwon launch of the NDIS is managing how and when clients move from the Victorian service system to the NDIS. We are working to get people who live in the Barwon area supported by the NDIS as quickly as possible. The Victorian and Commonwealth Government have made arrangements so that around 4,000 people in the Barwon area will be supported under the NDIS in the first year, increasing to about 5,000 people by 2015-16. Victoria remains committed to working towards a sustainable full NDIS and considers the launch of the scheme in the Barwon area an important step towards improving support for people with disability, their families and carers.
NDIS legislation On 29 November 2012, the Commonwealth Government introduced the NDIS Bill to the Federal Parliament. A Senate Inquiry into the NDIS Bill has been established, and is due to provide its report to the Commonwealth Parliament on 13 March 2013. While the Bill addresses many of the concerns raised by Victoria during the drafting process, the Victorian Government has identified a number of outstanding issues in the Bill that should be resolved, including: the NDIS Bill should have as its starting point that people with disability can make their own decisions, with people supported to make decisions when they need it; red-tape should be removed for existing clients and those people that are clearly eligible for assistance under the scheme, so that clients have an easy pathway to NDIS supports; and the Launch Transition Agency should not be able to force a person to take legal action to recover the cost of the supports they need. The Victorian Government believes that the first priority should be on giving people the support that they need and, if there is a possibility of recovering the cost of NDIS supports (for example, if a person’s disability is a result of an accident that may entitle them to funding or compensation through other forms of insurance), then this should be pursued by the Scheme rather than an individual. The Senate Inquiry will host its only Victorian public hearing on the NDIS Bill in Geelong on 20 February 2013. Further details are available on the Senate Standing Committee on Community Affairs webpage. I have written to the Committee Secretary requesting that a second public hearing be held in Melbourne to enhance access for people with disability, their families and carers.
DATE:08/Feb/2013
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NDIS Rules While the Bill provides the ‘big picture’ of how the NDIS will operate, the NDIS Rules will contain the detail of how the scheme will actually work for people with disability. The NDIS Rules will provide more detail about the supports that people with disability might access under the scheme, what happens when an individual’s circumstances change, and how the rights of people with disability will be protected. On 1 February 2013, the Commonwealth released a public consultation paper on the NDIS Rules. The paper outlines what is intended to be covered in the NDIS Rules, and seeks feedback from potential participants of the scheme and other interested people. Victoria, along with the other states and territories, was provided with a draft of the consultation paper and has provided significant feedback. We are keen to ensure that: the rules do not result in a reduction in choice and control for people with disability in Victoria; rules relating to payments under the NDIS, provide a level of flexibility which is the same as that currently available to Victorians; and rules do not place increased burdens on people with disability, for example, by subjecting people to frequent and unnecessary reassessment. I would encourage you to provide your feedback on questions in the paper directly to the Commonwealth at: www.ndis.gov.au/towards/rules-consultation-paper.
NDIS stakeholder forum On Friday 8 February 2013, I will host an NDIS information forum for people with disability, their families and carers in the Barwon area. The forum will provide an opportunity for members of the community to find out more about the National Disability Insurance Scheme Bill 2012, and discuss the Bill and the NDIS Rules consultation paper. The forum will be held at the Barrabool Hills Centre, 4 - 34 Province Boulevard, Highton (Geelong) from 2.00 pm to 3.30 pm. Places at the forum are limited so please RSVP by emailing NDIS@dhs.vic.gov.au If you are unable to attend the forum, you can choose to receive copies of documents distributed at the forum via email. Hon Mary Wooldridge MP Minister for Community Services
Get involved
For more information and to contribute to the development of the NDIS visit:
The Department of Human Services website
Every Australian Counts
For more information about the legislation, see my recent media release
To provide your feedback on the NDIS legislation directly to the Commonwealth, visit the Senate Standing Committee on Community Affairs webpage
To provide your feedback on the NDIS Rules Consultation Paper directly to the Commonwealth, visit www.ndis.gov.au/towards/rules-consultation-paper Top
DATE:08/Feb/2013
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11/ CAN (Mental Health) Inc FYI:
CAN (Mental Health) Inc FYI February 2013 Hi Victoria Consumers Issues Conference - Social Inclusion - Is it a Myth or Reality? http://canmentalhealth.org.au In this Issue ...
2 Days Consumers Issues Conference Theme: Social Inclusion - Is it a Myth or Reality? Wednesday & Thursday 1st & 2nd May 2013 Aerial Function Centre Level 7, 235 Jones St, Ultimo
Keynote Speakers: Mrs Jackie Crowe (National Mental Health Commissioner) Mr Michael Burge (Consumer Consultant and Member of the Consumer Reference Group for the establishment of the new national mental health consumer peak body). Registration Fees: Unsalaried Consumers $145.00 Salaried Consumers $220.00 Carers $220.00 Service Providers: $285.00 Interested Others: $285.00 Stall Holders: $295.00 You can register online or alternatively if you require an invoice contact the CAN Office on 02 9114 8150. Registrations must be paid prior to attendance. Please Note: This conference is fully catered. Go to: http://canmentalhealth.org.au CAN (Mental Health) Inc Brookvale NSW 2100 6A/15 Orchard Rd, ph: +61 2 9114 8150
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DATE:08/Feb/2013
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12/ Paws for Purrfect Pet Therapy:
Hi Everyone, The start of the year has been a busy one for VMIAC when it comes to assistance with “pooch placement”. In these instances we turned to “Paws for Purrfect Patient Therapy”. In one case, we were contacted by a service who needed to admit a client for a hospital stay. The client was very concerned about their dog, in fact did not wish to be admitted to hospital at all if her dog could not be cared for. Naomi Snell stepped in, liaised with the service and ensured the dog’s welfare had a good outcome. Naomi Snell, a mental health educator, noticed people often had trouble finding someone to care for their pet while they receive the help they need. While some could turn to neighbours, family, friends or even boarding kennels to care for that nonhuman family member, people without these supports were forced to surrender their beloved pet. To ensure that didn't happen, Ms Snell launched her service a year ago, giving the mentally ill peace of mind that their furry friend was being cared for while they were in hospital and says "I saw a gap in the mental health service and that was the provision of care for pets," she said. "I wanted to set up a foster care program where we could care for their pets while they're away from home." The initiative, the first of its kind, also cares for pets of people experiencing homelessness or escaping domestic violence. Ms Snell said being able to reunite people with their pets was most rewarding. "There's always immense gratitude. For a lot of clients it's their only avenue of support. It's a family member for them," she said. "We fostered for one guy who was in hospital for a long period and now his goal is to become a foster carer for others put in the same situation." The not-for-profit organisation is looking for support. "We need corporate sponsors and donations of quality pet food." Excerpt from Maroondah Weekly article. If you think you could help support Naomi with this wonderful community minded effort, donating a little or a lot will make a huge difference. Maybe you’d like to become a volunteer????? Naomi welcomes all enquiries so visit paws4pettherapy.org or call her on 0452 661 726 Donations to Paws For Purrfect Patient (Pet) Therapy can be made via electronic bank transfer. Account details : Paws For Purrfect Patient Therapy (Commonwealth Bank Account) BSB 063-199
Account number 1038 6998
VMIAC will take cash donations at our office and pass on. VMIAC recognises the important role our pets play in our wellbeing and recovery and we commend the valuable role this service is operating .
Naomi Snell and pooch Top
DATE:08/Feb/2013
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13/ SARDAA NEWSLETTER (USA):
February, 2013
SARDAA Newsletter
MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR February brings various activities and opportunities from cheering your favorite team in the Super Bowl to celebrating the birth of some of our nation's leaders to expressing our love and admiration. We admire the many wonderful people who share their stories of challenges, successes and progress. Personal stories offer hope and encouragement to others who might believe they are the only ones grappling with similar challenges and think there is little they can do to improve their situation. We admire the many heroic works by so many very brave people. Thank you! Thank you to the many supporters who make it possible to educate, provide support and hope to millions. We welcome the growth and expansion of SARDAA. We are partnering with more organizations and people who, like SARDAA, work diligently to improve lives affected by schizophrenia-related disorders. We are so very grateful for the volunteer staff and welcome our new staff members Joe Green a Fellow with "The Mission Continues" (missioncontinues.org) and Margery Wakefield, Administrative Assistant. Carmen Hedley, Anna Gardner and Jill Moran have been outstanding, dedicated and consistently working to provide service and education to professionals, consumers and the public. Our sponsors have helped us improve lives affected by schizophrenia-related disorders. One such sponsor is Entertainment Cruise Productions. The winners of the Smooth Jazz Cruise package tell of their amazing experience below. This Valentine's Day, please show your love to the millions of people affected by schizophrenia-related disorders by donating today to SARDAA Donate Today Linda Stalters, MSN SARDAA Executive Director MESSAGE FROM SA CO-ADMINISTRATOR The Importance of Staying on My Medication The first time I received anti-psychotic medication was when it was forced upon me when I was literally out of my mind and was secluded in the "Quiet Room" of a private hospital. I was physically pinned down while a nurse gave me an injection of Thorzine in my rear. I was bare except for a johnny coat. I was in that room for 3 days while getting injections at various intervals. Slowly, I started to come around. The Thorzine was taking effect. Soon after, I was given a room with others. I started to feel Read More Jim C SA Co-Administrator FAMILY AND FRIENDS LEADER MESSAGE As I sit here and contemplate my monthly message, my 29-year old son is sitting beside me and I am feeling an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude. Only 6 months ago, my son, my first born, was constantly talking to himself, in a paranoid, psychotic state and spent the entire summer in the hospital. Today he is a completely different person. He no longer talks to himself, he smiles, he's affectionate, he spends time with his father and brothers and he seems to be finding his way back to life, slowly, one day at a time. These last few years were like a never-ending
DATE:08/Feb/2013
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ISSUE:69
nightmare. I was trapped inside my pain and felt as if something was tearing at my insides; we were at the point where we almost lost hope. The journey of recovery has been a slow process but I am learning to never lose hope and to continue to care for myself along the way. The strength I need to recover, I draw from my fellow callers on Tuesday evenings. I realize I will never be completely free from pain and fear, and will never achieve perfect harmony or serenity, but sharing my fears and challenges with friends in FFS gives me strength and clarity. I have learned to settle for gradual progress, punctuated occasionally by setbacks. I have begun to abandon my old attitude of "all or nothing." Faith and acceptance are the keys to my recovery to the whole of my emotional being. Thank you to my Tuesday night friends for holding my hand through difficult times, sharing my tears and rejoicing in my success! Until next month, Susan Sheena, FFS Leader
ARTICLES OF INTEREST CONSUMER CONTRIBUTION One day, I went away for a long time and I thought there was no turning back. I left my family, my friends my job, my support. I moved my business all the way to rehab. It was like an angel was calling me but didn't leave a message. So I walked, talked, ate, and just kept going on with my own business. Whatever the business was caused me to become delirious. After causing me to become delirious I found my way in the brinks of hospitals, institutions, jails and death in the midst of my journey. Read More Smooth Jazz Cruise When we won our bid on the Smooth Jazz Cruise package at SARDAA's live auction during the fundraising gala last September, we really didn't have a clear idea of what was involved. We assumed that it would be like other cruises we'd been on, with shows by various artists in the evening and the remainder of the day left to normal cruise activities. Read More Fifty Year Anniversary Fifty years ago, President John F. Kennedy called for a national community health system. Dr. E. Fuller Torrey, founder of Treatment Advocacy Center, has described what followed in a Wall Street Journal op-ed entitled "Fifty Years of Failing America's Mentally Ill." Read More Dental Conditions in Inpatients With Schizophrenia Patients with schizophrenia visit dentists less frequently, compared to healthy people, because of their difficult financial conditions and a lack of motivation in the maintenance of dental hygiene due to the illness. Read More Repairing the Mental Health System It seems like every week we hear about another psychiatric hospital or unit closing its doors, or another state cutting mental health care funding. Read More Some Kids 'Age Out' of Autism Some children with an accurate diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may eventually "outgrow" the diagnosis and have normal levels of overall functioning. Read More Visualizing Schizophrenia The goal is to create disease-specific atlases of the brain that can aid in the diagnosis, treatment and possible prevention of illnesses like schizophrenia. Read More
DATE:08/Feb/2013
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Lithium: How Good is it? Many people worry that lithium is one of psychiatry's "Big Guns", something we use for patients with really severe mental illnesses. Read More Focus on Mental Health Laws to Curb Violence Is Unfair, Some Say In their fervor to take action against gun violence after the shooting in Newtown, Conn., a growing number of state and national politicians are promoting a focus on mental illness as a way to help prevent further killings. Read More Cannabis Use and Depression While there is increasing evidence on the association between cannabis use and psychotic outcomes, it is still unclear whether this also applies to other psychiatric disorders, especially depression. Several clinical studies and case reports have found Read More
RAPID ANTIDEPRESSANT EFFECTS OF KETAMINE Individuals who have been diagnosed with major depression may be able to participate in a trial designed to understand the causes of depression and rapid antidepressant response. Specifically, NIMH is testing whether ketamine, a drug that affects glutamate in the brain, will improve symptoms of depression within a matter of hours. Read More The NIHM Genetic Study of Schizophrenia Individuals 18 years old or older diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizo-affective disorder (depressed type) may be able to participate in a genetic study that looks for genes in families. Read More NATIONWIDE RECRUITMENT: BIPOLAR DISORDER PEDIATRIC RESEARCH STUDY Clinical Trial of Citalopram and Methylphenidate in Severe Mood Dysregulation: This study is testing the effectiveness of methylphenidate plus citalopram vs. methylphenidate plus placebo for decreasing irritability in children with severe mood dysregulation (SMD). Read More Sincerely, Anna Barker, SARDAA Webmaster and Social Media Manager Joe Green, The Mission Continues Fellow AND Linda Stalters. SARDAA Executive Director and Founder.
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DATE:08/Feb/2013
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14/ Free Public Talk on Recovery: Hi everyone, I'm giving a free public talk on the 18th February:
Is Recovery Enough? Indigo Daya Cost: Free entry When: 5.30pm, Monday 18 Feb Where: Ross House, 247 Flinders Lane, Melbourne For: All welcome. Should be of interest to consumers, mental health workers & carers/friends/family The talk will explore my personal recovery experiences in terms of how the concept of recovery was helpful, and ways in which it was not enough. I'll look at the idea of transformation as the next evolution from recovery. There will also be time for Q&A, networking and discussion. The flyer is attached, and this is a link to the website registration page. Indigo _____________________________________________________________ Recent articles and writing 2013 Training calendar _____________________________________________________________ Indigo Daya
Consumer-Informed Mental Health Services Training, Speaking, Consultancy & Resources e w p
indigo@indigodaya.com www.indigodaya.com 0400 404 829
Please note that email is the fastest way to reach me as I am often busy in talks, training or meetings.
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DATE:08/Feb/2013
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15/ Age Newspaper: No Help for the Mentally Ill facing Court Charges:
No help for the mentally ill facing court charges Date February 8, 2013 Henrietta Cook
VICTORIA'S forensic mental health institute will suspend assessments of people in court and close 16 hospital beds for the criminally insane as it grapples with budget cuts. The Victorian Institute of Forensic Mental Health, known as Forensicare, said it had been forced to slash services as a result of the Commonwealth's $107 million cuts to Victoria's health system. Forensicare has suspended its court liaison services until June 30, which could lead to more mentally ill offenders being sent to prison and costly delays in the Magistrates Court. Cases could be adjourned while mentally ill offenders navigate overstretched mainstream mental health services in the hope of being assessed. Forensicare chief executive Tom Dalton said the cuts, which were announced in the middle of a budget cycle, had placed an ''enormous strain'' on the institute. ''Forensicare is the sole provider of these services in Victoria and these are not decisions that our council has taken lightly. At the forefront of Forensicare's function is that of community safety.'' The institute will gradually close 16 of 116 beds at the Thomas Embling Hospital in Fairfield, which treats mentally ill people in the criminal justice system who need acute psychiatric care and treatment, as well as those who have been found not guilty of crimes due to mental impairment. ''The ultimate loss of beds will require close planning, as it comes at a time when there is unprecedented growth in demand for inpatient admissions from the criminal justice system,'' Mr Dalton said. Chief Magistrate Peter Lauritsen said Forensicare's court liaison service helped magistrates deal with mentally ill offenders. ''We are currently working with Forensicare to examine options for dealing with this situation until the service is able to resume,'' he said. The hospital's Jardine unit, where involuntary residents prepare for their release and a double homicide occurred in 2009, is set to be converted into a less secure ''intensive community transitional support'' unit for voluntary patients. In order to cut costs, there will also be a reduction in training opportunities for staff, who work with some of the state's most dangerous patients. There have been three deaths at the high-security Thomas Embling Hospital in just over three years. In 2009, two men were stabbed to death in the Jardine unit, and in December a patient died after he was strangled. The chair of the faculty of forensic psychiatry at the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, Dr Ness McVie, said reducing secure beds could put the community at risk because more mentally ill offenders would be sent to jail without treatment. ''If people are released from jail without treatment and their illness continues, they are at the same risk of reoffending. People who go through the mental health system instead of jail have a much lower rate of recidivism,'' she said. The director of Monash University's Centre for Forensic Behavioural Science, James Ogloff, said the cuts were disheartening and would lead to costly delays in court.
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''Mentally ill offenders before court will not receive adequate attention and care. If they are not remanded and expected to go to mental health services for assessment, they pose a possible risk to themselves or others in the community,'' he said. A spokesman for state Mental Health Minister Mary Wooldridge said Forensicare's move was a result of the federal government's cuts. But a spokesman for federal Health Minister Tanya Plibersek said the Victorian government was responsible for any cuts to the state's health system. hcook@theage.com.au Read more: http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/no-help-for-the-mentally-ill-facing-court-charges-201302072e1cy.html#ixzz2KGb8ci43
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DATE:08/Feb/2013
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16/ Survey on increasing employment prospects :
Dear members, supporters and friends, The Australian Government has released a discussion paper about employment. They want to know people's thoughts on a number of questions about how to encourage employers to improve employment for people with disabilities. The discussion paper and information about it is at http://deewr.gov.au/increasing-employment-opportunities-people-disability Deaf Australia has adapted the questions for deaf people and created a survey. Your input is much appreciated and will help us to make sure Deaf people's views are communicated to Government. Please take a few moments to tell us what you think about these issues. The survey is at www.surveymonkey.com/s/WK2Q28F Thank you very much for your input and support. Karen Lloyd AM Executive Officer Deaf Australia Inc E: karen.lloyd@deafau.org.au; TTY: 07 3357 8277; Voice: 07 3357 8266; F: 07 3357 8377 Postal: PO Box 1083 Stafford Qld 4053; Office: 271A Stafford Rd, Stafford Qld 4053 Web: www.deafau.org.au
Top The email is sent every week and contains items which may interest mental health consumers, carers and service providers and which otherwise they may not be able to access. Thank you for subscribing to this VMIAC email if you wish to unsubscribe please contact info@vmiac.org.au Bill Moon or Dominic Troughton Information Officer Victorian Mental Illness Awareness Council Tel (03)9380 3900 http://www.vmiac.org.au/ This message is intended for the addressee and may contain confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete this message and notify the sender. Views expressed are those of the document initiator/writer, and are not necessarily the views of the Victorian Mental Illness Awareness Council.
DATE:08/Feb/2013
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