MINFQ Northern Voices Newsletter - 2015 4th Quarter by Mental Illness Fellowship NQ Inc.

Mental Illness Fellowship NQ Inc

ISSUE: 4TH QUARTER 2015

The Mental Illness Fellowship Australia Meets In Townsville Jeremy Audas / 25 November 2015

MIFNQ is a member of the Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia, or MIFA as it is known. As a group of long-standing membership based organisations, MIFA members currently have more than 80 ‘front doors’ across Australia. We are building a national network that delivers local solutions based on our common strengths which are: 

We know from experience that recovery of a better quality of life is possible for everyone affected by mental illness

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We work with and alongside participants and members of our organisations in every program, whether as staff, managers, peers, volunteers or board members

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Peers—consumers, carers, families, friends—are at the heart of all our program design, governance, delivery and evaluation—and our services are better for that

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We work closely with families, carers and friends as well as the person with a mental illness, including those who are hard to reach

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Our objectives are holistic -- we work to assist individuals and families in their journey to recover mental health, physical health, social connectedness and equal opportunity in all aspects of life.

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We educate and advocate to help build a community where people with mental illness are accepted and valued, and where carers are supported and validated

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Our national federation strengthens all of us in our efforts to be innovative and reflective in all of our practices -- and to become well-enough known to ensure no-one misses out on available help

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We give priority to persuading funders, policy makers, politicians and potential corporate sponsors to invest in community resources which reflect these common strengths

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We don’t do it all, nor do we want to – our collaborations with other service providers ensure that our front doors will always lead to the best local services

59A Cambridge Street Vincent QLD 4814 PO Box 979 Aitkenvale QLD 4814 Tel: (07) 4725 3664 Fax: (07) 4725 3819 Free Call 1800 985 944 Email: townsville@mifnq.org.au www.mifnq.org.au MIFNQ reserves the right to edit articles for publication. The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of MIFNQ

MIFA gives an Australian voice to international mental health networks – we are members of the World Federation for Mental Health and the World Fellowship of Schizophrenia and Allied Disorders and we have links with the US National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

Continues next page

Happy Holidays

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Continued from previous page

White Ribbon Day In mid-November, MIFA board members and CEOs from around Australia met in Townsville for the MIFA AGM, board, CEO and combined meetings. It was wonderful to host these meetings in partnership with SOLAS and to be able to have our valued members come to North Queensland.

The MIFA board and CEOs shared dinner at MIFNQâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Cambridge St building and enjoyed the company of colleagues. MIFA board and CEO meetings occur regularly by teleconference with several face to face meetings each year. As one of the founding members of MIFA, MIFNQ took great pleasure in reconnecting with our friends from around the country.

Dinner at Townsville Mental Health Hub

The MIFA family:-

Wendy Woods provided live music for the evening

Jeremy Audas / 25 November 2015

Wednesday 25th November 2015 is White Ribbon Day. The violence perpetrated by men against women must stop and it is up to men to stop it. The victims are not merely statistics; they are wives, sisters, mothers, daughters and friends. Good men cannot and will not sit on the sidelines while those they love are at risk of harm. The White Ribbon Campaign is about recognising the positive role that men play in preventing violence against women. It fosters and encourages male leadership in the prevention of violence against women, based on the understanding that most men are not violent. The Campaign is a means for men to speak out against violence against women, and to safely and effectively challenge the attitudes and behaviours of a minority of men who use or condone violence against women. White Ribbon Australia believes in the capacity of the individual to change and to encourage change in others. Our generation can and must work towards stopping violence against women so that all women can live in safety, free from violence and abuse. The prevention of violence against women will change society for the better.

MIFNQ CEO, Jeremy Audas

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In This Edition

Where to Go for Help

The Mental Illness Fellowship Australia Meets In Townsville ...............1 Office Closure ..............................................................................................................3 CEO’s Update ...............................................................................................................4 Committee Chatter ...................................................................................................5 President .......................................................................................................................5 The Ripple Effect .......................................................................................................6 A Warm Welcome To Our Newest Staff Member ........................................7 2016 Mental Health First Aid Courses .............................................................8 My Journey ...................................................................................................................9 Queensland Early Transition To The NDIS ................................................. 10 Cyclone Season Preparedness ........................................................................... 11 Christmas Day Lunch ........................................................................................... 12 Australia’s Mental Health Plan Contains ‘Potential Pitfalls’ ............... 13 Cairns’ $10 Million Mental Health Facility Welcomes First Residents .................................................................................................................... 14 Mental Health Blueprint: Promoting Technology To Close Treatment Gap For Mental Issues In Australia ......................................... 15 Mental Health Risk For New Dads .................................................................. 16 Peer Support Forums............................................................................................ 16 Calendar of Events – DECEMBER 2015 & JANUARY 2016 ................... 17 Coffee Break ............................................................................................................. 18 Mi Networks AUSTRALIA.................................................................................... 19 Membership Application Form ........................................................................ 20

Office Closure

Happy Holidays Wishing you a safe, happy & peaceful festive season

Our office will close on Wednesday 23rd December 2015

And re-open on Monday 4th January 2016

anuary 2016

Kids Helpline

CHAT ONLINE

Free, private & confidential telephone & online counseling service specifically for young people aged between 5 and 25.

Phone 24/7 - 1800 55 1800 Eheadspace

CHAT ONLINE

Provides online & telephone support and counseling to young people aged between 12 and 25. Available 9AM-1AM AEST

Phone 1800 650 890 Lifeline

CHAT ONLINE

24 hour crisis support. Online counselling available 8AM midnight.

Phone 13 11 14

REACH Program Caitlin Duffy / 16 November 2015

MIFNQ’s Kerri Harris and Caitlin Duffy have been facilitating the nine-week Black Dog Institute’s REACH program since October, with the program set to finish up in December. REACH is a psychoeducational wellbeing group specifically designed for individuals who have a diagnosis of a mood disorder (depression or bipolar disorder). Our group is working really hard towards developing some positive life skills that will assist with preventing or reducing relapse. So far, we have had 100% attendance to all group sessions, and the group has expressed enjoying the program content, which included mindfulness, problem-solving, and developing a ‘wellbeing plan’. Keep your eye out for the next REACH program which will be run in early 2016.

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CEO’s Update Where did the year go? As we approach the end of 2015 it is time to draw breath and reflect on the achievements of the last twelve months. All of us have been working exceptionally hard to deliver a wide range of programs and activities to people who need them most and we all see the benefits of our efforts on a daily basis. Whether it is welcoming new members into our wonderful Clubhouses in Townsville, Cairns and Mackay or engaging with community partners or advocating for family members impacted by mental illness our high quality work shines through. In the last twelve months we have settled into the new Townsville Mental Health Community Hub and have had about 160 bookings for workshops, conferences, seminars and support groups in that period. Ranging from the Townsville Suicide Prevention Network to training by the Black Dog Institute and meetings of the Jeremy Audas, Australian Psychological Society the Community Mental Health Hub in Cambridge Street has CEO certainly been a focus for mental health activity in Townsville. Further afield in Cairns and Mackay it has been equally busy with much work going on behind the scenes to engage further with people who use our services and our community partners. This is particularly true for the Junction and Horizon Clubhouses that have increased their membership and developed strong partnerships in their local communities so that they are increasingly been seen as an integral part of the community with strong connections that benefit not only Clubhouse members but the communities in which they live. Nicola Orchard, Mackay Area Manager, has been instrumental in developing important relationships with stakeholders and engendered much respect for MIFNQ’s work in Mackay, including driving support for the very successful inaugural Mental Health Fair held in Mental Health week in October. MIFNQ works across a whole range of issues that impact on people with a mental illness and their family members, whether it’s housing and accommodation, advocacy, employment activity or early intervention and prevention through our education programs, many people have benefited from MIFNQ’s presence. More than that though is the constant striving to do things better, to lead the way in our communities so that more people benefit from MIFNQ services. Since the last newsletter we have commenced a pilot program funded by the Department of Veterans Affairs in partnership with Mates 4 Mates and SOLAS. This peer mentoring program will be closely watched as ex defence personnel with a lived experience of mental distress are matched with trained peers to receive mentoring support to aid their recovery. This cohort of people has been neglected for far too long and it is hoped the success of the pilot will lead to greater support in the future for those who have served their country in the armed forces. This initiative will be officially launched in Townsville by the Minister for Veterans Affairs early in the New Year. Others who are living in dire and stressful circumstances are those who live in drought affected areas of Queensland and MIFNQ is very grateful for receipt of additional funds to continue drought assistance wellbeing work in Flinders, Etheridge, Croydon, Mareeba, Hinchinbrook and Charters Towers local government areas. Typically, as we prefer, these services are delivered in partnership with other agencies including Relationships Australia, RFDS, Centacare, and our friends at SOLAS. In fact MIFNQ and SOLAS have recently opened an office in Charters Towers for the purpose of providing a base for our drought assistance work. Townsville Area Manager, Alison Fairleigh has been a driving force behind the roll out of drought assistance work in rural and remote locations with strong support from other MIFNQ staff. MIFNQ has developed increasingly important relationships with the major hospitals in Townsville, Cairns and Mackay and continues to assist people both in hospital and on discharge to support their transition from acute to community settings. We know this is very important work as we have seen some great successes in the Mackay Transitional Recovery Service where a MIFNQ outreach team supports people as they return to live in the community and get on with their lives. In Cairns an important mental health forum was held in mid-December with the aim of improving services in a coordinated and strategic way, this has been led by Bernie Triggs, Cairns Area Manager, who has really pressed home the need to work together to create positive outcomes for people. We should also congratulate our leadership team who attended a program of professional development – People Centred Leadership. This program, run over six months has provided MIFNQ leaders with skills, knowledge and capability to support their staff and understand their own capabilities. MIFNQ continues to review and revise its clinical governance to ensure that it is of contemporary standard and creates a safe and effective framework for MIFNQ’s professional staff. Barbara Anderson continues to monitor, evaluate and improve this area in consultation with staff across our three sites. Philippa Harris, Director of Education Services continues to support all of us in one way or another and contributes a lot of time and energy to build our capacity as a leader in community education. Furthermore Philippa was a nominee for the Senior Australian of the Year for her many years of work in the mental health field. In the next newsletter I hope to be able to provide an update about our somewhat uncertain future as new state and federal mental health reform initiatives are implemented. Unfortunately even now we still have little information about what this might mean for MIFNQ, the people it serves and the communities it operates in. In the meantime we welcome these reforms in principle and in particular the role of the new Primary Health Network in bringing about improvements in the lives of people impacted by mental illness. Finally, I wish you all, MIFNQ staff, people who access our services and our community partners a relaxing and refreshing break over the festive season and look forward to what promises to be another year of hard work, great outcomes and strengthened relationships in 2016. Warm regards,

Jeremy Audas , Chief Executive Officer

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Committee Chatter Christmas and New Year are like turning over a new page in a big book – more than just a page – it’s like starting a new chapter. For some people it is like starting a whole new book. Why? Because, everything shuts down. School is out two weeks before and doesn’t open again for another four weeks. Many [maybe most] workplaces shut down at least for a week – some for two or more weeks. Some of us never return, as we move on from school, job or town. We leave our schools and workplaces, perhaps have a drink or celebration with our peers, wish each other ‘Happy Holidays’ or Merry Christmas’ and probably also ‘Happy New Year’. Most of us go into some sort of summer holiday limbo, an ‘in-between’ state, sandwiched between one year and the next. We can become a little bit ‘hedonistic’ – we might think mainly of enjoying ourselves and we may live in the moment we are in right ‘now’ – free of the obligations of work and school. This is probably not such a bad thing to do occasionally. But it can be good to be a little less self-centred – thinking the thoughts usually pushed aside in the busy-ness of life – perhaps about aspects of ourselves or our community – our country or our world that could and maybe should be better than they are. Christmas can be a time of charity of thought and action, and a time for new plans for ourselves and our communities. Hopefully we meet up with family and friends for some parties, particularly on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve, and we celebrate the passing of the old year – our survival of it – and welcome the arrival of the new, better year. This time can be difficult for some people, particularly those without loving family and friends with whom to share this time when all life’s normal distractions ‘shut down’. Perhaps we could keep our self-centred thoughts on hold, at least until the ‘shut down’, so we can think about who we might invite to share our holiday celebrations, or at least how we might help reduce the loneliness of this shutdown time for those who perhaps lack the festivities and the friends with which to celebrate. Perhaps we could attend one of the events for the homeless, such as the Christmas day lunch at Strand Park, for those who have no place or people to celebrate with, or maybe make a donation of food, clothing, presents, services [haircutting is one suggestion] by ringing 0448 193048 or just turning up for some chat and play. And for your Fellowship - what is on the next page, in the next chapter? We started last year moving into our wonderful new home – the centre not only of our Fellowship, but of community mental health in our city and region. We ended the year by last month hosting our national Board for their AGM – showing off to all our ‘sister’ Fellowships from all over Australia our new home and our increasingly visible role as THE place to start when looking for community mental health support. Next year, the focus will be on sustainability – firstly strengthening our core structures, finances and organisation around the core beliefs and objectives we have always had, and secondly, on growing our reach further into our communities, which will of course also strengthen us in these times of ‘competition’ from profit-making and other ‘rivals’. It is a shame to have to think of ‘competition’ and ‘rivals’, but one sad effect of funding changes is that there is money to be made from supporting people with mental health issues, so profiteers are emerging to make money rather than to do what fellowships do – to help our own people to help themselves, with not profit incentive, because THEY ARE US. So, at this time of year, we should remember who we are, where our little Fellowship came from, who we support and how we might continue and improve and grow our support to our people. And say “thank you” to all who have done good things, and “Seasons Greetings” to all. Warm regards,

Bob James President

Bob James, President

MIFNQ Management Committee President

Bob James

Vice-President

Karyn Weller

Secretary

Helen DeCampo

Treasurer

Sandra Hubert

Committee Members

Alf Musumeci John Moore

Promoting Recovery Through Services in the Community

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The Ripple Effect Alison Fairleigh / 24 November 2015

The Ripple Effect, a collaborative digital project spearheaded by farmers, health professionals and advocacy groups is inviting farmers to share their personal stories of suicide through a unique postcard initiative. Farmers are being invited to provide input about their personal experiences of suicide in the Ripple Effect—a project where farmers are helping farmers beat rural suicide. Victorian Farmer Nick Shady knows all too well the need for a new approach to dealing with the Ripple Effect of mental illness in rural communities. “I know there’s a lot of talk about how rural men don’t open up and can’t open up and don’t see a forum where they can. That’s the hard part; how do we reach people who feel like that, before it’s too late,” Nick said. Nick is now a member of the Ripple Effect Steering Group, a project he feels passionate about. “We believe that by involving farming communities we can help turn the negative ripple of suicide into a positive ripple of support. To get this ripple started, we are calling on farmers to tell their story as a way to help others in similar circumstances.” Katrina Myers, from Barham in New South Wales shares this sentiment. “I’ve seen so many examples of where people who have personal lived experiences can make a really big difference and so I feel like there is that opportunity to do that. “We are asking people from the rural farming community to share one thing about their experience of suicide that might be helpful to other people in the same boat. All they need to do is fill in and return a Ripple Effect postcard. What would you want to tell someone who might be going through a tough time? What advice would you give them? It’s about helping each other turn the tide and learning from other people in the farming community. The postcards are anonymous and postage paid. It’s a simple process, but one that can potentially make a real difference to someone’s life. The messages from the postcards will be collected and shared as part of the Ripple Effect website. People will be able to share their stories of what has helped them, learn from others and take action to make positive changes to their own health and wellbeing. Alison Fairleigh from the Mental Illness Fellowship of North Queensland—a Ripple Effect partner organisation—explained one of the ideas behind the postcards. “We understand that rural communities experience severe disadvantage when it comes to internet speed and connectivity, so we want to provide an opportunity for people to contribute to a positive ripple of support both on and offline.” “The Ripple Effect is about farmers helping farmers. We know through our own experience, that no one tells a story about life on the land, its ups and its downs better than farmers themselves. We also know that people in farming communities are renowned for helping each other—that’s what keeps small communities alive. The Ripple Effect postcards combine the strength of storytelling with rural people’s natural enthusiasm for supporting each other,” Ms Fairleigh said. The Ripple Effect is a partnership between, National Centre for Farmer Health, Deakin University, Sandpit, Victorian Farmers Federation, AgChatOz, Mental Health Fellowship North Queensland and Western District Health Service. The Ripple Effect is funded by beyondblue through donations from the Movember foundation. To request a postcard, find out more information about the Ripple Effect postcards or add your name to our contact list, please visit http://www.therippleeffect.com.au or phone the National Centre for Farmer Health on (03) 5551 8533.

Philippa Harris Queensland Australian Of The Year Finalist Philippa Harris / 17 November 2015

As a Mental Health Nurse, when Philippa Harris moved to Townsville in 1990 she was deeply disturbed by the human rights abuses of people with mental illness that had taken place at Townsville Hospital over the previous decade. She determined to humanise mental health and show that recovery was possible. As program co-ordinator of the Mental Illness Fellowship of NQ she secured funding for a range of education and support services offered by the fledgling organisation. She rose to the position of chief executive before stepping down in 2008 to focus on community education, and has delivered mental health education courses to tens of thousands of adults and students to counter myths and misunderstandings about mental illness and to encourage early recognition and help seeking as a pathway to recovery. Philippa and husband Graeme flew to Brisbane for the Award ceremony on 30 October, where she was presented with a Certificate by Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk. Other finalists in the Senior category were Col Reynolds (who has raised $27m for children’s cancer research) Tim Fairfax (who has donated $16m to rural and remote community projects) and Nerida Egan (for her work with Aussie helpers). The eventual winner was Tim Fairfax.

Premier presents Harris

Annastacia Palaszczuk certificate to Philippa

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A Warm Welcome To Our Newest Staff Member Alison Fairleigh / 2 December 2015

We are thrilled to introduce our newest member of staff to the MIFNQ Townsville office – Phillip Thompson:

Townsville Community Suicide Prevention Network Alison Fairleigh / 8 July 2015

“My name is Phillip Thompson and I am the Programme and Service Integration Coordinator for the Peer to Peer Support Network Pilot Programme for the Mental Illness Fellowship North Queensland Inc. I enlisted in the military in early 2006 where I was posted to the 1st Battalion Royal Australian Regiment as a young, keen 18 year old. I got my first taste of operational life in Charlie Company 9 platoon in East Timor 2007. East Timor started and moulded my drive to achieve all I could be within the Battalion due to the great leadership and professionalism all-round. In 2009, as a young 21 year old, I deployed to Afghanistan which is still the highlight of my life. I was wounded in action by an Improvised Explosive Device which resulted in my medical evacuation back to Australia with severe hearing and memory loss. I subsequently developed and was diagnosed with chronic Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and a Traumatic Brain Injury. I battled on a roller-coaster of mental health for quite a while, even trying to take my own life on more than one occasion. I believe I have now come ‘full circle’ with regards to my injuries. I am active within the community where I speak to current and ex-service veterans about mental health and the outcomes we can achieve if we all work together. I find that ‘younger aged’ veterans or non-veterans in the same age bracket with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder are very receptive to my story due to my age and experiences. I am a ‘Contemporary-aged Veteran’ and for the last five years I have been working and helping wounded / ill ex-servicemen and women gain their full life’s potential. I competed and spoke at Prince Harry’s Inaugural Invictus Games in London 2014 where I placed 4th in the powerlifting. Multiple speaking events have come from this back in Australia. My passion for helping people with a mental illness led me to email certain organisations, where some wrote back some didn’t but one in particular did. That was MIFNQ; I arranged a meeting and told my story and explained how I can and would like to help within the community due to my age and lived experience. I was not aware of the pilot programme at this stage, I just wanted to give back to the community anyway I could. After a couple of meetings I became aware this wasn’t just another organisation, this was a family who actually cared. I knew this was the place for me and I am very happy to be a part of the MIFNQ family. I was nominated for the 2016 Young Australian of the Year for my efforts in volunteering and helping with veterans and veteran family needs. I’m happy to discuss any questions about my time as an athlete, on deployments, rehabilitation and mental health issues with you at any stage.”

With the support of Wesley LifeForce, a Suicide Prevention Network has been started in Townsville. Wesley LifeForce has established suicide prevention networks in a wide variety of community settings throughout Australia, from urban centres to remote Aboriginal communities. A suicide prevention network, addressing the specific needs of a local area, is one of the most effective ways of raising community awareness of the issue of suicide at the same time as empowering its members to develop appropriate suicide prevention strategies at a grassroots level. The next meeting of the Townsville Community Suicide Prevention Network: Date: Tuesday 22nd December 2015 Time: 2.30pm-4.30pm Venue: Mental Illness Fellowship North Queensland 59A Cambridge Street, Vincent (Cnr. Cambridge & Palmerston Streets)

PThompson@mifnq.org.au

Afternoon tea provided & all are welcome!!

(07) 4725 3664

Meetings are held the

** If you have been affected by anything in this story, please contact one of the following support lines:

4th Tuesday of every month

Lifeline: 13 11 14 www.lifeline.org.au Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service: 1800 011 046 MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78 www.mensline.org.au Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 (24/7 crisis support) www.kidshelp.com.au

2:30pm at MINFQ, Cambridge Street. Vincent.

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2016 Mental Health First Aid Courses Philippa Harris / 2 December 2015

2015 MHFA Courses Overview: Number of courses held 10 Number of Participants 139 Since Accreditation was introduced in July this year, 48 participants have become Accredited MHFAiders and are confidently able to offer mental health information, support and assistance to friends, family, colleagues and the broader Townsville community. Accreditation is valid for 3 years at which time Accredited MHFAiders can take a short refresher course and online exam to maintain their accreditation. MHFA Courses planned in 2016: Standard MHFA 24th & 25th February Med Students MHFA 12th & 13th March 9th & 10th April Standard MHFA 20th & 21st April Med Students MHFA 9th & 17th May Standard MHFA 13th & 14th July 24th & 25th August 19th & 20th October Note: Standard Course is open to anyone, but Med Student course is only open to current Medical Students and Interns. Participation in the Standard Course costs $125 per person, inclusive of Manual, local resources and refreshments. A real bargain for 12 hours top class training, plus Accreditation to participants who successfully complete the on-line exam. Additional courses, tailored to workplaces and groups are available on request.

Out & About With Glenda Glenda Blackwell / 4 December 2015

This year has been extremely busy for me. I travel to Ayr on a Monday and Charters Towers on a Friday connecting with local families who care for a loved one with mental distress. Appointments can be made by calling MIFNQ reception on 472534664. I recently attended training in Cairns with Peter Bullimore around working with people who hear voices People from services from Mackay to Cairns attended. Rufus May, who was in Townsville earlier this year, may be in Australia next year as well. For those of you who may be interested, we have the Hearing Voices Support Group fortnightly on Wednesday evenings from 5.30pm at our office. For enquiries call 4725 3664. I also attended the Here 4 Life event held in Townsville on Saturday November 21st. The purpose of the day was around awareness of youth suicide. I was able to help in the Listening Room, along with staff from SOLAS and members from our Inspire Clubhouse. It was a great day, speaking with many people.

Hearing Voices Townsville Support Group www.hearingvoicesqld.org

Every 2nd & 4th Wednesday - 5.30pm to 7.00pm 59A Cambridge Street, Vincent Next Group â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 23rd December 2015

Emeritus Professor Judy Atkinson

It was a wonderful experience to attend an informative talk by Emeritus Professor Judy Atkinson held at the Salvation Army in Townsville. Professor Atkinson was talking on Indigenous Trauma and Healing, covering grief and loss and trauma reactions, sharing stories and how professionals can help.

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My Journey

Horizon Clubhouse Member / 18 November 2015

It all started when I was a young boy. I was always different from everyone else around me; I struggled to find my place in the world. I suffered greatly with my mental illness, though I was always looked after & I’ll always be forever grateful to my grandparents for that, especially my grandmother. My curiosity with life & different things either helped or hindered me at times. I was treated differently because I was seen as an easy target, so I wouldn’t defend myself. I only started to find myself more once I turned 13 years old. I still wasn’t sure about some things to do with myself, though I had my own mental health problems that made my life troublesome at times. Life was also shielded from me so I wouldn’t be hurt or impacted by my stupidity. I had great role models that taught me right from wrong. I struggled showing what I was taught in my actions from time to time as a teenager, as I didn’t understand how to deal with my emotions effectively without reacting. I finally got to 18 & then because I had moved interstate to live with other family, a whole new set of problems occurred & made things a little more difficult for me. I gradually made some friendships though I realized after a year to 3 years what true friendship is. I had one friend my childhood who I was friends with for 15 years though it had its struggles, it sadly ended not on bad terms just for no reason at all & I’m happy about that as it has freed me up for my future. So I tried my hardest to get true, genuine friendships over many years though I never found good long lasting friendships that would last till the end of time. I have done so many stupid things that I’ve had to learn the hard way, which can only be referred to as life lessons that need to be learned the hard way, as there is no other way to learn. I received severe consequences from my own actions. I deserved the consequences I did receive, though my actions has not only impacted my future but has impacted the lives of some family & friendships I had but don’t have any more whether they were directly or indirectly affected. I no longer speak to any members in my family because that’s what is best for me. I also don’t have friends in my life at all anymore, as there isn’t anyone who I class as a real, true & genuine friend. I have people I talk to that I class as real, true, genuine & unique that I consider as just people & nothing more but looking for the same thing as I. That’s a special life partner whom you can share everything with & not have any doubts but get along majority of the time without fights or big blow up arguments that just get out of hand. I’m specific with that due to my own experiences & actions that’s happened to me. My actions are very serious & I can’t take any of it back even if I wanted to I just can’t. I’ve learned so much more about myself & people in general from my own actions that I wouldn’t have learned any other way but the hard way. I now know how to effectively deal with my emotions but also accept & find suitable solutions to problems in great detail more than I could have ever imagined. My actions were so severe that it took me a long time to help myself but also accepting it in order to move on. I don’t regret my actions as I’ve learned so much from them that I otherwise wouldn’t have learned the key skills that I have now. If I didn’t do the actions I had done, alternative actions could have been much worse & the consequences even more severe which is why I don’t have any regrets. Since coming to Horizon Clubhouse I have been able to be a little more open & willing to meet people & work myself into forming some future friendships if I wanted to. I’m more confident than I used to be & I’m hopeful that my new skills I’ve learned from my own actions helps me not just to build some friendships but also to not be concerned about what people may think of me or say about me. I think this step with being part of Horizon Clubhouse for however long I need this for will get me to that good, helpful & steady place wherever I choose to live, as this is just another step to get me to that place I want to be in life & remain forever.

Facebook Update Alison Fairleigh / 2 December 2015

We have reached 1000 Likes on the MIFNQ Facebook Page! If you haven’t already liked or shared our page with your friends, please do so and please leave a review our services.

www.facebook.com/MIFNQInc

Jeremy Audas, Kerri Harris & Margaret Sleeman celebrating our Facebook milestone

PeerZone 2016 Support Course For Mental Health

PeerZone – For people with mental illness Interactive Counselling available Modules are three hours each COST IS FREE

PROGRAMS STARTING 4th FEBRUARY 2016 BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL For all enquiries and expressions of interest please contact Glenda at MIFNQ:

Phone: 07 4725-3664 Email: gblackwell@mifnq.org.au

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Queensland Early Transition To The NDIS www.ndis.gov.au / 1 September 2015

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will be available in Townsville, Charters Towers and Palm Island from January 2016 What is the NDIS? The NDIS is a new way of providing individualised support for people with an impairment or condition that is likely to be permanent, or a developmental delay that affects their ability to take part in everyday activities. The NDIS is being implemented by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). The NDIS is being introduced in stages, because it’s a big change and it is important to get it right and make it sustainable. How does the NDIS work? The NDIS takes a flexible, whole-of-life approach to working with participants, their families and carers, to develop individualised plans. The NDIS provides participants with more choice and control over how, when and where their supports are provided. It also provides certainty that they will receive the support they need over their lifetime. The NDIS works to connect participants with community and mainstream supports. The NDIS also funds the additional reasonable and necessary supports to help participants pursue their goals and aspirations, and participate in daily life. Helping people to build their social and economic participation requires the NDIS to work closely with community organisations to identify opportunities for people with disability. In Queensland, there are many well-established community organisations who will be important in helping people with disability prepare for the NDIS. They will also play a vital role in assisting people with disability to achieve their goals. Early transition to the NDIS in Queensland The early transition sites cover the Local Government Areas of Townsville City, Charters Towers Regional Council and Palm Island Aboriginal Shire. Around 1600 people are expected to be eligible for the NDIS in the early transition sites, with up to 600 of these people expected to receive their funded packages by 1 July 2016. The remaining 1000 eligible people from the early transition sites will receive their funded packages from July 2016. How will the early transition work? From January 2016, the NDIS will be made available to eligible children and young people under 18 years of age living in the areas of Townsville and Charters Towers. All eligible people residing on Palm Island aged under 65 years of age will also begin to be covered by the NDIS. Initially in Townsville and Charters Towers the NDIS will support children, young people, their families and carers through community engagement forums, building links with mainstream and community supports and, for some people, assistance with access and planning. Existing Commonwealth and statebased services and supports will continue until eligible people start their plan with the NDIS. Who can access the NDIS? Children and young people under 18 years of age living in the Local Government Areas of Townsville City and Charters Towers Regional Council. People aged under 65 living in the Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Local Government Area. To access the NDIS people must: 

live in a district where the NDIS is available;



meet the age and residency requirements; and

 meet either the disability or early intervention requirements. More information visit www.ndis.gov.au/qld 1800 800 110* 8am to 5pm (AEST) Monday to Friday (*1800 calls from fixed lines are free. Calls from mobiles may be charged).

RFDS Greenvale Visit Philippa Harris / 7 December 2015

Staff members Kylie Stretton and Philippa Harris in Greenvale for the Royal Flying Doctor Field Day.

Locals from Greenvale and District attending the RFDS field day at the Three Rivers Hotel

Looking on from the mural, Stan Coster and Slim Dusty who wrote and sang the ballad bearing the Hotel’s name

The Black Dog and other Mongrels; the title and props for Philippa Harris’s presentation at the RFDS Field Day.

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Cyclone Season Preparedness townsville.qld.gov. 2015

“Coffee & Conversation for Carers” - 2016 Glenda Blackwell / 3 December 2015

Coffee and Conversation Developing El Niño conditions could see fewer cyclones hit North Queensland this year but residents are being urged to be prepared in case of another Larry, which devastated Innisfail in 2006, an El Nino year. The category four cyclone damaged 10,000 homes, coming just before a weak El Nino winter. The Bureau of Meteorology seasonal outlook is predicting there will be fewer cyclones and fewer land crossing this season, as typical of El Nino conditions. Preparing your emergency kit - can you survive three days? Before the cyclone season you should make every effort to prepare yourself and your family by having your personal Emergency Plan in place and your Emergency Kit stocked and ready to go. Use this checklist when packing or updating your Emergency Kit. It is vital you prepare an airtight and waterproof kit before the cyclone season arrives. Essential Items for your Emergency Kit Three day supply of food and water Battery operated radio Battery operated torches First Aid Kit Mobile phone and charger Clothes and bedding for your household Medications, insect repellents and sunscreen Preparing Your Pantry Kit It is up to each of us to take care of our needs and those of our families. We buy insurance for our home, our car and our lives but something as essential as adequate supplies of food, water and critical items are often overlooked. Visit the Pantry List on Queensland Health's website and ensure you have the recommended items set aside in the event of a disaster. Important Notes  Store your emergency kit in a convenient place known to all of the family.  Keep items in airtight, waterproof containers.  Update your kit regularly, at least at the beginning of the cyclone season in November.  Check and replace batteries regularly.

Emergency Contact Numbers All Emergency Calls .................................................................................000 Townsville Local Disaster Management Group ............................1800 738 541 SES ..................................................................................................................13 25 00 Qld Police Service (Police Link) ..........................................................13 14 44 Qld Ambulance Service ..........................................................................13 12 33 Qld Fire & Emergency Service .............................................................000 Townsville City Council ..........................................................................1300 878 001 Ergon Energy ..............................................................................................13 22 96 Ergon (Loss of Supply & Emergencies) .............................................13 16 70 Origin Energy (Gas Emergencies – Leaks Only) ............................1800 808 526 Telstra ..........................................................................................................13 22 03 Optus .............................................................................................................13 13 44 Townsville Hospital & Health Service ..............................................4433 1111 Dept of Transport & Main Roads (Road Closures) .......................13 19 40 Translating & Interpreting Service ...................................................13 14 50 For more information visit www.Townsville.qld.gov.au

When: Starting Thursday 28th January 2016 Thereafter: Last Thursday of each month Where: MIFNQ, 59A Cambridge Street, Vincent (Cnr Cambridge & Palmerston Streets)

Time: 9.30am to 11.30am

RSVP: Phone 4725 3664 Or email admin@mifnq.org.au

Support Towers

Charters

Glenda Blackwell / 3 December 2015

Do You care for someone with a mental health issue? Do you Live in Charters Towers? Psychologist Glenda Blackwell from MIFNQ Townsville is now available one day per week in Charters Towers for counselling for the families and carers of people who have a mental health issue. There is no cost for this service When: Fridays 10.00am to 3.30pm Where: 37 Ryan Street, Charters Towers For Bookings: Phone (07) 4725 3664 Mobile 0408 585 979 Email: gblackwell@mifnq.org.au

Page 12 of 20

Christmas Day Lunch

Christmas Fast Facts Ann Spadinger / 9 December 2015

forteachersforstudents.co.uk

☃ Did you know that the song ‘Jingle

Bells’ was written in the American town of Massachusetts by James Lord Pierpont? It was originally sung to celebrate Thanksgiving, not Christmas!

☃ Officially, there is still a law in

Britain which makes it illegal not to attend church on Christmas Day. It also states that you cannot use a vehicle to travel to the church. Of course, even though this law still exists on paper, it is no longer enforced.

☃ Until

1939, Rudolph (the rednosed reindeer) was known as Rollo.

☃ Did you know that in the United Kingdom, there is an old wives’ tale that says that bread baked on Christmas Eve will never go mouldy?

☃ The inventor of strings of electric

Christmas lights got the idea from the string lights used in telephone switchboards in the late 1800s.

☃ In

England, Christmas celebrations were banned from 1644 until 1660 by an Act of Parliament. Some politicians thought that Christmas was a wasteful festival and the celebrations were against Christian beliefs.

☃ In the Middle Ages, housewives

spread rosemary on the floor at Christmas time, so that the leaves would release a fragrant scent when stepped on and crushed.

☃ The first-ever nativity scene was

set up in a cave by Saint Francis of Assisi in Italy around 1224. He had to gain permission directly from the Pope before he could proceed.

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Australia’s Mental Health Plan Contains ‘Potential Pitfalls’

Curlews At Cambridge Street

www.uq.edu.au/news / 4 December 2015

Margaret Sleeman / 20 November 2015

The Australian government’s action plan for mental health contains “significant potential pitfalls”, according to a University of Queensland mental health services expert. Dr Michelle Denton from the UQ School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work said while media coverage had been largely positive, the government’s response to the National Mental Health Commission (NMHC) report required a more critical review. “There are at least two very concerning aspects of the government’s response,” said Dr Denton. “First is the intention to move away from so-called ‘old models’ of face-toface delivery of services. “While innovative use of technology has a place, there is significant evidence to suggest that human relationships in mental health and support are vital, and that is where recovery happens. “This is unlikely to occur to any significant degree in on online Dr Michelle Denton environment.” Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull told parliament that the Federal Government spent $10 billion each year on mental health treatment and there was a need for services to be individualised. “It is absolutely vital that we deliver mental health services in a manner that is agile, flexible and modern and uses 21st century technology.” Mr Turnbull said. Dr Denton, who previously led Queensland Forensic Mental Health Service, said an individualised approach was important but she was doubtful how effective a restructure would be if funds were merely redirected away from face-to-face services, without additional funding being committed. Her second concern with the government’s response was the absence of a plan to grow the mental health nursing workforce. “The NMHC report estimated there is an immediate shortage of 1000 mental health nurses in Australia,” Dr Denton said. “The projected shortfall is 5000 nurses by the year 2025.” “Rather than addressing how to grow the workforce, the government response recommended major expansion of services delivered by existing mental health nurses. “The troubling question is where will these extra nurses with advanced and specialised skills come from to fulfil increasing expectations when existing requirements are not being met?” Dr Denton said the nursing shortage was complex and multi-layered, with a range of contributing factors that required a comprehensive evidence-based workforce strategy and plan.

Since moving into our new building at Cambridge Street, Vincent, there has been a “curlew couple” wandering around the grounds. A few weeks ago one of our staff members noticed one of the curlews sitting tightly on a nest in one of the garden beds near our car park. The nest was so well camouflaged that it was easy to walk right past without noticing it was there.

If you look closely at the centre of the picture above, you can just make out the curlew on the nest. A few weeks later we were surprised to see the two adults with a fluffy little chick. The parents are always with the baby, which is now almost as tall as they are! It’s lovely to see them in different parts of the grounds and not a day goes by without a staff member giving an update on where and what the curlews have been up to! It’s a privilege to share this space with our native inhabitants.

The curlew family

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Cairns’ $10 Million Mental Health Facility Welcomes First Residents

cairnspost.com.au / 24 November2015

Recovering mental health patients have started moving into a new $10 million facility in Cairns that will aid their transition from hospital care to independent living. The Cairns Community Care Unit in Manunda was yesterday opened to the public, offering a first look at the 20-bed service that will support some of the region’s most vulnerable and at-risk residents. It provides a recovery-oriented transition for adults with mental illness, allowing them to live independently in single units but still have access to around-the-clock psychosocial and clinical care. Cairns MP Rob Pyne welcomed the opening of a facility he said was long overdue. “What we’ve experienced in the past is people leaving the hospital not having support and having to be readmitted,” he said. “This is going to be great to allow people leaving the hospital setting to transition into the community with much The Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health lower levels of support.” Board Acting Chair Carolyn Eagle, Member for The CCU was funded by Cairns Rob Pyne and Neami National CEO Arthur the Commonwealth Papakotsias at the official opening of the $10 million Cairns Community Care Unit on Monday. Government, with the PICTURE: Anna Rogers Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service to cover operating costs and residents to pay $224 a fortnight. The CHHS has partnered with psychosocial health and rehabilitation support provider, Neami National, to run the facility. Neami National chief executive Arthur Papakotsias said about 20 people, including clinicians, would staff the CCU. “There’s been a number built in Queensland and I think this one is particularly unique because its approach will introduce more of a social model of health,” he said. “It will be more holistic, it will be a partnership between a non-government organisation providing recovery-oriented services and clinicians ensuring the right clinical treatment occurs for the individual as well. “I like to think of it as ‘step down’ program, people stepping down from hospital into the community. “For a lot of people, they find that transition very hard. They haven’t been prepared adequately; they’ve been in hospital for a long time. “For some people, their symptoms are still very bothersome. “This allows us to assist people in a homelike environment where they can develop their skills, their confidence and competencies in a whole lot of different areas.” Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Board acting chairwoman Carolyn Eagle said residents were expected to stay for between 1-2 years, with the need for more units to be assessed into the future. “Twenty residential units is absolutely a perfect first step and it is very favourable for the community to now have this,” she said. “In terms of the needs going forward, I think we’re at a point where we need to understand what the needs are at the moment, how effective this is and then we can consider that as part of longer term planning at the hospital board.”

Supporting MIFNQ There are many ways that you can support us and the work we do at MIFNQ. If you haven’t done so already, why not become a member. Membership is free and an application form is on the back page or you can join online at our website. Volunteering is another way you can make a valuable contribution. We always have lots of opportunities for volunteers to make a difference to our services and programs. You may like to volunteer with administration tasks, assist with our extensive library, are a handyman or assist with our program courses which can range from reading, music, cooking, arts and crafts and a whole lot more. Many of our volunteers find they can receive as much themselves as they generously give.

Partnerships/Sponsors You might also consider becoming a business partner or sponsor of the Fellowship. Our dedicated staff put in many hours of unpaid work to enable us to provide the best service we can in the community. Business partnerships allow us keep the corporate services department running effectively and efficiently while allowing us to plan for future growth and the ever increasing demand for services. And donating to MIFNQ online is easy. Online Donations You can make secure online donations through the Give Now website through this link www.givenow.com.au/mifnq

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Mental Health Blueprint: Promoting Technology To Close Treatment Gap For Mental Issues In Australia www.ibtimes.com.au / 1 December 2015

The Turnbull government has recently announced its support for the innovative digital mental health technologies under Australia’s new Mental Health Blueprint. The blueprint recognises the potential contribution of technology to improve the lives of people with mental health problems and reduce the treatment gap in the country. Estimates show that over 3.6 million people experience mental ill-health every year. However, only 35 per cent of Australians diagnosed with a mental illness are capable to access necessary health services for their condition, indicating a significant treatment gap for mental illnesses in the country, the health-tech company, Healthshare, said. Therefore, the Australian government sees the significant benefit from using online mental health interventions. Healthshare believes that digital services could help people suffering from depression and anxiety as effective as face-toface sessions. “The Mental Health Blueprint recognises the power of technology to help people’s mental health and reduce the treatment gap for people accessing help,” said Healthshare CEO, Rami Weiss, in a statement. The company has recently launched an app, called Connect, to allow people communicate with a qualified Australian therapist through a messaging platform. Weiss noted that the app does not replace traditional counselling, but it could help new technologies promote more accessible mental health support to people. A recent survey, released in November, indicates that technology is leading rapid shifts in social norms. Deloitte’s Mobile Consumer Survey 2015 shows that instant messaging has been widely used than phone calls by 18- to 24-yearolds. The use of instant messaging by people over the age 45 has also increased to almost 70 per cent in 2015, and it is expected to grow further. “Technology is rapidly changing how we communicate,” said Alysha Casey, a clinical psychologist and Healthshare’s clinical director. “Texting has become a primary communication method. Therapy needs to engage people in a relatable way.” Healthshare’s app, Connect, uses technology to deliver treatments to people who are not yet ready to attend a face-to-face therapy. Casey added that some patients may want to remain anonymous, unable to travel, or just need help in a new way. “If technology is how people engage, then we need to integrate it into our approach,” she said. “Connect provides anonymity, convenience, and high quality support at a lower cost than face-to-face therapy.” People who can access Connect include those experiencing depression, anxiety, workplace issues, addiction, eating disorders, relationship issues, stress management and sexual difficulties. Previous research suggests that text therapy can be an efficient and effective means of therapy. A US study also shows that 81 per cent of text therapy users consider it similar or better than other forms of therapy in delivering positive effects, with 98 per cent saying it’s more convenient and 69 per cent found it more affordable. “We no longer have to be in the right place at the right time to access psychological support. We can now reach out from the comfort of our own home and in the moment that we might need it most,” Casey said.

Federal Govermnent: Major Shake-Up Of Mental Health System abc.net.au / 26 November 2015

The Federal Government is preparing to announce a major shake-up of the mental health system, focused on delivering individualised care. It comes after criticism of the current system which only allows mental health patients 10 subsidised psychology sessions a year. Health Minister Sussan Ley said the Government has listened and is committed to delivering a more flexible system. "What we don't have in this one size fits all program-driven approach is an understanding of an individual's mental health needs and that's what I really want to see come through in these reforms," she said. "Everyone deserves an approach that looks after them and I think one of the really exciting things about this package is that it will be individualised." Ms Ley said the arrangem ents would be phased in over three years from early 2016-17, with initial trial sites to be identified during the current financial year (2015-16). "Just like any other chronic disease, mental illness is often complex and requires access to multiple health professionals and support services to address it properly," she said. The Minister said part of the package would see people identified as needing complex care eligible to access a package of services "including comprehensive assessment and care-coordination support; psychological services; mental health nursing; drug and alcohol services; vocational assistance; and peer support". Ms Ley said the changes would ensure people in regional areas got help more quickly. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull will unveil the full package this morning. The announcement will include details about the Government's plan to set up a single phone number that people with mental health problems can call for help.

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Mental Health Risk For New Dads sciencedaily.com / 24 November 2015

Researchers have found anxiety around the arrival of a new baby is just as common as postnatal depression, and the risks for men are nearly as high as for women. Mental health researcher Dr Liana Leach reviewed 43 separate studies and found anxiety before and after a child arrives is just as prevalent as depression, affecting around one in ten men, around half the rate for women. "Men can feel left out of the process, because pregnancy and childbirth are so integrally linked to the mother," said Dr Leach, from The Australian National University (ANU) Centre for Ageing, Health and Wellbeing. "It can compound the problem. They don't seek help, because they think 'it's not so much about me'." The causes of anxiety and depression around the arrival of a new baby are poorly understood. While results from individual studies vary, some studies suggest over 20 per cent of parents suffer from anxiety or depression. The study has been accepted for publication in the Journal of Affective Disorders. "Having a new baby is a time of great adjustment for many parents, and it is normal to be nervous, but anxiety can become a problem when it persists for extended periods and interferes with every day functioning," Dr Leach said. Symptoms of anxiety can include worrying or feeling keyed up much of the time, feeling irritable, and fears for the baby's safety. Physical symptoms can include a racing heart, feeling sweaty, poor sleep and poor appetite. There is good help available and people should in the first instance contact their GP, Dr Leach said. "Couples should be aware of their mental health right from when they realise they are pregnant. Early intervention reduces the severity and duration of symptoms." Risk factors include lack of social support, especially from a partner, financial difficulties and a history of mental health problems. "Health care during the perinatal period should be about the whole family," Dr Leach said. Source: Australian National University

Peer Support Forums Feel like a chat? SANE Australia’s Carers and Lived Experience forums provide peer support for people living with a mental illness or related mental health issues, and for family, friends and other carers. The forums provide a safe, anonymous place for sharing stories and connecting with others. SANE forums also offer a HelpLine available on 1800 18 7263 and HelpLine Chat available on their website. Visit the SANE forums at the following. http://saneforums.org/

His Bright Light – The Story Of Nick Traina Margaret Sleeman / 18 November 2015

By Danielle Steele

"This is the story of an extraordinary boy with a brilliant mind, a heart of gold, and a tortured soul. It is the story of an illness, a fight to live, and a race against death. I want to share the story, and the pain, the courage, the love, and what I learned in living through it. I want Nick's life to be not only a tender memory for us, but a gift to others. . I would like to offer people hope and the realities we lived with. I want to make a difference. My hope is that someone will be able to use what we learned, and save a life with it."—Danielle Steel. From the day he was born, Nick Traina was his mother's joy. By nineteen, he was dead. This is Danielle Steel's powerful, personal story of the son she lost and the lessons she learned during his courageous battle against darkness. Sharing tender, painful memories and Nick's remarkable journals, Steel brings us a haunting duet between a singular young man and the mother who loved him— and a harrowing portrait of a masked killer called manic depression, which afflicts between two and three million Americans. At once a loving legacy and an unsparing depiction of a devastating illness, Danielle Steel's tribute to her lost son is a gift of life, hope, healing, and understanding to us all.

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Calendar of Events – DECEMBER 2015 & JANUARY 2016

DECEMBER 2015 – CALENDAR OF EVENTS DECEMBEARD AUSTRALIA – Raising Awareness of Bowel Cancer SUNDAY

TUESDAY 1 World Aids Day

20 International Human Solidarity Day

6 Carols by

MONDAY

WEDNESDAY

Candlelight, Reid Park, Townsville

23 MIFNQ Office Closes at 4.00pm

THURSDAY 3 International Day of People with Disability

FRIDAY

SATURDAY 5 International Volunteers Day

10 Human Rights Day

12 Poinsettia Day

18 International Migrants Day

25 Christmas Day

26 Boxing Day

31 New Year’s Eve

JANUARY 2016 – CALENDAR OF EVENTS HAPPY NEW YEAR SUNDAY

MONDAY

4 MIFNQ Office Re-Opens at 9.00am

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY 1 New Year’s Day

SATURDAY

25 REACH Wellbeing Group Begins

26 Australia Day

28 MIFNQ Carer’s Morning Tea

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X S

E G

T L

G Z

G K

A J

B R

C Y

U B

D O

P E

P I

E S

U L

O J

B P

N X

Y U

ANGEL

BARBECUE

CHEER

CHILDREN

CRANBERRY

CUSTARD

DECORATIONS

DRINKS

ELVES

FAMILY

FESTIVE

FOOD

GIFTS

INDULGE

JINGLE

JOY

PUDDING

REINDEER

SANTA

SLEIGH

STAR

TREE

TRIFLE

TURKEY

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Mi Networks AUSTRALIA Mi Networks is our promise that we can help connect you to information and services you need. From the moment you walk in the door or pick up the phone, we will welcome you. We will listen and discuss your needs. Many of our staff and volunteers have some understanding of what you are experiencing, in part because they’ve experienced mental illness or have cared for someone living with mental illness. Our Promise A place you are welcome -- We promise to treat you like a person, not a number. We will always have time to listen, question and discuss. We want to know how you are, what you need and how we can help. Peer Support -- Many of our staff and volunteers have lived experience: either living with mental illness or as the carers of someone with mental illness. We are people with similar experiences and we will have some understanding of what you are going through. Relevant Information -- We offer tailored and up-to-date information to assist you, your family members, friends and carers. If we don’t have the information you require, we will help you find it. Community Networks--We are linked into our local networks and have established strong and supportive working relationships with other services. We are connected to a broad range of programs, supports and information. A National Network --We offer a range of one-on-one and group support programs for you, your family members, friends and carers across Australia. If we can’t assist you on-site at one of our locations, we will connect you with someone who can. Personalised Referral -- We will refer you to the services and supports that best meet your needs. This may be a program we offer or it may be provided by someone else. We will support you to find the best fit for you. For further information go to the MiNetworks website or call 1800 985 944

Mental Illness Fellowship NQ Inc Inspire Clubhouse Townsville Horizon Clubhouse The Junction Clubhouse MIFNQInc @CairnsCarersHub @MIFNQ @Roads2Recovery MIFNQInc

www.mifnq.org.au Townsville has an extensive collection of books, DVD’s and CDs, for members to borrow. Feel free to come in and browse around. Library Hours: Monday – Friday 9:00am to 4:00pm

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Membership Application Form I would like to become a member of Mental Illness Fellowship NQ Inc.

 Individual

 Family

 Organization

Please select the category/categories which relate to you:

 Family Member  Health Professional

 Friend  Student

 Someone who experiences mental illness  Other _____________________________

What Program/s are you current enrolled in (if any):

 Day to Day Living  Living Proof

 Early Psychosis  Respite

 MH First Aid Well Ways  Assisting Families Counselling

DONATIONS AND REQUESTS I wish to support the work of the Fellowship and I enclose a donation of:

 $100  $50  $25  Other ____________________________________  Please contact me about a regular contribution  I wish to donate in other ways….__________________________________________________  Please contact me with information about helping the Fellowship through my Will YOUR DETAILS Name: ___________________________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ Phone Home: _____________________________

Work: _________________________________

Fax: _____________________________________

Mobile: ________________________________

Email: ____________________________________________________________________________ Email Consent (please sign) ____________________________________________________________ (This consent allows MIFNQ to contact you via electronic media) Image Consent (please sign) ___________________________________________________________ (This consent allows MIFNQ to use your image on print and/or electronic media)

On completion return to: Email: townsville@mifnq.org.au

Doc ID: MNQ002

Version: 1.10

Fax: (07) 4725 3819

Approved by: Chief Executive Officer

Post: Membership Administration Mental Illness Fellowship NQ Inc PO Box 979 AITKENVALE QLD 4814 Effective date: 16/01/2014

Review date: 16/01/2015

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The Master document is controlled electronically. One printed copy of each version is held for reference in the Quality Management System Master Document File. All other hard copies are uncontrolled.