October

While an estimated 12% to 20% of transition-age youth (15 to 24 years old) in British Columbia suffer from some form of mental illness, the majority will not seek professional intervention. The reasons for this include a lack of understanding of mental health and how to recognize mental illness, a lack of awareness about where to seek assistance, and the stigma attached to mental illness.

The Northern First Nations Health Partnership Committee has released a document summarizing a comprehensive plan developed with the guidance and direction of northern First Nations community leadership over the past year. The document (Implementing Our Health and Wellness Plan: An Overview) communicates the work of transforming the health system for northern First Nations.

The quality of health care that people receive may be as important as controlling the risk factors--smoking, bad diet, and low exercise--that could lead to cardiovascular disease. These findings were revealed in a recent study conducted by an international team of scientists, including Simon Fraser University health sciences professor Dr Scott Lear.

PAR-BC recently announced the winners of its 2013 Awards of Excellence. Dr Katherine Beadon received the Residents' Advocate Award, given to recognize an individual who advocates on behalf of residents and in doing so improves their well-being. Dr Michelle Linekin received the Dr Patricia Clugston Memorial Award for Excellence in Teaching, given to recognize a clinical faculty for his or her contributions to the continuing medical education of residents.

By Peter Johnson. Victoria: Heritage House,  2013. ISBN 978-1-927527-31-3. Paperback, 312 pages. $22.95.