2019 - 2020 Annual Report Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Table of Contents

09 | A Family’s Journey with 30 | CMHA and Ontario Shores Schizophrenia Expand Recovery College

10 | NFS Team Shines Through Eat Well, 31 | Ontario Shores Opens Live Well Program Brain Stimulation Clinic

Story 11 | Hospital Honours Values in Action 31 | Ontario Shores Hosts International Award Recipients Women’s Day Panel

12 | Dr. McGregor Appointed Research 32 | Experiencing Miracles: A personal Chair in AI for Health and Wellness experience with Ontario Shores

14 | Leading the Way in Quality 34 | Ontario Shores Welcomes eCBT Standards for Schizophrenia Through SilverCloud

Quote 15 | Innovative Partnership Between 34 | PizzaForno Finds Home Ontario Tech and Ontario Shores at Ontario Shores

16 | Father Welcomes Support in 35 | Partnership with Wounded Warriors Daughter’s Recovery Supports Public Safety Personnel

18 | Hospital and Foundation Launch 36 | National Recognition for Wellness Save The Living Campaign Programs at Ontario Shores

Data 18 | #MindVine Podcast Hits the Road 39 | Ontario Shores Receives Award of for Bell Let’s Talk Day Excellence in Mental Health

19 | Study Reveals Long Road Ahead 40 | Ontario Shores Named for Awareness of Schizophrenia GTA Top Employer

20 | ‘I was able to find light again’ 41 | ‘I am a whole person with strengths and attributes’ 25 | Celebrating a Century of Care Start / End 42 | Clinical and Financial Data 26 | In Our Minds Art Exhibition at The Robert McLaughlin Gallery Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report 1 Celebrating a Century of Care 05 A Year to Remember

Welcome to the 2019-2020 Annual that connects to mental health Report for Ontario Shores Centre programs and services offered by both for Mental Health Sciences (Ontario organizations. Shores). And, right in our own community, This truly was a year for the ages at Ontario Tech has proven to be a terrific Ontario Shores. partner as we collaborate in the area of innovation in the treatment of dementia It began with our Celebrating a Century through a Clinical Demonstration Unit of Care campaign that was in full swing as well as the joint announcement of and continued through to October 23, an Inaugural Research Chair in Artificial 2019, the day our organization turned Intelligence (AI) for Health and Wellness. 100. Of course, late in the year, partnerships It was an extraordinary time in our and collaboration inside and outside history as we celebrated a milestone our organization became essential that showcased our role in the as we faced the challenge of a global community as well as our dedication to pandemic to contain COVID-19. growth, innovation and excellence. In the midst of a significant challenge The year was also highlighted by we experienced the greatness of partnerships. Ontario Shores as people across the organization prominently lived our Ontario Shores and SilverCloud Health, values to ensure the continuous a global leader in digital therapeutics delivery of quality mental health care for mental, emotional and behavioural while keeping patients and staff safe. health, teamed up to provide patients with SilverCloud Health’s evidence- The 2019-2020 Annual Report based digital mental health program celebrates these stories as well as the as an outpatient treatment option qualities of our people who aspire to for individuals with mild to moderate deliver exemplary care regardless of the anxiety and mood disorders. This challenges presented to them. treatment option is another example of our collective commitment to innovation that reduces barriers and advances mental health care.

Worth noting as well is our relationship with Wounded Warriors Canada, President and CEO Karim which supports Ontario’s public safety Mamdani and Ted Moroz, personnel and their families through Chair of the Board of a joint clinical services partnership Directors. Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Jack Armstrong Thrills Hoop Fans 1 on Eve of Raptors’ Championship 06

On the eve of Game 6 of the NBA Finals, basketball for TSN and NBA TV, earning Ontario Shores welcomed a compelling multiple Canadian Screen Awards for his guest to its Annual General Meeting on work. June 12. Before becoming a broadcast analyst, Before the Toronto Raptors made he spent 10 years as the head basketball history winning their first title in coach at Niagara University, where he franchise history, Ontario Shores received coach of the year honours for welcomed Jack Armstrong, arguably the the 1992-1993 season. Prior to that, he most familiar basketball personality in served four years as an assistant coach Canada. at his alma mater, Fordham University in Bronx, N.Y where he also earned a The long-time Raptors broadcaster was bachelor of arts in history and a masters the keynote speaker where he used in public communications. his love of basketball and lighthearted spirit to inspire those in attendance. “The folks that are here that volunteer (on) the board or folks that are on staff “We play tomorrow night and we here, — yeah you get a paycheque but charter back Friday, and I hope I’m it’s more than that — it’s a calling; it’s a chartering back as an NBA champion,” feeling that you’re making an impact,” he added. he said.

Armstrong has spent more than two decades covering the NBA and college

“I think we’re in the people business. We’re here to help people and we’re here to

Basketball broadcaster make a difference.” Jack Armstrong inspired everyone at Ontario – Jack Armstrong Shores one day before the Raptors won their first NBA championship. Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report 1 A Family’s Journey 09 with Schizophrenia

Kevin and Jane McAllister worked hard a constant state of ups and downs,” says to build a life for themselves and their Kevin. four children. Riley’s journey eventually took him to Like so many families in Durham Region, Ontario Shores and its Complex General their free time was often spent with Psychiatry A (CPG A) unit. In addition their children rushing off to practices, to finding the right medication, Riley games, recitals and school plays as they and his parents participated in Family worked to give their kids everything Intervention Therapy (FIT). they could. “The FIT program was amazing,” says Years later, that hasn’t changed. Jane. “It gave us the tools to support However, the journey they have been Riley and a greater understanding of the on was not the one they expected. illness and how to help manage it.”

A near tragic car accident left Jane What was also helpful were the people. with serious injuries and a long road to While the education, training and recovery. The traumatic nature of her resources were practical components injuries severely impacted the entire that Kevin and Jane felt were essential family, but in particular their teenaged to Riley’s progress, there was also an son, Riley. intangible at play.

“The decline in his mental health was “Staff went over and above to talk to evident shortly after the accident,” notes us and help us any way they could,” Kevin. recalls Kevin. “You can train staff to use a computer or deliver a program, but A star athlete and strong student, you can’t train them to care. The people Riley struggled in the weeks, months looking after Riley cared about both and years following Jane’s accident. him and us.” Living with early onset psychosis and Schizophrenia as a result of trauma, Riley’s recovery journey continues. He’s Riley began to self medicate. healthy, living independently, looking forward school and working toward Throughout his recovery journey, Riley employment. Similar to any chronic and his family have run the gamut of illness, there has been a price their emotions. There were periods when he family has had to pay. was healthy, going to school and able to manage the symptoms of his illness. “Riley’s a great guy,” notes Kevin. “We are There were also periods where he deeply proud of him and the progress struggled to receive the right treatment he has made. We want to support him Jane and Kevin McAllister at the right time. in having a future. We wish the same for with their beloved canine other families living with mental illness.” companion. “There are times when you feel like it’s Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report NFS Team Shines Through 1 6 Hospital Honours Values in Action Eat Well, Live Well Program 10 11 Award Recipients

As part of its Integrated Wellness The NFS Team also compiled their Ontario Shores held its 12th annual Excellence: Program, Ontario Shores launched the collection of new recipes into The Eat Rewards and Recognition event in Jeff MacDonald Eat Well, Live Well Program. Well, Live Well Recipe Book, sourced January to celebrate years of service as Innovation: from various websites and adjusted to well as individuals and teams chosen as CSR/Stores Team Led by our Nutrition and Food Services ensure the food is not only good for recipients of the organization’s Values in (NFS) team, the Eat Well, Live Well you, but tastes good too. Action Awards. Safety: program consisted of a variety of newly FPRU Team created healthy options in our Lakeview Nutrition is an integral component These awards represent the hard work Community: Cafeteria. of creating and sustaining an overall and dedication of individuals who Nutrition and Food Services Team feeling of well-being and this program choose to live the hospital’s values on a The team spent time searching for has provided the opportunity for all daily basis. Respect: recipes and testing and modifying Cafeteria customers to choose healthy Dr. Graciela Kriegel recipes to optimize the healthy food options that nourish and fuel their The 2019 Values in Action recipient are: Leadership: ingredients used in each item. bodies. Leslie Johnston “Great job, excellent selection of a variety of foods representing all food groups. Everyone was excited to get a healthy lunch!”

– Staff Feedback Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Dr. McGregor Appointed Research 1 Chair in AI for Health and Wellness 12

Ontario Shores welcomed the The research will also extend Dr. appointment of Dr. Carolyn McGregor McGregor’s separate and broader as Inaugural Research Chair in Artificial Ontario Shores collaboration to create Intelligence (AI) for Health and Wellness. new approaches to mental illness prevention among public safety Created between Ontario Tech personnel such as firefighters and University and Ontario Shores, the tactical officers. Her previous work with Research Chair reflects Ontario Shores’ the military and police services has leadership in research, education and deployed AI technologies to measure exemplary practice for individuals living physiological responses to work-related with complex and serious mental illness. stress and explore how public safety personnel can learn from the data Dr. McGregor’s appointment to (such as keeping their heart rate and Research Chair contributes to the breathing in ranges that allow them to advancement of health informatics perform at their best). through research in computing and information technology to improve As a Professor with Ontario Tech’s Canadians’ health care and global Faculty of Business and Information health and wellness. Technology, Dr. McGregor is Co-Director of the Joint Research Centre in AI for Specifically, Dr. McGregor will study Health and Wellness between Ontario mental illness prevention and post- Tech and Australia’s University of traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Technology Sydney. She is also Ontario prevention for point-of-care staff (e.g. Tech’s alumna Canada Research Chair in nurses, psychiatrists, etc.) in two ways: Health Informatics.

Predictive AI models will build This collaboration will also create physiological markers to detect when graduate student opportunities, a patient is more likely to become furthering Ontario Shores’ commitment aggressive. to student scholarship and the mentorship of future researchers. The collaboration will promote new Ontario Shores and Ontario Tech look personalized training approaches forward to the evolution of the shared to help mental health-care workers Research Chair and the scientific respond empathetically, therapeutically breakthroughs achieved through their and non-reactively in the face of partnership. non-emergent risk, threats or stressful situations. Understanding their own Dr. Carolyn McGregor personal response will help them will study mental illness pinpoint what they need to work on to prevention and PTSD build their own resilience. prevention for point-of-care staff. Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Leading the Way in Quality 1 1 Innovative Partnership Between Standards for Schizophrenia 14 15 Ontario Tech and Ontario Shores

Ontario Shores partnered with 15 evidence for the care of adults with Leading-edge community-based • Artificial Intelligence (AI): Leveraging healthcare organizations across Ontario Schizophrenia, there continues to be research and remarkable advances in AI with a conversational robot to to lead a Community of Practice as part gaps in services that support these technology are combining to uncover detect and manage behavioural and of facilitating the implementation of individuals. new solutions for dementia care, psychological symptoms of dementia. Health Quality Ontario’s Schizophrenia offering new horizons for patients and Quality Standards at these partnering Evidence indicates it can take up to 17 their caregivers. • Virtual Reality: Introducing organizations. years for research to reach frontline reminiscence therapy through a virtual care. Initiatives such as this Community A partnership between Ontario reality application to promote social The Schizophrenia Quality Standards of Practice can increase the rate at Tech University (Ontario Tech) and connectedness. for care in hospitals and in the which this evidence-based care can be Ontario Shores has launched a Clinical community include a series of 11 to implemented to ensure greater quality Demonstration Unit (CDU) at Ontario • The Wellness Nordic Relax Chair: 15 statements that are actionable, and consistency across the healthcare Shores to explore a wide range of Providing an individualized multi- measurable and grounded in the best system. innovative treatment options. sensory experience, including music available evidence. The statements therapy, rocking, tactile stimulation/ help patients and families know what Partners will learn more about how To help individuals with dementia low back vibration, contoured design they should expect around medications to implement the Schizophrenia remember events, people and places and deep pressure stimulation via a and psychotherapies, including family Quality Standards in their respective from their past, research teams from weighted blanket. intervention therapy. organizations effectively, share both organizations are combining knowledge and further collaborate with expertise to explore the potential of • Bright Light Therapy: Providing Ontario Shores first implemented the partners across the province. high-tech tools such as conversational prescribed exposure to light five to 30 Quality Standards in 2016 and since robots, reminiscence therapy using times brighter than typical office lights that time has developed expertise in The 15 partners consist of 13 hospitals virtual reality, and a multi-sensory to promote calmness, happiness and its application of the Standards with and 2 community service providers: wellness chair. improved sleep. an ongoing focus on monitoring, • Health Sciences North quality improvement and sustainability • Joseph Brant Hospital The CDU is part of the Geriatric • Personalized Music Interventions: in delivery of the most effective • Kenora Canadian Mental Health Dementia Unit at Ontario Shores and Using parametric speakers to provide treatments for Schizophrenia. Association Branch together, the teams are implementing individualized music therapy, which • Lake of the Woods District Hospital bold new technology-enabled solutions can evoke memories from the past and Through the creation of a Schizophrenia • Mackenzie Health for dementia care including: increase communication. Quality Standards Spread Initiative • Markham Stouffville Hospital Community of Practice, Ontario • Northumberland Hills Hospital Shores is sharing its implementation • Ottawa Canadian Mental Health strategies, key learnings and tools to Association Branch help other organizations with their • Peterborough Regional Health Centre implementation of these treatment • Southlake Regional Health Centre approaches to individuals with • St. Joseph’s Care Group (Thunder Bay) Schizophrenia across Ontario. • St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton • Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe Centre mental illness that is associated with • Waypoint Centre for Mental Health premature mortality and high disease Care burden. Despite the well-established • Windsor Regional Hospital Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Father Welcomes Support 1 in Daughter’s Recovery 16

Charles Guthrie understands challenges. Through the FRC, Charles learned about wellness tools and participated in multi- The now retired 61-year-old zookeeper family Dialectical Behaviour Therapy is 14 years clean and sober with a firm (DBT). understanding of his own recovery. “It’s certainly helped me manage my However, navigating the healthcare own well-being while being there for system and caring for his high my daughter,” affirms Charles. school-aged daughter who lives with generalized anxiety, depression, social During her time at Ontario Shores, anxiety, emotional dysregulation and Charles has noticed a significant Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, has been progress in his daughter’s mental among the biggest challenges of his life. health.

Subject to bullying with high anxiety “She’s had remarkable improvement,” and self esteem issues, the signs of he says. “It’s still early days and she still mental health issues rose to the surface faces challenges, but the improvement in Grade 7. is there without question.”

“I was freaked out, I was scared,” recalls Throughout this journey, Charles has Charles in those elementary school days undertaken considerable education when his daughter’s symptoms began related to mental health. There are presenting. multiple facets of physical health which can impact a person’s mental well- Through the adolescent program being. As a father, Charles wants to at Ontario Shores, Charles and his provide the best possible environment daughter were able to get the help they for his daughter’s recovery. However, he needed. In addition to treating her knows he must also look after himself. mental health issues, Charles was able to access support through the Family “Sometimes I feel like I am supposed to Resource Centre (FRC), a service that be her nutritionist, pharmacist, nurse supports system navigation as well as and sleep therapist,” says Charles. “I the mental wellness of caregivers. understand that I can’t be all of those things. I have to be her father.” “I felt immediate sanity here,” says Charles. “I started using (the FRC) as my anchor.”

“Families and caregivers have a real Charles Guthrie has valued challenge in seeking help for loved ones mental health support because they feel overwhelmed, scared for families as he cares for and confused.” daughter. Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Hospital and Foundation Launch 3 Study Reveals Long Road Ahead Save The Living Campaign 18 19 for Awareness of Schizophrenia 2 During Mental Illness Awareness Month individuals with lived experience, In honour of its 100th anniversary, “This confirms what we already knew,” last October, Ontario Shores and the powerful images and provocative Ontario Shores sought the opportunity noted Karim Mamdani, President and Ontario Shores Foundation for Mental taglines to attract audiences to the to gauge society’s view of this chronic CEO of Ontario Shores. “People living Health launched its fourth annual issues impacting mental illness. brain disease, which, according to the with schizophrenia are misunderstood, awareness campaign. Schizophrenia Society of Canada, affects isolated and ignored.” Ads were featured in Durham Region 300,000 Canadians. Building on the success of the previous on transit buses and shelters, radio “If schizophrenia was a chronic year’s campaign, the Save The Living stations and the four Durham Go Train An Ipsos poll conducted on behalf physical illness, people living with it (www.savetheliving.ca) campaign stations. The ads were also featured of Ontario Shores revealed that 57 would be treated with compassion, featured a bold new theme and design on billboards in key areas of Toronto, a per cent of Ontarians believe people understanding and respect,” said and a strong call to action to capture strong presence in the print and digital with schizophrenia have multiple Mamdani. “With treatment, people attention and encourage people to editions of the Toronto Star and a robust personalities, a symptom not associated living with schizophrenia can lead a make a donation. online and social media presence as with the chronic illness. meaningful life. As a society we need to well. be caring, empathetic and encouraging With the tagline, ‘Save the Living’, “It’s hurtful how little people know of treatment and support.” the campaign featured a roster of about schizophrenia,” notes Candice McAlister, a Bowmanville, Ont. resident The poll also indicated one in three whose brother has lived with the (34 per cent) wouldn’t be willing to disease for more than 15 years. “At the hire anyone with schizophrenia while time, it was a popular belief that only 38 per cent said they wouldn’t rent an those people who had a bad childhood, apartment or room to someone with or experienced abuse or trauma would the disorder. Moreover, a full one in ten develop a mental illness, especially one (10 per cent) agreed with the idea that like schizophrenia. This was not the people with schizophrenia should be case for my brother, but it made me kept away from society, completely. feel more isolated because I didn’t want others to think that about my brother or “Today, my brother has completed his family.” high school credits, has a car, drives, works part time, and he’s happy,” #MindVine Podcast Hits the Road The stigma associated with says McAlister. “He’s come a long way schizophrenia remains prevalent even compared to those darkest times. as society’s literacy around mental It’s important that people start to for Bell Let’s Talk Day health improves thanks to social understand, empathize and encourage, awareness campaigns and corporate and it’s critical to know that things can On Bell Let’s Talk Day, Wednesday, Chair of Bell Let’s Talk, actor Dillon fundraising efforts. However, when it get better.” January 29, 2020, the #MindVine Casey, former goalie turned lawyer comes to schizophrenia, 61 per cent Podcast hosted by Chris Bovie and Kevin Bailie and former Hollerado of Ontarians admit they wouldn’t date Darryl Mathers was on location at the frontman Menno Versteeg. and 55 per cent say they wouldn’t Ministry of Health at 777 Bay Street, know how to act around someone with Toronto, to have conversations about schizophrenia. mental health.

Among the guests were The Hon. Christine Elliott, Ontario Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Mary Deacon, Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report

1 After a few months, daily tasks started to which I never thought I would be ‘I was able to find light again’ to get a little easier with the help of my able to overcome such tragedy in my recreational therapist, peer support, life, but I did. I was able to find the light 20 doctors and one particular nurse. A again that seemed only a few months student nurse took the time out of ago to be a twinkle of lost hope. I am a It’s hard to believe that only one year bed sleeping or lost in my never-ending every one of his shifts to talk to me and testament that shows with immediate, ago I was preparing myself to be thoughts. encourage me to get out of my room. proper care I found my purpose again discharged from Ontario Shores. It still We talked about how much I used to when I felt everything was against feels like a lifetime ago. Never would On November 10, 2018 while living love playing games, especially cards. me. This would not have happened if I have ever imagined that I would also confined in my internal prison, I With that in mind, every chat with the it wasn’t for Ontario Shores and all the become affected with mental illness received a phone call from my sobbing nurses ended with a game of cards. It wonderful supporters I had in my life. and spend my days in a hospital as an sister telling me that our brother just was the first time during my illness that I inpatient. passed away from suicide. He was actually enjoyed doing something that I I now try to focus on my found by passerby only a few hours loved to do in the past. accomplishments. I have graduated My first signs of mental illness came before. I was completely deranged. from PHP, continue to volunteer as about in my first year of high school Soon daily games on the unit an adventure leader at WindReach as I was experiencing anorexia, all After our brother’s funeral, I was progressed to my desire to start leaving Farm, and take courses to further my because it took one classmate to tell referred to Ontario Shores as an the unit more often, whether it was education in mental illness. I recently me I gained weight, which changed outpatient. There I met my wonderful to attend recovery college classes have even been able to return to work my perception of myself forever. Mild psychiatrist and clinician. As weeks or go to work my weekly shift as a while I also plan to follow new dreams depression and anxiety soon followed passed my promise to attend my weekly volunteer at the hospital. As my health and career opportunities. I now am as I was the one who discovered my appointments soon became more improved I set out a goal to start a daily certified by Ontario Peer Development brother the first time he tried to commit seldom. I just did not care anymore and exercise regime with the help of my rec Initiative (OPDI) to be a Peer Support suicide. Witnessing such a traumatic didn’t want to go on with my life. therapist. I would spend mostly days Worker and wish to spend the rest event changed me; however, at the time either walking, going to the gym or of my days helping others with my I was able to cope and pull through my My biggest fear was to become an playing basketball. Everyday I became experiences and advocating for mental darkest days and become healthy again. inpatient at a hospital so I went to my a little stronger and soon began to work illness, to reduce the stigma. That was the first time our family was meeting on my own will. Little did towards a discharge date. introduced to a life with mental illness. I know that I would not be leaving Things happen for a reason and I Ontario Shores for the next five months While still an inpatient at Ontario believe learning from our experiences My father passed away in 2018 and my as I was admitted to a Complex General Shores, my mother devastatingly passed shapes who we become tomorrow. For life began to plummet into a downward Psychiatry unit in January, 2019. away. I spent a few weeks at home to me I know my brother and mom would spiral. After years of managing my help with funeral arrangements and be proud of my accomplishments thus depression and anxiety, it resurfaced The first several weeks were by far to spend time with my family during far and would never want me to give up. and returned with full force. the hardest I ever had to face. I spent this unbelievable tragic moment in I open my eyes every morning and get most of my time in my room and only our lives. Soon after I returned to the out of bed for them. It first started with horrible anxiety to came out for my mandatory meals and hospital to finish out my days as an the point that I was so nauseous and meetings with my doctors. As soon as inpatient and transition towards being I could not eat or sleep for months. I I was admitted, I met with my team of By Cindy Gasior, and outpatient. Ontario Shores was the then started to become obsessed with health professionals and a schedule was Contributor best place for me to be as I had a whole the most foolish little things, which created for me to follow on a weekly team of health professionals to help usually included anything to do with my basis. It consisted of at least two meals me through my grieving process and to health or my appearance. a day, a shower every other day and make sure I did not spiral again into the participated in at least one activity a big black hole called depression. The anxiety quickly soon turned into week on the unit. During my transition major depression as I feared leaving the into being an inpatient I had the great With a discharge date set, I began house and became very anxious with privilege of meeting a psychologist attending my Partial Hospitalization even dealing with the responsibilities where I had weekly meetings to have Program (PHP) courses just before of my everyday life. For the next seven discussions and set out goals for the leaving. I was determined to succeed months I spent my days and nights in following week. in my goal of becoming an outpatient Celebrating a Century of Care October 23, 2019 Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report 9 25 Celebrating a Century of Care After a year-long celebration, Ontario country musician Alli Walker to our Shores officially turned 100 on October hospital to help us celebrate 100 years 23, 2019. while also talking hockey, music and mental health. In addition to appearing In planning our 100th Anniversary on the #MindVine podcast, Burke celebrations, it was important that greeted patients, staff and visitors, everyone in the organization have the while Walker performed songs from her opportunity to get involved throughout most recent album. Walker is not only the year. a musician, she is also an advocate for mental health and delivers honest and Starting with our Ambassadors of Hope hopeful messages through her music. program, we began the conversation about mental health by attending On the big day, in the space formerly events and speaking engagements. used to house our History Exhibit, The Ambassadors of Hope, a mixture Ontario Shores unveiled its new patients, staff and community Heritage Lounge to provide patients, members, participated in community staff and visitors an area to interact projects and assisted us in telling the while also preserving elements of the story of Ontario Shores. organization’s proud history.

The celebrations continued throughout We also proudly unveiled our 100th the year as Ontario Shores hosted Food anniversary coffee table book that Trucks and Farmers’ Market Vendors features a collection of stories and for our 100 Days to 100 Years kickoff photos capturing the remarkable event and unveiled our commemorative journey of this hospital over the course t-shirt, which is dedicated to the history of its history. of Ontario Shores and its impact in the community. The day ended with our Juried Art Show Reception, which honoured the work On October 23, we were fortunate to of local and patient artists and their welcome former hockey executive and interpretation of mental health. current broadcaster Brian Burke and

Ontario Shores celebrated its 100th anniversary with a series of event on October 23, 2019. Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report In Our Minds Art Exhibition at 1 3 Hospital Hosts Century of Care Fair 26 27 In honour of its 100th Anniversary, Employees, patients, families, volunteers The Robert McLaughlin Gallery Ontario Shores hosted a ‘Century of and the community visited the grounds 2 Care Fair’ on September 21, to celebrate for a family friendly carnival-style It was a magical evening as guests shared stories of their lived experience 100 years of providing mental health event. The day featured a BBQ lunch attended the opening installation of with mental illness, explored Painters care in the community. along with bouncy castles, games, face the ‘In Our Minds’ exhibit at the Robert Eleven, and participated in the painting and entertainment. McLaughlin Gallery (RMG). exhibition development. The resulting exhibition, In Our Minds, includes The partnership with RMG, Ontario personal reflections and highlights Shores and Ambassadors of Hope the power and importance of art to Jordon Beenen, Ian Hakes, and Lori drive community conversation about Lane-Murphy to develop a community- mental illness. This partnership has driven Painters Eleven exhibition was been one of meaningful exchanges, driven by the 100th Anniversary of relationship building, openness, and Ontario Shores. enlightenment—a journey that has left a lasting impression on participants and Throughout this collaboration, curated staff alike. by Sonya Jones, Jordon, Ian and Lori

100th Anniversary T-Shirts

Ontario Shores proudly introduced a commemorative ‘Celebrating a Century of Care’ T-Shirt given to every staff member at Ontario Shores in honour of its 100th anniversary.

Designed by Communications and Public Affairs, the shirt featured elements of the hospital’s physical characteristics, both past and present, in addition to icons representing the diverse disciplines and roles key to the day-to-day operation of our organization.

In the 100 days leading up to October 23, staff were encouraged to participate in ‘Wear it Wednesdays’ by sporting their Century of Care T-Shirt. Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report 1 29 Letter to Ontario Shores How do I even begin to explain how I would like to give a special shout out much this place means to me? to two of my Peer Support Specialists, James and Keith. Both of them have Ontario Shores changed my life for the helped raise my confidence. Their better and it continues to do so. kindness and acceptance helped me feel like I finally belonged. My journey began in 2012 when I started as an outpatient in Vocational That’s how Recovery College truly Services. makes me feel. That I truly belong.

A few years in, a wonderful lady named For years my only safe place I felt was Lori Meyers became my Vocational at home with my family and the special Instructor. Lori is more than just my needs students I work with. Out in instructor. She is someone I can count society I often felt like an outsider, but on and always look to for support. She’s not at Ontario Shores and Recovery a hard worker and has a heart of gold. College. I have learned and seen that truly no one is alone and everyone has Lori also introduced me to Recovery their own struggles. College, a wonderful program that has changed my life for the better in so I have met so many friends at Ontario many ways. Recovery College has not Shores and most importantly I have only helped me better understand my learned to love myself even though it mental illness but it has helped with can be hard. I even use what I learn at my social skills too. All of my teachers, Recovery College in my everyday life. which include both Peer Support Specialists and Recreational Therapists, Recovery College has truly been my safe have been amazing. They are all kind, haven and I am so proud of how far I supportive and understanding. I am so have come. I will always be proud to be thankful for all of them. a part of Ontario Shores and I cannot wait to continue my recovery journey here. By Kayla Beaton, Contributor

Recovery Tree created by Recovery College participants. Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report CMHA and Ontario Shores 1 3 Ontario Shores Opens Expand Recovery College 30 31 Brain Stimulation Clinic 2 The Canadian Mental Health Association deliver courses and materials. The Ontario Shores’ new Brain Stimulation of short magnetic pulses directed (CMHA) and Ontario Shores have result is a supportive environment Clinic is comprised of two services - at the brain to stimulate nerve cells. collaborated to support the expansion where people come together with Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) that Patients are able to return to their and creation of 20 new mental health friends, family members and health we currently offer and a new treatment regular activities immediately following and well-being learning centres—or care providers to gain knowledge, learn option, repetitive Transcranial Magnetic treatment, which lasts about three to “recovery colleges”—in the next year. new skills and explore new roles for Stimulation (rTMS). eight minutes. themselves. As leaders in the recovery college field rTMS is a non-invasive treatment option Ontario Shores is happy to offer in Canada, Ontario Shores and CMHA Together, CMHA and Ontario Shores for those who have treatment resistant this evidence-based treatment for have opened a total of 12 centres in are working with local CMHA branches, depression and are unable to receive those struggling with depression or Canada over the past three years. regions and divisions, and other mental ECT but would benefit from a similar other mood disorders in their home health and community organizations type of treatment. It delivers a series community. These free, welcoming, in-person to share best practices, encourage community learning centres are peer-to-peer collaboration and improve modelled after successful sites in the evaluation and information sharing U.K., where more than 70 recovery across the country. colleges now educate the public on skills that promote good mental health Together with subject matter experts, and well-being, as well as recovery from including individuals with lived mental illness. experience, CMHA and Ontario Shores will develop and deliver a country-wide Recovery colleges offer free courses evaluation strategy, and a suite of tools that are informative and interactive and resources that meet international in a learning environment designed guidelines and best practices. to promote and respect equity and diversity. There is a focus on bringing Ontario Shores has also implemented together the expertise of both mental other recovery-based practices such health professionals and people with as recovery measurement through Ontario Shores Hosts lived experience of mental illness or Recovery Assessment Scale and mental health problems to create and Recovery Plans of Care. International Women’s Day Panel

In honour of International Women’s Day in March, Ontario Shores held a panel of women in leadership.

The panel included Dr. Karima Velji, Vice President, Clinical Services at Ontario Shores; Justine Lee, Clinical Manager, Geriatric Psychiatry Unit at Ontario Shores; Tracey Dell, Vice President Operations, Ontario East and Northwest at Shoppers Drug Mart Inc. and was moderated by Carolyn Ellis, Co-host of Ellis and Archer Morning Show, KX 96. Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report

support helping me transition into a significantly helps me to release stress, 2 new area of work. They’ve helped me and assists me to retain a level of Experiencing Miracles: A personal understand my rights as an employee, tolerance, momentum and strength develop a return to work plan and to care for myself independently. As 32 provided a number of employment- an introvert, it’s been a phenomenal experience with Ontario Shores related workshops that encourages way for me to learn how to come out me to focus on returning to work of my comfort zone, make new friends, with the self-assurance I am capable develop skills and hobbies and continue Miracles are a change in perception. of PHP was like needing a dentist and and prepared to make a successful to have support from staff who The reality for a caterpillar is much seeing one once all my teeth began transition. Recovery College is an encourage me to develop into the best more different than the butterfly who falling out, except it wasn’t my teeth extraordinary program providing a version of me I can be. transcends the caterpillar’s limitations. falling out, it felt like I was losing my wide variety of courses throughout the Once you experience the world with mind. What is so incredible about PHP year, such as, Art Café, Tai Chi, Yoga, My experience with Ontario Shores wings, your sense of reality is forever is the sense of community and purpose. Bibliotherapy, Learn to Run, Journaling has been nothing short of miraculous. changed. For a caterpillar who has no I had a reason to get up each day. I had and PeaceLove to name a few. I got Three years ago today, I only knew wings, the idea of flying is impossible. a safe place to go to, to heal, to learn connected to the program by talking of the stigma around it; the people Caterpillars experience growth and and find the wisdom to overcome my with Keith, a Peer Supporter who who are there are insane, crazy, and change and suddenly one day they darkness. The program shone a light continues to be a pillar of support by dangerous. On the contrary, Ontario will erupt from a shell that kept them on how important exercising good checking in with me and helping me Shores is my safe haven, a welcoming isolated in darkness; the impossible mental health is to do every day, just stay focused on maintaining wellness place to be, filled with understanding, becomes possible and a miracle has like eating healthy foods, working out and overcoming adversity. hope and compassion. With the help of taken place. The caterpillar developed and brushing my teeth are fundamental valuable programming, useful resources wings and became a butterfly and now for my overall good health. I loved Keith encouraged me to prepare my and knowledgeable and caring staff has a whole new perspective. attending classes during the day with own recovery college class, “Self-Help members throughout, Ontario Shores other people who were also struggling 101” so that I may share information gave me the opportunity to transform In the fall of 2017, I was praying for with mental illness because I didn’t feel I have learned studying self-help despair, anger and sadness into joy, a miracle, constantly. I was severely so alone. The classes I attended were a books. Participating in classes gives optimism and courage. anxious, depressed and feeling entirely calm place to open up, ask questions, me something to look forward to, defeated by life. I had a job working in a share my experience as well as learn field where I felt passionate and joyful, from my peers. but after unfortunate circumstances, I ended up crying my eyes out in my Gradually, as I attended two or three doctor’s office explaining my thoughts classes a day, Monday to Friday, and and feelings of utter dread and despair. with the help of my clinician Heather, I My psychiatrist advised me to take began to shed limiting beliefs, release time off work. With nowhere to go thoughts that no longer served me, and nothing to do, a big part of me and I started to see hope, experience By Lisa Johnson, thought about wasting away, laying connection like never before, and feel Contributor in bed day after day. With the help as though for the first time in my life, of Durham Mental Health Services, my life-long struggle with mental illness a case manager referred me to The was being treated with compassion Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) at and understanding. I began to learn Ontario Shores. As it turns out, it was an life-changing skills and tools to help even bigger miracle than I could have me overcome worrisome thoughts, hoped for. I was so deeply depressed - I build confidence, learn resiliency, and look back now and think it’s a miracle become mindful. I’m alive writing this today. Today I continue to work with Lisa created this inspiring The impression I had after my first day Vocational Services and I am enrolled piece through the Art Cafe in PHP was, “Why isn’t anyone teaching in Recovery College classes. Vocational at Ontario Shores. this stuff in kindergarten?” Being a part Services provides me with stellar Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Ontario Shores Welcomes 1 1 Partnership with Wounded eCBT Through SilverCloud 34 35 Warriors Supports 2 SilverCloud Health, the global leader hospital’s treatment capabilities,” said in digital therapeutics for mental, Karim Mamdani, president and CEO of Public Safety Personnel emotional, and behavioural health, and Ontario Shores. Ontario Shores have rolled out digital Ontario Shores and Wounded Warriors health programs offered by both mental health programs for anxiety and “SilverCloud Health enables our Canada have partnered to support organizations. Additionally, Ontario depression. organization to deliver the highest Ontario’s public safety personnel Shores and Wounded Warriors Canada standards of eCBT through a safe (police, fire, paramedics, correctional will be working together to support Ontario Shores now offers patients and evidence-based approach where workers, dispatchers) and their families. training that will enhance knowledge SilverCloud Health’s evidence-based successful outcomes are achieved using of best practices, evidence-based digital mental health programs as best clinical practices and the latest In May, 2019, Wounded Warriors Canada support and a greater understanding of an outpatient treatment option for advances in research.” and Ontario Shores announced the the unique needs of our public safety individuals with mild to moderate creation of a joint clinical services personnel. anxiety and mood disorders. The As a public teaching hospital, Ontario partnership to connect public treatment option will be available to Shores provides a range of specialized safety personnel to mental health “This is our first partnership that brings the adolescent, adult, and geriatric assessment and treatment services to programs and services offered by both together two mental health service populations. those living with complex and serious organizations. providers with the goal of expanding mental illness. Adding electronic access to clinical programming for “Today’s resource demands on the CBT (eCBT) is part of Ontario Shores’ “This partnership brings together Ontario’s First Responders and their mental health system are massive, strategic development of a stepped programs and services from both families,” said Scott Maxwell, Executive which is why Ontario Shores is always care model, allowing the institution organizations to better support first Director of Wounded Warriors Canada. seeking opportunities to leverage to expand the breadth and reach of responders and their families,” said “When it comes to mental health, no digital solutions to augment our services for its patients. Ontario Shores President and CEO Karim one organization will ever be the 100% in-person services and extend our Mamdani. “We are pleased to take this solution for the needs of our public first step to ensure the unique culture safety personnel and the families. of first responders is reflected in the Partnerships are vital and we are services and care our organizations extremely proud to collaborate with provide.” Ontario Shores.”

PizzaForno Finds Home The partnership connects clients, where at Ontario Shores appropriate, to specialized mental

In December, Ontario Shores welcomed under three minutes. At the tap of a their newest food offering, PizzaForno. digital screen, customers can choose A revolutionary automated pizza from six premium menu offerings, all oven (a.k.a. pizza-vending machine), of which are made fresh by hand, with PizzaForno is located in the Lakeview an authentic Italian approach, using all- Cafeteria offering patients, guests and natural, locally sourced ingredients. staff freshly baked pizza on demand.

As PizzaForno’s first-ever expansion into a health-care location, PizzaForno is now the only 24/7 food option, serving up fresh, artisanal pizza in Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report National Recognition for Wellness 1 Programs at Ontario Shores 36

In November, 2019, Ontario Shores Ontario Shores strives to create and proudly accepted the Canada Awards sustain a psychologically healthy and for Excellence – Platinum level safe workplace. recognition for Excellence Canada’s Mental Health at Work® Framework. They highlighted progress in a number of areas including the Excellence Canada oversees a national Integrated Wellness Program, program that recognizes organizations Leadership Development Strategy, Safe from all industries who demonstrate Workplace Committee, robust learning organizational excellence using their opportunities, employee engagement best-in-class standards. initiatives, the Eat Well, Live Well program and new psychotherapy Excellence Canada visited Ontario services for staff. Shores a few months ago to conduct a comprehensive review of the Participating in this national program organization’s progress since receiving provides Ontario Shores with a clear gold level recognition in this category focus for advancing its mental health in 2017. The Assessment team met in the workplace efforts to ensure with the Senior Management Team, continued alignment with national best managers, frontline staff and related practices. departments to learn about how

“Recognition such as this only inspires us to continue in our relentless pursuit of excellence for everyone impacted by

Ontario Shores proudly mental health issues.” accepted the Canada

Awards for Excellence – Karim Mamdani, President and CEO - Platinum Level for Excellence Canada’s Mental Health at Work Framework. Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report 1 Ontario Shores Receives Award of 39 Excellence in Mental Health

Ontario Shores is the proud recipient of The award celebrates better outcomes the 2019 Award of Excellence in Mental for patients through its application of Health and Quality Improvement from evidence-based quality improvements the Canadian College of Health Leaders in mental health and addictions. (CCHL). This is the third time Ontario Shores has been recognized by CCHL Ontario Shores is committed to with such a prestigious award. significantly improving the quality of care and outcomes for patients through Ontario Shores was honoured for the introduction of additional quality their enhanced recovery-oriented standards for depression, regular audits practice and outcomes resulting in and reviews. increased patient and staff safety and the implementation of a valid and CCHL celebrates leadership and reliable measurement tool for recovery. recognizes success of organizations Among the highlights of the award like Ontario Shores as they continue to submission was the development of a build capacity to advance healthcare, staff and patient co-designed program enhance safety and increase efficiency to support the empowerment and to provide seamless care. engagement of patients.

Artwork by Lisa Johnson, Contributor Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Ontario Shores Named 1 1 ‘I am a whole person with GTA Top Employer 40 41 strengths and attributes’

Ontario Shores was among select year that offers a variety of healthy I am in no way the picture of recovery, to see that I am much more than my organizations named one of Greater food options in its cafeteria such as whatever that looks like. I have not illness and I deserve to pursue the things Toronto Area’s Top Employers for 2020 smoothies, salads and hot entrees. ‘recovered’ from my mental illness like a that make me feel alive and balanced. following a competition that evaluated Ontario Shores also launched a new person can recover from surgery or the That I am worthy and good enough. employers on several criteria including program to provide psychotherapy flu or a car accident. I am now, however, That I am more capable than I think I am. work atmosphere, vacation benefits, services to staff. so much better equipped with the tools training and development, financial and and skills now to manage my mental I have since disclosed my illness to my health benefits, physical environment, This award also follows Ontario Shores’ illness to not only get through to the 13-year-old son. This was a huge step for and community involvement. recent celebration of providing 100 next day but to actually live and enjoy me; one that I never thought I would do years of specialized mental health care. life again. I have Ontario Shores to thank before coming to Ontario Shores. And It is the fourth straight year Ontario for this. I’m so glad I did. I can honestly say this Shores has been named one of the In its 14th year of recognizing employers has brought us much closer. GTA’s Top Employers. who foster a culture that creates and My recovery journey has been long and maintains a desirable workplace, the emotional with many bumps, detours I have been living with depression and Ontario Shores has become known for competition has become a benchmark and smooth patches along the way. anxiety since I was a teenager and my its positive workplace culture, employee for organizations striving for excellence. There are days I feel like I haven’t made last episode is what brought me to engagement initiatives, wellness any progress at all and other days I feel Ontario Shores although this was the programs, and opportunities for growth Ontario Shores and its fellow recipients proud of my accomplishments and last place I wanted to be. I wasn’t ready and development. were officially unveiled in Toronto and growth; days I feel so much hope. to go back to work and I knew I didn’t are featured in a special magazine in want to stay home and sleep all day. Most notably, Ontario Shores launched The Globe and Mail. My recovery requires persistence and Feeling defeated, empty and hopeless, an Eat Well, Live Well program this past resilience. It requires self-compassion I decided to attend PHP. I felt ashamed and non-judgement. It requires as I walked through the doors of Ontario boundaries and trust. But most of all, Shores, as I was once employed as a it requires way less shame and self- Recreation Therapist there and now I stigma: changing my core belief of not was “on the other side.” being good enough and being ‘broken’ to believing I am worthy and deserving I now have greater insight into the of happiness despite having a mental circumstances and events that brought illness (and an autoimmune disease). I me to Ontario Shores and the changes used to define myself by my illness. I I need to continue to make to improve was ashamed of my illness. So much so my mental health, including prioritizing By Rhonda Whittaker, that I hid my illness from most people: my self-care and working towards more Contributor only my immediate family and a few balance in all aspects of my life. close friends knew. I used to think this was all I was; that there was nothing I have experienced so much hope and more to me and that I had nothing compassion throughout Ontario Shores, substantial to offer. I was afraid of being in every department, including PHP, judged and of people seeing me as less Recreation Therapy, Food Services, than. I was afraid people would only see Communications, Volunteer Services, my illness and not see me. Family Resource Centre and Vocational Services. I have developed some close Ontario Shores helped me to see myself friendships through PHP and I am as a whole person, with many strengths grateful for my experience. I will never and attributes. The program helped me forget it. Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, 2019 - 2020 Annual Report Clinical and Financial Data 1 Age on Admission Revenue by Type 42 12 - 18 8.3% $154,468,000 19 - 34 27.5% Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care* 89.6% 35 - 54 23.8% Patient and Ancillary 8.3% 55+ 40.3% Investment Income 2.1% Median Length of Stay 58 Days Expenses by Type $143,419,000 Diagnosis on Discharge Compensation 83.2% Schizophrenia and Psychotic Disorders 48.1% Other Supplies and Expenses 13.6% Neurocognitive Disorders 21.4% Drugs and Medical Gases 2.1% Depressive Disorders 8.6% Rent 0.2% Bipolar and Related Medical and Surgical Disorders 7.1% Supplies 0.3% Building Amortization Net 0.6%

Working Capital ($10,167,000)

Photo by Riley McAllister Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences 700 Gordon Street Whitby, Ontario L1N 5S9 905.430.4055 ontarioshores.ca/100