Western University is hosting a public lecture titled “Unwrapping the Mummy: Physical Therapies and Managing Patient Wellbeing in Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia” on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, from 6:00-7:00 p.m. in Room 3120, Entrepreneurship & Innovation Building.

Robin Baker, PhD, an expert in ancient Near Eastern civilizations, will explore early health practices, including neurorehabilitation and musculoskeletal treatments. Learn how ancient techniques relate to modern physical therapy.

Everyone is welcome to attend!

We are pleased to share an important new report titled “Inequalities in Mental Health, Well-being and Wellness: Social Determinants and Changes Over Time.” This publication, along with its accompanying data tool, offers valuable insights into trends related to mental health inequalities across various outcomes and determinants in Canada.

Understanding Mental Health Inequalities

This report is the first to present social inequality trends in mental health within the Canadian context. Utilizing intersectionality theory as a guiding framework, it combines qualitative and quantitative research to explore how these inequalities have evolved over time.

The findings delve into four key themes critical to understanding the social determinants of mental health:

1. Socioeconomic Conditions: Highlighting how economic factors influence mental health outcomes, this theme emphasizes the importance of financial stability and access to resources.
2. Racism, Xenophobia, Homophobia, and Other Types of Discrimination: This section underscores the negative impact of discrimination on mental well-being, revealing the challenges faced by marginalized communities in achieving mental wellness.
3. Social and Cultural Connection, Support Networks, and Community Belonging: The importance of strong social ties and community support is examined, demonstrating how these factors contribute to better mental health outcomes.
4. Access to, Quality of, and Use of Health Care Services: This theme discusses disparities in healthcare access and quality, stressing the need for equitable health services for all Canadians.

Key Features of the Data Tool

Accompanying the report is a data tool featuring over 15 indicators related to mental well-being, mental illness, and access to mental health care services. Notable indicators include:

• Mean life satisfaction
• Unmet needs for mental health services
• Rates of flourishing mental health

These tools provide a deeper understanding of the mental health landscape in Canada and allow stakeholders to track changes over time.

Informing Policy for Better Health Outcomes

The insights gained from this report and data tool are essential for informing evidence-based health and social policy. By understanding the social and structural determinants of mental health, we can work toward ensuring health and well-being for all Canadians.

An executive summary of the report is available for those interested in a concise overview of the findings. Additionally, stay tuned for a series of infographics that will highlight the key results from each theme, set to be released soon.

For more details, visit the report’s page here.

McMaster University is currently seeking a Health Equity and Social Inclusion Coordinator. This role is an excellent chance for individuals passionate about promoting health equity and addressing social determinants of health.

Position Overview:

The coordinator will work collaboratively with various stakeholders to develop and implement initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes for marginalized communities. This position is pivotal in fostering a more inclusive and equitable healthcare environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and coordinate programs that promote health equity and social inclusion.
• Collaborate with community organizations and stakeholders to identify and address barriers to health access.
• Conduct research and analysis to support evidence-based initiatives.
• Provide support for training and capacity-building activities related to health equity.

Who Should Apply: This position is ideal for individuals with experience in public health, community engagement, and social justice. If you are committed to making a difference and have a strong understanding of the factors influencing health equity, we encourage you to consider this opportunity.

Application Details: For more information about the position, including qualifications and application instructions, please visit the McMaster University careers page here.

We believe that sharing opportunities like this strengthens our community and supports our members in their career aspirations. If you know someone who might be interested, please pass this information along!

Are you passionate about promoting Indigenous health and wellness? Do you have experience in curriculum development, adult education, and a deep understanding of Indigenous cultural safety? The Indigenous Diabetes Health Circle (IDHC) is looking for a dedicated ICS Project Coordinator to join their team on a full-time, 2-year contract basis. This role offers the flexibility to work remotely within Ontario while contributing to meaningful projects that aim to address diabetes prevention and care through culturally safe and trauma-informed approaches.

About the Role: As the ICS Project Coordinator, you will lead the development of four innovative Indigenous Cultural Safety Training modules. These modules will focus on trauma-informed care and will be part of an Indigenous Trauma-Informed Diabetes Care Certificate. Key responsibilities include collaborating with Indigenous Knowledge Holders, Elders, and subject-matter experts, facilitating training sessions, and ensuring the program meets high standards of quality and effectiveness.

Why Join IDHC? IDHC is committed to promoting a healthy lifestyle with a focus on diabetes prevention and awareness, especially within Indigenous communities. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact by developing training that integrates Indigenous knowledge with clinical best practices. Additionally, IDHC values life experience and personal healing journeys, ensuring a holistic approach to both their work and workplace culture.

Application Process: Interested candidates should submit their cover letter, resume, and references by noon on July 27, 2024, via email to IDHC Human Resource Manager at officemanager@idhc.life. IDHC is committed to providing accommodations throughout the hiring process in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

For more details and to apply, visit IDHC’s website.

Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to a meaningful project that bridges Indigenous ways of knowing with modern healthcare practices. Join IDHC in making a difference in the lives of Indigenous peoples across Ontario.