People in the Comox Valley can access a program through referrals from primary care practitioners that can help to cope with feelings of depression or anxiety.

Bounce Back: Reclaim your Health is a free service from the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA).

Originally designed to support people living with chronic physical conditions, Bounce Back is now available to any adult with low mood or anxiety. CMHA branches offer the program in over 17 districts across B.C.

Bounce Back focuses on self-help skills to improve emotional well-being. The program offers two forms of help. The first is a DVD which provides practical tips on managing mood, healthy living, building confidence and activities, and problem-solving. The second is a guided self-help program to build on the techniques from the DVD, with telephone support from a “community coach.” The whole program can be completed in several weeks and is done from the comfort of a person’s home.

The two-year pilot program, first launched on Vancouver Island in October 2008, is funded provincially by a $6-million grant from the Ministry of Health, and is being rolled out in close collaboration with primary care practices.

For a full list of communities where the program is running, see www.bouncebackbc.ca or call 1-866-639-0522. CMHA estimates that close to 50,000 people will be able to access Bounce Back interventions. For more information on Bounce Back, visit www.bouncebackbc.ca and talk to your family doctor.

CMHA is a charitable association which promotes the mental health of all and supports the resilience and recovery of people experiencing mental illness through public education, community-based research, influencing of public policy, and direct services and supports.

CMHA BC Division has more than 55 years of service to British Columbians and is part of a network of 20 CMHA branches across B.C. and part of a national voluntary association that is Canada’s oldest mental health charity.

— Canadian Mental Health Association