The purpose of this research is to examine the barriers to food security for single adults with mental illness and/or problematic substance use living in supported housing on Vancouver Island. The objectives are: (a) to examine the difference in the level of food security for tenants of supported housing neighbourhoods located in urban versus a rural community; (b) to examine the barriers to food access experienced by the tenants; and (c) to examine which barriers have the greatest effect on the tenants. Using an explanatory case study design, I employ a community-based research method with a social justice perspective as the framework. I have used an explanatory matrix to illustrate the tenant identified barriers to food security and the social structures that affect these barriers. As well, I have made recommendations for integrating food security services and programs into supported housing projects. I have argued that food security is a matter of public health and an integrative approach is needed. I am suggesting a shift on a larger policy scale, to promote the health and well-being of tenants in supported housing. An adequate holistic perspective with an integrated, long-term strategy linking all the determinants of health would result in health-in-all policies. This strategy could reduce the existing health inequities that the tenants in supported housing experience. / Graduate / judy@nahs.ca

For over 75 years the process of (un)forgiveness has been anecdotally understood to play an important role in the Twelve-Step Model of addiction and recovery. However, only very recently have scholars begun to examine the empirical evidence in support thereof. Multiple dimensions and aspects of forgivingness (trait), state forgiveness, and problematic substance use are relevant to one another in the context of addiction and recovery. Models of the association between forgiveness and problematic substance use have been developed, including the conceptual identification of the process of (un)forgiveness as inherent to and/or consistent with evidence-based treatment modalities. Relevant empirical evidence is reviewed and of the 21 empirical studies in the published scientific literature, 90 % show a salutary association. Indeed, forgivingness of self may be the most important dimension of forgiveness for recovery. A future research agenda is proposed and implications for individual, public, and societal health are discussed.

Problematic substance use is a continuing public health and safety concern in Canada, as is in many countries, and is seen as a health issue that can be prevented, managed, and treated through a proper focused response; however, according to recent studies and reports, Canadian youth are experiencing massive difficulty in accessing evidence-based services. The aim of this study is to explore youths’ barriers and facilitators in seeking and utilizing treatment services for substance use problems from service care providers’ perspectives in Ontario, Canada. In addition, treatment models that are organized to fit the needs of youth are also explored. A qualitative study with an inductive approach was used. Data was collected through six semi-structured interviews with youth service professionals working in school or community-based problematic substance use organizations in Ontario, Canada. The obtained data material has been analyzed by thematic analysis. The results showed that professionals viewed harm reduction and motivational interviewing models as designs fitted for youth. Professionals viewed unclear pathways to available services and stigma as external barriers to seeking treatment and shame and guilt and the loss of autonomy as internal barriers. Results viewed open conversation and active participation by schools as facilitators for seeking treatment. Further, professionals viewed insensitivity on behalf of the staff and funding as the main barriers for youth utilizing treatment, while sympathy from staff a major facilitator. This conclusion highlights the need for more open conversation and cooperation with the government and other youth service care professionals to coordinate effective and integrated services available for youth in school and community settings.