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The research in this qualitative case study examined the root causes of individuals experiencing houselessness in rural Manitoba communities, the routes they took to their location(s), the supports and services available within rural communities, and the gaps that existed for individuals experiencing houselessness in rural contexts. Interviews were conducted with three individuals and one couple who had--or were--experienced(ing) houselessness and/or mobility transience, and two service providers who worked with rural and/or vulnerable individuals. Findings from the study highlighted themes and sub-themes in relation to both systemic barriers in rural contexts--including (a) invisibility; (b) availability, affordability, quality, and safety of housing; (c) knowledge, availability and navigation of services and supports; (d) employment opportunities; and (e) issues with the healthcare, education, and justice systems--and personal factors and challenges experienced by individuals--including (a) financial issues; (b) trauma, abuse and violence; (c) grief and loss; (d) responsibilities; and (e) issues related to physical health, mental health, and substance use. The establishment of these themes formed the basis for a series of recommendations for government programs; healthcare; education; justice; municipalities, local businesses-organizations, and non-profits; and rural community members more generally. The themes and findings from the study also led to the creation of a series of educational videos available at www.bucares.ca/publications/rural-homelessness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychiatric nurses often experience associative stigma. Associative stigma may impact psychiatric nurses' views of their professional identity which ultimately impacts the health care of individuals experiencing mental health concerns. Very little research has been conducted on associative stigma in the western Prairie Provinces, including Manitoba. The authors conducted a secondary analysis on the results of an explanatory sequential mixed methods research study to determine if psychiatric nurses in Manitoba are influenced by associative stigma. Three themes were identified through this analysis, specifically: (1) the perception that RPNs are not "Real" Nurses; (2) lack of recognition of specialized training; and (3) working with a stigmatized population. Associative stigma was intertwined in all of the participants' narratives indicating a need to dismantle associative stigma. Strategies to enhance the public perception of psychiatric nursing and decrease associative stigma within the profession are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study regarding the role and uniqueness of psychiatric nursing was conducted with 94 participants from Manitoba, Canada. The primary theme of comprehensive knowledge of mental health, mental illness, and addictions was foundational for the application of the sub-themes of therapeutic relationship, holistic approach, recovery orientation, stigma reduction, and advocacy for change. Values, beliefs, and attitudes towards people with mental illness and addictions need to be instilled in psychiatric nursing students throughout their educational program to provide high quality, compassionate, and safe care. Implications for incorporation of the theme and sub-themes into psychiatric nursing curriculum are described in the paper.