The woman who runs a regional education program for people who have family members with mental illness encourages anyone who needs help to get in touch with her.
“Often family members advocating for their loved ones don’t feel heard or don’t feel comfortable talking about what they’re facing,” says Reasha Wolfe of the BC Schizophrenia Society. “Having an understanding ear can sometimes feel like a game-changer.”
Her program offers one-to-one support in advocacy and navigating the mental health and criminal justice systems. She hosts a family support group in person in Nelson and on Zoom that has participants from all over the West Kootenay. She also offers a six-week course called Strengthening Families Together and public education to address the stigma surrounding mental illness.
“We’re getting better at talking about mental health and self-care, yet still there is a huge stigma, particularly around serious mental illness which often goes hand-in-hand with substance use disorder,” she says. “Both of those things have their own stigmas that amplify one another.”
Wolfe has been in the part-time position for about a year and a half while previously a colleague held it for six years. While she receives many referrals through social services and RCMP victim services, she says people can approach her directly. Some people only contact her once, while others need ongoing support.
Both those living with serious mental illnesses and their family and friends can feel isolated, she says, pointing to stories in the media about families facing tragic crises.
“The issues faced are not uncommon. Sometimes it can feel like the whole world is against you, whether you’re the person living with serious mental illness or someone who just loves them.”
All services provided through the society are free.
Wolfe can be reached at 250-505-2976 or 1-888-888-0029 or at [email protected]. You can also access resources at bcss.org.