The Trail Bridge will light up purple tonight, Friday May 24th, to shine a light on National Day of Awareness for Schizophrenia and Psychosis.
Local Educator for British Columbia Schizophrenia Society, Reasha Wolfe, says she hopes lighting up the bridge will generate conversations and help reduce stigma around serious mental illness.
“A big part of it is to let families know that someone cares.” said Reasha Wolf, West Kootenay Regional Educator for British Columbia Schizophrenia Society.
“It can be really isolating to have a loved one with a serious mental illness or to live with serious mental illness and there’s a lot of stigma surrounding psychosis and schizophrenia, and other serious mental illness.”
“So, a part of it is just lighting up the bridge as a symbol that there are both individuals and organizations in the West Kootenay who care, so people are not alone.”
Purple is the theme colour for awareness of schizophrenia and psychosis, and a message to those suffering.
“It is also to raise awareness and raise a conversation that people who experience psychosis are vulnerable.”
“We want to increase public awareness about the need for more supportive services such as complex care and wraparound supportive housing.”
The society chose to approach Trail for the symbol as so many individuals and families from across the West Kootenay who are affected by serious mental illness often find themselves in Trail because the hospital’s Daly Pavilion.
“Trail has many resources and services for people with disabilities, including serious mental illness, and individuals and families who are impacted by experiencing a psychotic episode, or experiencing psychosis.” said Reasha.
“There are more vulnerable people who are visible in trail and also who are not invisible, and their families find themselves there often.”
You can show your support by wearing Purple today, Friday May 24, and draw awareness to the cause.
“Research shows that severe and persistent mental illnesses can be treated and managed with a well-rounded bio-psycho-social-spiritual approach.”
“Many people are able to have a recovery journey and lead meaningful lives with healthy relationships. I want to share this message of hope on such an important day.”
Every Mind Matters Group
Today, BCSS will partner with Castlegar Youth Action Network to host the Every Mind Matters drop in group from 5-8pm.
“We will be hosting a purple tie dye activity while having conversations about serious mental illness and the stigma that impacts those affected by psychosis and schizophrenia.” said Reasha.
This is for our youth aged 12-18 and anyone who has questions can reach out to Zoe at [email protected]
If you are in crisis and require immediate assistance, please call 9-1-1 or contact one of the 24 hour options below:
- Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789 [no area code needed]
- Suicide Prevention Line: 9-8-8
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868
Something going on in your part of the Kootenays you think people should know about? Send us a news tip by emailing [email protected].