Marlyn,
We
are all part of many communities – whether it’s the neighborhood where
we live, the organization where we volunteer, or the activities we share
– each and every one of us is connected by place, interests
and values. But what if we weren’t? What happens when a person
experiences isolation because of a chronic health condition that keeps
them out of community?
Paula can address that question. She has been living with a mental illness for over 35 years and has been through the revolving door of our system of care. At first, unaware of the cause of her symptoms, she found herself in the emergency department, then she began the repetitive of cycle of visiting different doctor’s offices with only a prescription and a next appointment. This pattern of treatment left her “incredibly isolated” with “no hope of recovery” – until she found a community-based non-profit and connected to a vibrant, hope-filled group of people dedicated to promoting well-being.
There in community, close to home, she found people who could provide the support that she needed. Paula went from a participant in a peer support group to a part-time administrative coordinator to an accredited program facilitator. Through this progression she regained her health and confidence. Now she spends her time giving back to those in need, completing a different cycle, one of recovery and healing.
We must strengthen recovery, closer to home, for all people experiencing a mental health problem or addiction. Medical treatment can only do so much. Every person needs a space to live and a place to call home to attain and maintain a sense of well-being.
What does a mentally healthy community mean to you?
Write a letter to your local newspaper. Share your vision of recovery close to home.
In the weeks that follow the 2017 BC Election, when our newly elected officials settle into office, your words could help define how better mental health can be achieved in our province.
Paula can address that question. She has been living with a mental illness for over 35 years and has been through the revolving door of our system of care. At first, unaware of the cause of her symptoms, she found herself in the emergency department, then she began the repetitive of cycle of visiting different doctor’s offices with only a prescription and a next appointment. This pattern of treatment left her “incredibly isolated” with “no hope of recovery” – until she found a community-based non-profit and connected to a vibrant, hope-filled group of people dedicated to promoting well-being.
There in community, close to home, she found people who could provide the support that she needed. Paula went from a participant in a peer support group to a part-time administrative coordinator to an accredited program facilitator. Through this progression she regained her health and confidence. Now she spends her time giving back to those in need, completing a different cycle, one of recovery and healing.
We must strengthen recovery, closer to home, for all people experiencing a mental health problem or addiction. Medical treatment can only do so much. Every person needs a space to live and a place to call home to attain and maintain a sense of well-being.
What does a mentally healthy community mean to you?
Write a letter to your local newspaper. Share your vision of recovery close to home.
In the weeks that follow the 2017 BC Election, when our newly elected officials settle into office, your words could help define how better mental health can be achieved in our province.
Sincerely,
Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division
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