Arrowhead Clubhouse Society is celebrating a number of informative events around the community in recognition of Mental Health Week, May 7 to 13.
On May 7 at 3 p.m., Erica Gatz, regional educator for the BC Schizophrenia Society (BCSS), is speaking at the Sechelt Public Library, along with Donna Motzer, also of the BCSS. Their topic is Anosognosia: Lack of insight and how to respond to it. This presentation explores the difficulties families encounter when trying to help someone with a serious mental illness who does not believe there is anything wrong.
On May 8 and 9, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Sumac Place information booth in Sunnycrest Mall in Gibsons, share coffee and snacks and hear personal stories. You will be entered into a raffle when you fill out the “bust a stigma” questionnaire. May 9 from noon to 2 p.m., the public is welcome at Arrowhead for an open house and barbecue, 5554 Inlet Ave. in Sechelt.
May 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., an information table will be set up at Trail Bay Centre in Sechelt, hosted by the Schizophrenia Society. And on May 11, look for the information booth at Sunnycrest Mall, also from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Also on May 10, at 11 a.m., will be a panel discussion at Sechelt Public Library. Members of Arrowhead will share their stories and experiences at Arrowhead – who it serves and what it is.
On May 12 at 10:30 a.m., Gatz and Motzer present a second talk at Gibsons Public Library on Strengthening Families Together: Education and support for family and friends of individuals with mental illness.
Arrowhead is also hosting a public awareness event about mental wellness set for June 2: a comedic theatrical performance by Victoria Maxwell with a pre-performance networking session. Watch for details soon.
For more information, see mentalhealthweek.ca.
– Submitted by Penny Brown
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