New Westminster City Hall will light up in purple today in recognition of National Schizophrenia and Psychosis Awareness Day.
The British Columbia Schizophrenia Society, a provincial non-profit organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by schizophrenia and severe and persistent mental illness, is marking National Schizophrenia and Psychosis Awareness Day (May 24) with the launch of #StandAgainstStigma, a campaign to address misconceptions and stigma surrounding schizophrenia through education.
"For far too long, schizophrenia has been shrouded with misconceptions and stigma, leading to profound misunderstandings about the illness and those living with it," BCSS CEO Faydra Aldridge said in a news release. "With the launch of our campaign, we’re determined to challenge stereotypes that have unfairly burdened individuals, families and caregivers to foster a society where schizophrenia is met with hope instead of shame and discrimination.”
According to the society, schizophrenia and other severe and persistent mental illnesses can impact anyone – they do not discriminate.
“While the prevalence of schizophrenia is often reported as 1 per cent, the BCSS released a paper (based on Canadian and international studies) outlining a recommendation to adopt 1.8 per cent as the schizophrenia prevalence rate in Canada, with the understanding that it could be higher,” said the news release. “Undiagnosed schizophrenia and under-reporting are prevalent due to widespread stigma, narrow definitions of severe and persistent mental illness, and the exclusion of certain populations.”
In honour of National Schizophrenia and Psychosis Awareness Day, landmarks throughout B.C. are set to illuminate in purple, including: New Westminster City Hall; BC Place; the BC Legislature; Science World; the White Rock Pier; and the World’s Largest Hockey Stick in Duncan.
The British Columbia Schizophrenia Society this symbolic act highlights the province's dedication to mental wellness and its continued support for individuals and families dealing with schizophrenia and severe and persistent mental illness.
“While we’ve come a long way in how we talk about brain illnesses, such as schizophrenia, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and bipolar disorder, we still have a long way to go,” Aldridge said. “Through education and awareness, we hope to foster a more compassionate and supportive society for all those affected by severe and persistent mental illness and their family members.”
In addition to lighting up landmarks, the BCSS will screen the documentary Insanity: The Mental Health Crisis by director, Wendy Hill-Tout, and host a panel discussion recognizing National Schizophrenia and Psychosis Awareness Day. Information and tickets for this event, which is taking place at the Rio Theatre on Saturday, May 25 from noon to 2:15 p.m., are available online.
For more information about the BC Schizophrenia Society (BCSS), severe and persistent mental illnesses and psychosis, National Schizophrenia and Psychosis Awareness Day and/or information on how to donate to support BCSS’ programs and services, visit www.bcss.org.
